CalcWoven • Topsoil Calculator
Topsoil Calculator
Enter your area and depth to get cubic yards, tons and bags of topsoil, plus an estimated cost. Free, with no sign-up.
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Area and depth
Topping an existing bed usually takes about 2–4 in. New beds and lawns often need more. Fresh topsoil settles, so many people add 5–15%.
Soil weight
Slightly moist, screened topsoil. About 2,200 lb per cubic yard is a common planning figure.
Bags and cost (optional)
Bagged topsoil comes in different sizes, such as 0.75, 1 or 2 cu ft. Check the volume printed on your bag.
You need
- Cubic feet—
- Cubic meters—
- Estimated weight—
- Metric tonnes—
- Bags needed—
- Estimated cost—
Results update as you type.
Formula: area × depth ÷ 27 = cubic yards; cubic yards × tons per cubic yard = tons.
HOW IT WORKS
From area and depth to cubic yards and tons
The calculator multiplies area by depth to get cubic feet, then divides by 27 to get cubic yards. It then multiplies cubic yards by the weight of your soil to estimate tons, because suppliers sell topsoil by the cubic yard, by the ton or in bags.
For example, 500 sq ft at 3 inches deep is 125 cubic feet, or 4.63 cubic yards. At 1.10 tons per cubic yard, that is about 5.1 tons. Choose Known area to enter a total you have already worked out, and use a depth of 12 inches for a raised bed.
How deep should topsoil be?
There is no single answer. Topping an existing bed usually takes about 2 to 4 inches, while new beds can need more. For a new lawn, many guides suggest around 4 to 6 inches of topsoil, often blended into loosened subsoil, and advice varies by region, so check local guidance. On an established lawn, spread topsoil thinly and in stages, because a thick layer can smother the grass. Planning to lay turf? See how to lay sod for soil preparation.
How much does topsoil weigh?
Topsoil weight depends mostly on moisture and soil type. The calculator uses these planning values, and you can enter your own with Custom density.
| Soil condition | Planning weight | In pounds per cubic yard |
|---|---|---|
| Typical topsoil | About 1.10 tons per yd³ | About 2,200 |
| Dry, loose topsoil | About 1.00 tons per yd³ | About 2,000 |
| Wet topsoil | About 1.40 tons per yd³ | About 2,800 |
For more on why the weight varies, see how much does a yard of topsoil weigh.
How far does a cubic yard go?
A cubic yard is 27 cubic feet. Here is how much area it covers at each depth, before any extra allowance.
| Depth | Area covered by 1 cubic yard |
|---|---|
| 1 inch | 324 sq ft |
| 2 inches | 162 sq ft |
| 3 inches | 108 sq ft |
| 4 inches | 81 sq ft |
| 6 inches | 54 sq ft |
QUICK ANSWERS
Common questions
How many cubic yards of topsoil do I need?
Multiply the area in square feet by the depth in inches, then divide by 324. For example, 1,000 sq ft at 4 inches is 1,000 × 4 ÷ 324 = 12.35 cubic yards.
How many bags of topsoil are in a cubic yard?
A cubic yard is 27 cubic feet, so it takes 27 bags of 1 cu ft, 36 bags of 0.75 cu ft, or 13.5 bags of 2 cu ft. Divide 27 by the volume printed on your bag and round up.
How many tons of topsoil do I need?
Multiply cubic yards by the soil’s weight per yard, about 1.1 tons for typical topsoil. Ask your supplier which weight they use if you are buying by the ton.
Should I order extra topsoil?
Loose topsoil settles once it is spread and watered, so many people add 5 to 15%. Use the extra selector to include it in the results.
Does this calculator know topsoil prices?
No. Prices vary by supplier, region, soil blend and delivery. Enter your own price per cubic yard, ton or bag for a cost estimate.
MORE TOOLS
Working on the rest of the yard?
Use the Cubic Yards Calculator for mulch, gravel or sand, the Sod Calculator for a new lawn, or the Gravel Calculator for paths and bases. For the math behind the conversion, see square feet to cubic yards. Questions about this tool? See the FAQ.
Weights are planning estimates and vary by moisture, soil type and supplier. This calculator gives a general estimate based on the measurements you enter. Results are for reference only.