Topsoil Calculator
Calculate cubic yards and tons of topsoil needed for a lawn, garden bed, or landscaping project. Get exact delivery quantities for soil fill, raised beds, or overseeding prep.
Formula & Reference
| Variable | Formula | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Topsoil Calculator | Volume = Length x Width x Depth / 27 (cubic yards) | cubic yards + tons |
Step-by-Step Examples
20x15 ft area, 4 inches topsoil, $45/cu yd.
- Volume = 20x15x(4/12)/27 = 3.70 cu yds
- Weight = 3.70 x 1.35 = 5.0 tons
- Cost = 3.70 x $45 = $166.67
4x8 ft bed, 12 inches deep.
- Volume = 4x8x1/27 = 1.19 cu yds
- Weight = 1.60 tons
- A standard 4x8 raised bed needs about 1.2 cubic yards
50x30 ft area, 6 inches topsoil.
- Volume = 50x30x0.5/27 = 27.8 cu yds
- Typical lawn prep: 4-6 inches of topsoil
- Order 10% extra for settling = 30.5 cu yds
Real-World Applications
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Loose topsoil settles significantly after watering. Order 10-15% extra to avoid calling for a second delivery.
For lawns: minimum 4 inches, 6 inches ideal. For raised beds: 12 inches minimum for vegetables. Thin layers dry out quickly and don't support healthy roots.
Topsoil is the nutrient-rich top 12 inches of soil used for planting. Fill dirt is subsoil used for grading and is not suitable for growing plants. Using fill dirt for garden areas is a common and expensive mistake.