Asphalt Calculator (Tons for Paving)
Calculate hot-mix asphalt tonnage needed for driveways, parking lots, and small paving jobs.
What this calculates
Asphalt is ordered by the ton from local plants — tonnage depends on area, compacted thickness, and the mix's density. Standard hot-mix is ~145 lb/ft³ compacted. Residential driveways need 2-3 inches over a prepared base; commercial drives 3-4 inches.
Formula & how it works
Volume (ft³) = length × width × thickness/12. Weight (tons) = volume × 145 lb/ft³ ÷ 2,000. Add 5-10% for compaction loss and waste.
Worked example
Driveway 50 × 12 ft × 3 in compacted. Volume = 50 × 12 × 0.25 = 150 ft³. Weight = 150 × 145 ÷ 2,000 = 10.9 tons. With 8% extra = 11.7 tons.
Frequently asked questions
Thickness for a driveway?
Residential: 2" on stable base, 3" on questionable subgrade. Trucks/RVs: 4"+.
Hot mix vs cold patch?
Hot mix is the real deal — ordered by the ton, applied at 275-300°F. Cold patch is for pothole repair, sold in 50 lb bags.
How long to cure?
Drivable in 24-48 hours, full cure 30 days. Avoid heavy point loads (kickstands, jack pads) for several weeks.