Calculate tons, cubic yards, and total material cost for any asphalt project — driveways, parking lots, or roads.
Tonnage, volume & cost in seconds
Results are estimates. Add 5–10% waste for real-world conditions. Contact local suppliers for current pricing.
Asphalt quantity is calculated by volume first, then converted to weight (tons) because suppliers sell it by the ton. The standard formula uses a density of 145 lb per cubic foot for hot mix asphalt.
For a 30 ft × 20 ft driveway at 4 inches deep:
Volume = 30 × 20 × (4÷12) = 200 ft³
Tons = (200 × 145) ÷ 2,000 = 14.5 tons
| Type | Best For | Cost/Ton |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Mix (HMA) | Driveways, highways | $100–$150 |
| Warm Mix | Cool-weather projects | $110–$160 |
| Cold Mix | Pothole patches | $80–$120 |
| Porous Asphalt | Drainage areas | $120–$180 |
Prices as of 2026. Regional pricing varies — contact local suppliers for exact quotes.
At 4 inches thick, a 1,000 sq ft driveway needs approximately 15–17 tons of asphalt. At 3 inches thick, expect around 11–13 tons. Always add a 5–10% waste factor to your order.
One ton of asphalt covers approximately 40–80 square feet depending on thickness. At 3 inches thick, 1 ton covers around 80 sq ft. At 6 inches thick, it covers about 40 sq ft.
We use 145 lb/ft³ (2,322 kg/m³), which is the industry standard for hot mix asphalt (HMA). You can adjust this in the calculator if your supplier uses a different specification.
Most residential driveways use 3–4 inches of compacted asphalt. In cold climates or areas with heavy vehicle traffic, 4–6 inches is recommended for better durability and crack resistance.
No. This calculator estimates material cost only. Delivery fees, labor, equipment, excavation, and base prep are separate and vary by contractor and location. Always get a detailed quote from your paving contractor.
Real projects always have some variation — uneven grade, edge overfill, compaction loss, and spillage can add up. A 5–10% waste buffer helps ensure you do not run short mid-project, which is costly and delays the job.
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