Calculate how much gravel you need for a shed foundation pad. Estimate crushed stone, cubic yards, tons, and cost — with proper perimeter overhang for drainage.
Select your shed size and gravel type. The calculator automatically adds perimeter overhang for proper drainage.
A proper shed base needs enough gravel to provide drainage, prevent settling, and create a level foundation. The right depth depends on your shed size, soil conditions, and what you'll store inside.
| Shed Type | Recommended Depth | Perimeter Overhang | Total Pad Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small shed (under 80 sq ft) | 4 inches | 6–12 inches | Shed + 1–2 ft total |
| Standard shed (80–150 sq ft) | 4–6 inches | 12 inches | Shed + 2 ft total |
| Large shed / workshop (150+ sq ft) | 6 inches | 12–18 inches | Shed + 2–3 ft total |
| Heavy equipment storage | 6–8 inches | 12–18 inches | Shed + 2–3 ft total |
Shed foundations need gravel that compacts well, drains water, and stays level under weight. Here are the recommended materials:
Quick reference for the most popular shed dimensions. All estimates include a 12-inch perimeter overhang and 4 inches of crushed stone:
Without overhang (not recommended): 1.5 cu yd → 2.2 tons crushed stone
With 12" overhang (recommended): pad = 12×14 ft → 2.1 cu yd → 3.1 tons
Order quantity (+10% waste): ~2.9 tons → order 3.2 tons
Follow these steps to calculate exactly how much gravel your shed foundation needs. The calculator above handles all the math — including perimeter overhang.
Measure the length and width of your shed in feet. Check your shed manual or measure the floor frame. Standard sizes: 8×10, 10×12, 12×16 ft.
Shed area = Length × Width
Add 12 inches (1 foot) to each side for the gravel pad to extend beyond the shed. This creates a drainage buffer. For example, a 10×12 shed becomes a 12×14 ft gravel pad.
Pad length = Shed length + 2 ft Pad width = Shed width + 2 ft
Multiply the pad area by the gravel depth (in feet), then divide by 27. For a 12×14 ft pad at 4 inches deep: 12 × 14 × 0.333 ÷ 27 = 2.07 cubic yards.
Cubic yards = (Pad length × Pad width × Depth in ft) ÷ 27
Multiply cubic yards by the material density (1.5 for crushed stone). Add 10% for compaction and leveling. Shed bases need proper compaction — rent a plate compactor for best results.
Tons = Cubic yards × 1.5 Order qty = Tons × 1.10
A gravel shed base is one of the most affordable foundation options — significantly cheaper than concrete. Here's what to budget:
| Cost Item | 10×12 Shed | 12×16 Shed |
|---|---|---|
| Gravel (crushed stone $35/ton) | $100–$115 | $175–$200 |
| Delivery fee | $50–$100 | $50–$150 |
| Landscape fabric | $15–$25 | $25–$40 |
| Timber edging (optional) | $30–$60 | $50–$80 |
| Plate compactor rental | $40–$60 | $40–$60 |
| Total DIY | $235–$360 | $340–$530 |
| Professional installation | $300–$600 | $500–$900 |
A standard 10×12 ft shed base with a 12-inch perimeter overhang at 4 inches deep needs approximately 2.6 tons of crushed stone (1.9 cubic yards). Without overhang: about 2.0 tons. Always add the perimeter overhang — it prevents water from pooling under your shed and causing rot or settling. Use the calculator above for your exact shed size.
A gravel shed base should be at least 4 inches deep for proper drainage and stability. For larger sheds (over 100 sq ft) or if you're storing heavy equipment, use 6 inches. The base must be compacted with a plate compactor for a level surface. Always extend the gravel 6–12 inches beyond the shed walls on all sides for drainage.
Crushed stone #57 (3/4 inch angular gravel) is the best material for shed bases. Its angular shape locks together when compacted, creating a stable, level foundation that drains water effectively. Crusher run (crushed stone with stone dust/fines) is also excellent — it compacts to an even denser surface. Avoid pea gravel and smooth river rock, which won't compact and can cause your shed to settle unevenly.
A gravel shed base costs $235–$360 for a 10×12 ft shed (DIY), or $340–$530 for a 12×16 ft shed. Professional installation costs $300–$900 depending on shed size. The base layer is the most affordable foundation option — significantly cheaper than a concrete pad ($800–$2,000+ for the same size). See the cost guide above for a full breakdown.
Yes — landscape fabric (geotextile) is essential under a gravel shed base. It prevents the gravel from mixing with the soil below (which compromises drainage), blocks weed growth that can push through the gravel, and helps maintain the integrity of the base over time. Use commercial-grade woven geotextile fabric. Overlap seams by at least 12 inches and extend fabric to cover the entire gravel pad including perimeter overhang.
Yes, you can place a shed directly on a properly prepared gravel pad. The gravel must be at least 4 inches deep, compacted with a plate compactor, and leveled in all directions. The pad should extend 12 inches beyond the shed on all sides. For wooden shed floors, consider adding concrete deck blocks or pier blocks on top of the gravel for additional protection against ground moisture. Check your shed manufacturer's recommendations — some warranties require specific foundation types.