Complete reference tables for asphalt tonnage calculations
These comprehensive asphalt tonnage conversion charts provide quick reference tables for estimating asphalt quantities based on area, thickness, and density. Use these charts to quickly determine how much asphalt you'll need for your paving project without complex calculations.
Use our asphalt tonnage calculator for exact calculations with your specific measurements and parameters.
| Thickness | Coverage Area per Ton | Tons per 1,000 sq ft |
|---|---|---|
| 1 inch | 160 sq ft | 6.25 |
| 1.5 inches | 107 sq ft | 9.35 |
| 2 inches | 80 sq ft | 12.5 |
| 2.5 inches | 64 sq ft | 15.6 |
| 3 inches | 53 sq ft | 18.9 |
| 3.5 inches | 46 sq ft | 21.7 |
| 4 inches | 40 sq ft | 25.0 |
| 5 inches | 32 sq ft | 31.3 |
| 6 inches | 27 sq ft | 37.5 |
Note: This table assumes a density of 145 lb/ft³ for hot mix asphalt. For other asphalt types, use the density adjustment factors below.
| Thickness | Coverage Area per Ton | Tons per 100 sq yd |
|---|---|---|
| 1 inch | 17.8 sq yd | 5.6 |
| 1.5 inches | 11.9 sq yd | 8.4 |
| 2 inches | 8.9 sq yd | 11.2 |
| 2.5 inches | 7.1 sq yd | 14.0 |
| 3 inches | 5.9 sq yd | 16.9 |
| 4 inches | 4.4 sq yd | 22.5 |
| Asphalt Type | Density (lb/ft³) | Multiplier Factor |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Mix Asphalt (Standard) | 145-150 | 1.00 |
| Warm Mix Asphalt | 142-147 | 0.98 |
| Cold Mix Asphalt | 135-140 | 0.93 |
| Recycled Asphalt | 140-145 | 0.95 |
| Porous Asphalt | 125-135 | 0.87 |
| Stone Matrix Asphalt | 150-155 | 1.03 |
| Convert From | To | Multiply By |
|---|---|---|
| Square Feet | Square Yards | 0.111 |
| Square Feet | Square Meters | 0.093 |
| Square Yards | Square Meters | 0.836 |
| Square Meters | Square Feet | 10.764 |
| Inches | Millimeters | 25.4 |
| Feet | Meters | 0.3048 |
| Cubic Feet | Cubic Yards | 0.037 |
| Cubic Feet | Cubic Meters | 0.0283 |
| Tons (US) | Tonnes (metric) | 0.907 |
| Tonnes (metric) | Tons (US) | 1.102 |
| Pounds | Kilograms | 0.454 |
Tons = Area (ft²) × Thickness (ft) × 145 lb/ft³ ÷ 2,000
Example: 500 ft² × (2÷12) ft × 145 lb/ft³ ÷ 2,000 = 6.04 tons
Tonnes = Area (m²) × Thickness (m) × 2,400 kg/m³ ÷ 1,000
Example: 100 m² × 0.05 m × 2,400 kg/m³ ÷ 1,000 = 12 tonnes
Tons = Cubic Yards × 1.35 (for hot mix asphalt)
Example: 10 cubic yards × 1.35 = 13.5 tons
A ton (US ton or short ton) equals 2,000 pounds, while a tonne (metric ton) equals 1,000 kilograms (approximately 2,204.6 pounds). The metric tonne is about 10% heavier than the US ton. When ordering asphalt, it's important to confirm which unit your supplier is using to avoid miscalculations.
These conversion charts provide estimates based on standard asphalt densities. Actual asphalt weight can vary by ±5-10% depending on the exact mix composition, compaction rate, and local materials. For critical applications where precise quantities are required, it's advisable to consult with your asphalt supplier about the specific density of their mix.
For hot mix asphalt, 1 ton is approximately equal to 0.74 cubic yards (20 cubic feet). Conversely, 1 cubic yard of hot mix asphalt weighs approximately 1.35 tons or 2,700 pounds. These conversions vary slightly based on the specific asphalt mix and density.
Yes, it's generally recommended to order 5-10% more asphalt than calculated to account for waste, spillage, and variations in subgrade. For complex projects with irregular shapes or difficult access, consider adding up to 15% extra. It's better to have a small amount left over than to run short, which could result in cold joints and potential future failures in the pavement.
Asphalt density varies due to differences in aggregate size, binder content, and air void content. Hot mix asphalt is typically denser because it's compacted at high temperatures, reducing air voids. Porous asphalt is intentionally designed with more air voids for drainage. Recycled asphalt may have slightly lower density due to the aged binder from reclaimed materials. These density differences affect the weight of material needed for a given volume.