Topsoil Calculator
Calculate cubic yards from your project area and soil depth. Weight stays optional because topsoil density changes with composition and moisture.
How the topsoil calculation works
Measure the area in square feet, convert the soil depth from inches to feet, multiply to get cubic feet, then divide by 27 to get cubic yards.
cubic yards = area (ft²) × depth (ft) ÷ 27
The optional extra-material percentage is applied after the base volume is calculated.
Example
A 20 ft × 10 ft area at 3 in deep needs about 1.85 yd³ before extra material. With 5% extra, the purchase estimate is about 1.94 yd³.
Why weight is optional
Topsoil can vary substantially by composition and moisture. The calculator therefore treats cubic yards as the primary answer. If your supplier gives you a density, use that value for the best weight estimate.
Before ordering topsoil
Use cubic yards as the primary order estimate unless your supplier specifically sells by weight. If weight is needed, replace the reference density with the supplier's density whenever possible. Composition, moisture and handling can change the relationship between a cubic yard and a delivered ton.