Use this free Asphalt Calculator to size your job accurately. Add one or many areas, choose Imperial (ft/in) or Metric (m/cm), set thickness, density, waste, cost per ton/tonne, and truck capacity. The tool outputs total area, volume, required tons, loads, and material cost.
Asphalt Calculator
in
lb/ft� (typ. hot mix ? 145)
$ per US ton
Round tons & cost to nearest increment.
| # | Length | Width | Qty | Area |
|---|
Results
Quick Coverage (Area per Ton/Tonne)
Based on current density. Helpful for sanity checks.
| Thickness | Area per Ton/Tonne |
|---|
Note: This tool assumes compacted thickness. Density varies by mix & temperature. Add an appropriate waste/contingency percentage and always verify with your supplier/engineer.
What This Asphalt Calculator Does
The calculator converts area and thickness into volume, then uses density to estimate the mass of hot-mix asphalt required. It supports both Imperial and Metric workflows, multiple rectangular sections, waste/contingency, and optional cost and truck-load planning.
How to Measure Your Project
- Break the site into simple rectangles (driveway legs, parking bays, apron, etc.).
- Measure length and width of each rectangle in your unit system.
- Choose a realistic compacted thickness for your intended use (see below).
- Enter density or use the default, then add a waste percentage to cover edges, irregularities, and handling loss.
Typical Thickness Ranges
- Residential driveway: ~2�3 in (50�75 mm)
- Light parking: ~2.5�3.5 in (64�90 mm)
- Heavier traffic / commercial: ~3�5+ in (75�125+ mm)
Final thickness depends on subgrade, base layer, climate, and loading. Confirm with a local engineer or your asphalt supplier.
About Asphalt Density & Units
Hot-mix asphalt is frequently estimated at around 145 lb/ft� (~2320�2350 kg/m�). Actual density varies with aggregate and compaction. You can edit the density field to match supplier guidance.
Estimating Cost & Truck Loads
Enter your material price per ton/tonne to calculate total material cost. For logistics, add a typical truck capacity (e.g., 18�22 tons) to see how many loads you�ll need. Consider haul distance, plant opening hours, traffic, and paving crew pace.
FAQ
Is the default density accurate?
It�s a common planning value. Always verify with your specific mix design.
Should I enter loose or compacted thickness?
Enter compacted thickness. If you only know loose depth, estimate compaction and convert to compacted thickness.
How much waste should I add?
Many projects use 5�10%, but complex edges or handwork may require more.
Can I model irregular shapes?
Approximate them by adding multiple rectangles that cover the shape, or compute area externally and use the �Single total area� option.
This tool is for planning only�confirm final quantities with your contractor or engineer.