CubicGaugeMeasure. Calculate. Get it right.

Topsoil Calculator

Estimate topsoil for lawn preparation and garden beds.

Your measurements

Example values shown — replace with yours.

You needNo extra added
Extra allowance
Density settings

Planning default: 1,300 kg/m³. Use your supplier’s value when available.

Results update as you type.

You need
cubic yards

Enter your measurements to calculate.

Weight is an estimate. Actual weight depends on material density and moisture.

Plan your topsoil delivery

Measure the area to cover and the depth of new topsoil you want to add. Calculate each section separately if depths vary. For a top-up, enter only the added layer rather than the full depth of the existing soil.

Length (ft) × width (ft) × depth (in) ÷ 324 = cubic yards

In metric units: length (m) × width (m) × depth (cm) ÷ 100 = cubic meters.

A worked example

A 20 ft × 12 ft area at 3 in deep needs 2.22 cubic yards. At 1,300 kg/m³, the estimated weight is 2.4 US tons or 2.2 metric tonnes, before extra.

Topsoil depth and coverage

Use the finished depth you want to achieve; settling and soil type can change the delivered amount needed.

Project or depthPlanning reference
Lawn topdressing1–2 in
New garden bed4–6 in
1 cubic yard at 3 inabout 108 sq ft
1 cubic yard at 6 inabout 54 sq ft

Before you order

Screened topsoil, soil blends and wet soil can have different bulk densities. The default is a planning assumption, not a product specification. Settling is not calculated automatically; discuss loose delivery volume and final depth with your supplier.