Topsoil Calculator
Calculate cubic yards of topsoil for gardens and lawn establishment.
Topsoil Calculator
What This Calculator Does
The Topsoil Calculator determines cubic yards and tons of topsoil needed for garden beds, lawns, raised beds, and landscaping projects. Enter the area and depth to get the soil volume, weight, and the +10% waste amount for settling and grading adjustments.
Topsoil is the foundation of every garden and lawn. It is sold by the cubic yard from landscape supply yards, typically priced at $20-$50 per cubic yard delivered. A standard garden bed requires 6-12 inches of quality topsoil; lawn topdressing uses 1-2 inches.
One cubic yard of topsoil covers approximately 108 square feet at 3 inches deep, or 54 square feet at 6 inches deep. The calculator provides both cubic yard and ton measurements - topsoil weighs approximately 1.1-1.3 tons per cubic yard depending on moisture content and composition.
How to Use
- Measure the area to be covered in square feet (length x width for rectangles, or use the Area Calculator for irregular shapes).
- Select the desired depth: 3 in for lawn topdressing, 6 in for garden beds, 12 in for raised beds.
- Enter the area and depth into the calculator.
- Click "Calculate" to get cubic yards and tons needed.
- Order from a local landscape supply company - most deliver with a minimum 3-5 cubic yard load.
Reference Table
| Garden Area | Depth 3 in | Depth 6 in | Depth 12 in | Tons (6 in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 sq ft | 0.46 cu yd | 0.93 cu yd | 1.85 cu yd | 1.1 tons |
| 100 sq ft | 0.93 cu yd | 1.85 cu yd | 3.70 cu yd | 2.2 tons |
| 200 sq ft | 1.85 cu yd | 3.70 cu yd | 7.41 cu yd | 4.4 tons |
| 500 sq ft | 4.63 cu yd | 9.26 cu yd | 18.52 cu yd | 11.1 tons |
| 1,000 sq ft | 9.26 cu yd | 18.52 cu yd | 37.04 cu yd | 22.2 tons |
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