How to use
- Measure the length and width of the area receiving one asphalt layer.
- Enter the finished compacted thickness, not an uncompacted truck or paving depth.
- Replace the density with the value for your selected mix when available.
- Choose an extra allowance, then review the tonnage and density cross-check.
How the estimate is calculated
Net cubic feet = length × width × thickness in inches ÷ 12. Multiplying that volume by density in lb/cu ft gives pounds; divide by 2,000 for short tons. The order estimate applies 1 + extra percentage ÷ 100 before converting weight. The displayed area-depth factor equals density × 9 ÷ 12 in pounds per square yard per inch.
Example: a 50 ft × 12 ft area at a compacted thickness of 3 in has 150.0 cu ft, or 5.56 cubic yards. At 145 lb/cu ft with 0% extra, it weighs 10.88 short tons. The equivalent factor is 108.75 lb per square yard per inch.
Density expressed two ways
| Density input | Equivalent lb / sq yd / in | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| 145 lb/cu ft | 108.75 | 145 × 9 ÷ 12 |
| 148 lb/cu ft | 111.00 | 148 × 9 ÷ 12 |
| 150 lb/cu ft | 112.50 | 150 × 9 ÷ 12 |
The first value is a commonly used planning figure for initial estimating, not a required mix density. The other rows illustrate the same geometric conversion and are not specifications for particular mixes. Supplier data should replace a generic density assumption.
Area-depth tonnage and multiple courses
If your estimator provides pounds per square yard per inch, multiply square yards by thickness in inches and that factor, then divide by 2,000. This is algebraically the same as the volume method above. A state-specific factor should be used only for the material and estimating context it describes.
For a base course and a surface course, run the calculator separately with each course’s compacted depth and density. Add their tonnages afterward. Do not assume both layers use the same density, and do not confuse an aggregate base below the asphalt with an asphalt base course.
Common mistakes
- Feet and inches must stay in their labeled fields; a 3-inch lift is entered as 3.
- Do not apply an extra allowance again if the tonnage supplied by your contractor already includes it.
- A US short ton and a metric tonne are different weights; use the unit shown next to the result.
Sources
Planning context: Toolgrit asphalt paving guide, a commercial estimating guide. The 145 lb/cu ft default is an assumption to replace with mix-specific data. All table conversions follow volume arithmetic.
Related calculators
- Gravel Calculator — separate aggregate layers
- Concrete Slab Calculator — compare a concrete project takeoff
Frequently asked questions
Is 145 lb per cubic foot exact for my mix?
No. It is a starting assumption. Aggregate, binder, and compaction affect density; obtain the value used for your selected mix.
Why show pounds per square yard per inch?
It allows you to compare an area-depth estimate with a volume-density estimate. The two use the same measurements expressed differently.
Does the volume include extra?
The displayed compacted volume is the measured geometry. The tonnage includes the extra percentage you entered.
Can I combine different paving layers?
Estimate each course separately using its own depth and density, then add the weights in the same unit.