Total Area:
Sq Ft
Total Topsoil Needed*:
Cubic Yards
Topsoil Calculator – Estimate How Much Soil You Need
The Topsoil Calculator helps you estimate the amount of soil you need for your garden, lawn, or landscaping project. Easily calculate the volume in cubic yards, cubic meters, or tons, and avoid over- or under-ordering.
How to Use the Topsoil Calculator
Enter:
- Length and width of the area (in feet or meters)
- Desired depth of topsoil (in inches or centimeters)
The calculator will show you the total volume required in cubic yards or cubic meters. You can also estimate the weight in tons for delivery.
How It Works
Basic topsoil calculation:
- Volume (cubic feet): Length × Width × Depth
- Volume (cubic yards): Cubic Feet ÷ 27
- Weight (tons): Cubic Yards × Average soil weight (about 1.35 tons per cubic yard)
Example
Area: 20 ft × 10 ft
Depth: 6 inches = 0.5 ft
Volume = 20 × 10 × 0.5 = 100 cubic feet
Cubic Yards = 100 ÷ 27 ≈ 3.7 cubic yards
Weight = 3.7 × 1.35 ≈ 5 tons
Common Use Cases
- Filling raised garden beds
- Leveling a lawn before laying turf
- Creating new flower beds
- Landscaping large areas
- Ordering bulk topsoil from suppliers
Why Use a Topsoil Calculator?
Ordering too much soil wastes money and effort, while too little delays your project. This tool ensures you get the exact amount needed for a smooth gardening or landscaping job.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How deep should topsoil be?
For lawns: 4–6 inches. For garden beds: 6–12 inches depending on plant type.
How much does topsoil weigh?
One cubic yard of topsoil typically weighs about 1.35 tons (2,700 lbs).
Can I calculate in meters?
Yes! Just switch your inputs to meters and centimeters — the formula works the same.
How many wheelbarrows in a cubic yard?
About 9–14 standard wheelbarrows (depending on wheelbarrow size).
Does topsoil settle?
Yes — compacting and settling can reduce soil depth by 10–20% after laying.
Related tools: Acreage Calculator, Construction Calculator, Area Calculator.