How Much Gravel for a Shed Base?
Quick Answer
A gravel shed base should extend about 1 foot beyond the shed on each side and be 4 to 6 inches deep. For a 10×12 shed, the 12×14 gravel pad at 4 inches needs 2.07 cubic yards (about 2.9 tons) of crushed stone.
- 10×12 shed (12×14 pad, 4 in): 2.07 cubic yards / 2.9 tons
- Extend pad 1 ft beyond shed on all sides
- Use 4–6 inches of #57 or 3/4-inch crushed stone
- Gravel cost: $85–$145 for a typical shed base
Formula
Multiply the pad area by depth in inches, then divide by 324 to get cubic yards. Multiply cubic yards by 1.4 to convert to tons for crushed stone.
Step-by-Step Calculation
- 1
Pad size (10×12 shed + 1 ft each side)
12 × 14 = 168 square feet
- 2
Volume at 4 inches
(168 × 4) ÷ 324 = 2.07 cubic yards
- 3
Convert to tons
2.07 × 1.4 = 2.9 tons
- 4
Cost estimate
2.9 tons × $30–$50 = $87–$145
Gravel for a Shed Base by Size (4-inch depth)
| Shed Size | Gravel Pad | Cubic Yards | Tons | Cost* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8×8 | 10×10 | 1.23 | 1.7 | $51–$85 |
| 8×10 | 10×12 | 1.48 | 2.1 | $63–$105 |
| 10×12 | 12×14 | 2.07 | 2.9 | $87–$145 |
| 12×16 | 14×18 | 3.11 | 4.4 | $132–$220 |
*Crushed stone at $30–$50 per ton delivered. Use 6 inches of depth on soft or poorly drained soil.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of gravel is best for a shed base?
Use angular crushed stone such as #57 or 3/4-inch clean gravel. It compacts and locks together for a stable, well-draining base. Avoid rounded pea gravel, which shifts under weight.
How deep should a gravel shed base be?
Four inches is fine for small sheds on firm, well-drained soil. Use 6 inches for larger sheds or soft ground. Compact the gravel in layers and level it before setting the shed.
Should a gravel shed pad be bigger than the shed?
Yes. Extend the pad at least 1 foot beyond the shed footprint on every side. This keeps runoff away from the shed floor and prevents the edges from washing out over time.