Tarmac Calculator
Estimate tarmac tonnes and cost from square metres, compacted thickness, waste, and a local price per tonne, with metric driveway planning guidance.
Direct answer
How do I calculate tonnes of tarmac?
Measure the finished area in square metres and enter the compacted depth in millimetres. The calculator converts the volume to metric tonnes and includes a waste allowance for the project shape and access. Use a current local price per tonne, then confirm the material, delivery, base work, drainage, and cleanup included in the quote.
Use area or length × width to answer how much asphalt you need and estimate material and installed cost for a basic project.
Input mode
Selected: Area
Units
Selected: Metric (tonnes)
Fresh asphalt over prepared base.
A little waste is normal for cuts, waste, and site cleanup.
A simple starting point for quick estimates.
Quote range
Project estimate
Results update automatically as you edit.
Asphalt needed
10.7 tons / 9.7 tonnes
A quick quantity number for quotes and ordering.
Material cost
$962 - $1,496
About $1 - $2 per sq ft.
Installed cost
$1,496 - $2,351
About $2 - $4 per sq ft for new installation.
Final pricing depends on access, prep work, base condition, grading, haul distance, and local crew rates.
Ready to ask for a quote?
Paste these numbers into a message when you ask a local paving contractor for a quote.
Metric first
Use square metres, millimetres, and tonnes when your local quote is metric.
UK wording
In the UK, tarmac is a common name for this type of surfacing.
Local price ready
Enter your local price per tonne for a better material estimate.
How to use a tarmac calculator
Enter the paved area, compacted thickness, and waste allowance. If you have a supplier or contractor price per tonne, enter it as a custom material price.
Square metres
Measure the finished area and include parking pads, widening, or turnarounds.
Millimetres
Use the compacted depth from the quote, not the loose material depth.
Tonnes
The calculator converts quantity so you can compare with metric supplier quotes.
Tarmac quote differences
A tarmac quote can mean material, delivery, or a full installed job. Compare material prices per tonne, and compare installed work per square metre or as a complete job. Always check the unit and included work before comparing prices.
Material only
Useful for quantity planning, but it does not include labor or base work.
Installed job
Usually includes crew, equipment, laying, rolling, and finishing.
Extra work
Drainage, edging, old surface removal, and base repair can change the final quote.
Swipe the table left or right to see every column.
| Project | Scope | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Small driveway | 30-45 sq m | Good for a first quantity check. |
| Two-car driveway | 45-75 sq m | Use local price per tonne if available. |
| Long drive | 75+ sq m | Access and base work matter more. |
What to confirm before requesting quotes
- Confirm whether the quote uses tonnes, square metres, or a full job total.
- Ask for compacted depth in millimetres.
- Check whether base repair, drainage, edging, and cleanup are included.
- Use local tarmac pricing instead of U.S. state price bands.
When you request quotes
Share the same dimensions, thickness, and scope with two or three local suppliers or paving contractors so their quotes are easier to compare.
Related asphalt tools
Choose the tool that matches the next part of your project.