Topsoil Calculator
Estimate cubic yards and tons of topsoil from area and depth, using an editable 1.1 t/yd³ density.
Processed locally in your browser — nothing is uploaded.
Topsoil Calculator
4–6 in for new lawns, 2 in for topdressing
Screened topsoil is commonly ~1.1 tons per cubic yard dry
Enter the area and depth to estimate topsoil.
About Topsoil Calculator
Length × width × depth gives the soil volume in cubic yards; a density of 1.1 tons per cubic yard (typical for dry screened topsoil, editable) converts that into delivery tons.
Common uses
- Order soil for a new lawn at 4–6 in of depth
- Fill raised beds and low spots with a known tonnage
Example
Input
25 × 15 ft at 4 in deep, 10% waste
Output
4.63 yd³ exact → order 5.09 yd³ ≈ 5.6 tons
Limitations
- Wet soil weighs 30–50% more than the dry density default
Frequently asked questions
How much topsoil do I need for a new lawn?
Plan on 4–6 in of soil for seeding or sod. At 4 in deep, 1,000 sq ft of lawn needs about 12.3 cubic yards — roughly 13.6 tons at the 1.1 tons-per-yard default density.
How much does a yard of topsoil weigh?
Dry screened topsoil weighs around 1.1 tons (2,200 lb) per cubic yard, the default here. Moisture matters a lot: wet soil can weigh 30–50% more, so a rainy-week delivery is heavier than the same volume dry.
How many yards of soil does a raised bed take?
A 4×8 ft bed filled 12 in deep holds 32 cubic feet, or about 1.2 cubic yards. Run each bed's footprint through the calculator at your fill depth and add the results together.
Is my information sent anywhere when I calculate topsoil?
No. The volume and tonnage math happens entirely in your browser — nothing you enter is transmitted to a server or stored.