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Asphalt Tonnage Calculator
Area × compacted thickness × mix density gives the tons of hot mix to order, plus an estimate of how many trucks that takes. Also searched as the asphalt tons calculator, or "how many tons of asphalt do I need."
Formula
How the Math Works
Tons = L ft × W ft × (thickness in ÷ 12) × density lb/ft³ ÷ 2,000
Worked example: a 60 ft × 40 ft lot, 3 in compacted, at 145 lb/ft³.
- 60 ft × 40 ft = 2,400 ft²
- 3 in ÷ 12 = 0.25 ft, and 2,400 × 0.25 = 600 ft³
- 600 × 145 lb/ft³ = 87,000 lb, and 87,000 ÷ 2,000 = 43.5 tons
- At 18 tons per truck: 43.5 ÷ 18 = 2.42, so plan on 3 trucks
Units & assumptions
Thickness is compacted (after rolling) thickness in inches. Density is compacted hot-mix density in lb/ft³: 145 is a common planning value, and typical mixes run about 140–150, so use your plant's mix design if you have it. Tons are US short tons (2,000 lb). Tons per truck depends on the truck and your state's legal load, so ask the plant. Yield loss, grade corrections, and tack are not included.
Planning tool, not a PE stamp. Your spec, drawings, and supplier still win.
Field Questions
How many tons of asphalt do I need?
Multiply the area in square feet by the compacted thickness in feet, then by the density (about 145 lb/ft³), and divide by 2,000. For example, 2,400 ft² at 3 in = 600 ft³ × 145 = 87,000 lb = 43.5 tons.
What density should I use for asphalt?
Compacted hot-mix asphalt is commonly figured at about 145 lb/ft³ (roughly 110 lb per square yard per inch). Mixes vary, roughly 140–150 lb/ft³, so use the density from your plant's mix design when you have it.
How much area does one ton of asphalt cover?
At 145 lb/ft³, one ton is about 13.8 ft³. That covers about 83 ft² at 2 in compacted, or about 55 ft² at 3 in.
How many tons does an asphalt truck carry?
It depends on the truck and legal axle limits. Tandems often haul roughly 12–15 tons and tri-axles roughly 16–20. Enter the number your plant or hauler gives you.