Asphalt Tonnage Calculator
Calculate how many tons of asphalt you need for driveways, parking lots, and paving projects.
Tons Needed (+ 10% waste)
8.77
tons of hot mix asphalt
Note on Costs
Material cost only. Add $2–$5/sq ft for professional installation, grading, and base prep. Always get 3 quotes from local paving contractors.
Free Asphalt Project Tips
Base prep, sealing timelines, and contractor selection guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tons of asphalt do I need per square foot?
Asphalt weighs approximately 145 lbs per cubic foot. For a standard 2-inch driveway, that works out to roughly 0.012 tons per square foot (about 24 lbs/sq ft). A 10×20 ft driveway at 2 inches deep needs approximately 0.9 tons — order at least 1 ton to account for waste and compaction.
How thick should asphalt be for a driveway?
Residential driveways typically use 2–3 inches of compacted asphalt over a 4–6 inch gravel base. For heavier vehicles or commercial applications, use 3–4 inches. A thicker base layer and proper compaction are critical for longevity — thin asphalt cracks under freeze-thaw cycles.
What is the cost of asphalt per ton?
Bulk asphalt (hot mix) typically runs $80–$150 per ton depending on region, oil prices, and mix type. Installation labor adds $2–$5 per square foot. A 1,000 sq ft driveway at 2 inches deep needs roughly 9 tons of asphalt, plus the gravel base, equipment, and labor cost.