Asphalt Calculator
Calculate tons of asphalt needed for driveways, parking lots, and roads — with hot mix and cold patch options and cost estimates.
Tonnage is based on Hot Mix density of 145 lbs per cubic foot. Actual density may vary by mix design. Cost estimate covers material only — add $2-$5 per sq ft for professional installation.
How It Works
This calculator converts your project dimensions into tons of asphalt. Choose between hot mix and cold patch to get accurate weight and cost estimates.
Formula: Cubic Feet = Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Thickness (in) ÷ 12. Tons = Cubic Feet × Density (lbs/cu ft) ÷ 2,000.
Hot mix asphalt has a density of approximately 145 lbs per cubic foot. Cold patch is lighter at about 110 lbs per cubic foot. Actual density varies slightly by mix design.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate tons of asphalt needed?
Multiply length (ft) × width (ft) × thickness (in) ÷ 12 to get cubic feet. Then multiply by the asphalt density (145 lbs/cu ft for hot mix) and divide by 2,000 to convert to tons. This calculator handles the conversion automatically.
How thick should an asphalt driveway be?
A residential driveway should be 2-3 inches of asphalt over a 6-8 inch compacted gravel base. Commercial parking lots typically need 3-4 inches. Heavy-traffic roads may require 4-6 inches or more.
What is the difference between hot mix and cold patch asphalt?
Hot mix asphalt (HMA) is heated to 300°F and must be applied while hot — it is stronger and more durable, used for driveways and roads. Cold patch is pre-mixed and applied at ambient temperature — it is used for pothole repairs and small patches, not full paving.
How much does asphalt cost per ton?
Hot mix asphalt typically costs $85-$150 per ton for materials, depending on your region and mix design. Cold patch costs $100-$200 per ton. Installation labor adds $2-$5 per square foot. Total installed cost for a driveway is typically $3-$7 per square foot.
How many square feet does a ton of asphalt cover?
At 2 inches thick, one ton of hot mix asphalt covers approximately 80-85 square feet. At 3 inches thick, it covers about 55-58 square feet. Coverage varies with compaction and mix design.