Asphalt Calculator
Calculate the tons of hot-mix asphalt needed to pave a driveway or parking area, the unit asphalt is typically bought and sold by.
About the Asphalt Calculator
Unlike concrete, which is ordered by the cubic yard, hot-mix asphalt is bought and delivered by the ton. This calculator converts your paved area and compacted thickness into a volume, then applies asphalt's density to find the tonnage you need to order.
Formula: Area = Length × Width; Volume = Area × (Thickness ÷ 12); Tons Needed = (Volume × Density) ÷ 2000
Compacted hot-mix asphalt typically weighs 140-150 lb per cubic foot, though the exact figure depends on the aggregate blend and mix design your supplier uses — check your asphalt plant's specific density for the most accurate order. Residential driveways are commonly paved 2-3in thick over a compacted gravel base, while heavier traffic areas need a thicker wearing course and often a separate binder layer beneath it.