Asphalt Hot Mix and Sealer Calculator

Explanation

Asphalt hot mix is typically ordered by tonnage, but the area and thickness you plan drive the volume of material needed. This calculator converts driveway area and compacted thickness into volume, multiplies by density, and then converts the result to tons. A common hot mix density is about 145 lb per cubic foot, but mixes can vary based on aggregate and binder content, so always confirm with your supplier for the exact density of the mix design.

The volume output is included because it helps cross-check orders and compare material specifications. Contractors often think in cubic yards or cubic meters for hauling and placement, while suppliers invoice in tons. Converting between these gives a clearer picture of trucking needs and staging. For maintenance, the calculator also estimates sealer buckets based on coverage per bucket. This is optional and should be matched to the sealer product label, since coverage varies with surface condition and application method.

This estimator assumes compacted thickness. If you plan to place a loose lift thicker than the compacted target, add a compaction factor to the thickness input. It is also a material estimator only, not a design tool. Base preparation, compaction, and drainage all affect performance, so confirm specifications for load bearing pavements, driveways, and commercial lots. Use this tool to plan orders and avoid costly short loads.

For overlays, measure the existing surface carefully and account for crown or slope. A small change in thickness across a large area can shift the tonnage by several tons. When ordering, many suppliers require a minimum tonnage or delivery schedule, so a clear estimate helps with logistics. If you are using a higher density mix or stone mastic asphalt, adjust the density input to match the mix design. Delivery timing also matters because hot mix cools quickly and affects compaction.

Formula

Volume: V = area x thickness

Weight: W = V x density

Tons: tons = W / 2000 (imperial)

Sealer buckets: buckets = ceil(area / coverage)

Example Calculation

A 600 sq ft driveway at 2 inches thick yields 100 cubic feet of material. At 145 lb per cubic foot, that is 14,500 lb or 7.25 tons. With a 250 sq ft sealer coverage per bucket, you need 3 buckets of sealer.

FAQs

Do I need to adjust for compaction?

Yes. If the specified thickness is compacted, add extra thickness for loose placement as recommended by your supplier.

Can I use metric density?

Yes. Switch to metric and enter density in kg per cubic meter.

How accurate is the sealer estimate?

It depends on surface condition and product coverage. Use manufacturer guidance.

Why does tonnage differ from cubic yards?

Density varies by mix design, so the same volume can weigh different amounts.

Should I order extra material?

Add a small buffer for waste and edge tapering, especially on irregular shapes.

How it works

This tool converts area and thickness into volume, then uses density to estimate tonnage and optional sealer buckets. All calculations run client-side.

Disclaimer

Results are estimates. Verify mix design, density, compaction requirements, and local specifications before ordering.