By weight
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By the yard
Topsoil calculator
Estimate topsoil for lawns, gardens and raised beds for lawns, gardens, raised beds and leveling — in cubic yards and tons, with the density built in and editable.
Area & depth
FIG. 01required
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Default density 1.1 tons/yd³ for topsoil for lawns, gardens and raised beds. Bulk material varies with moisture and compaction — override the density if your supplier quotes a specific figure.
You need
—cu yd
Order to nearest ½ yd → —
Coverage area
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How this is calculated
Measure the area and your target depth — 1–2 inches for topdressing a lawn, 4–6 inches for new beds — then convert to cubic yards. Topsoil weighs about 1.1 tons per cubic yard, though moisture changes that.
cubic yards = (length × width × depth in ft) ÷ 27 · tons = cubic yards × 1.1
Densities vary by moisture and source; see the methodology for figures and sources. Other materials are on the materials hub.
FAQ
How much topsoil do I need?
Measure the area and your target depth — 1–2 inches for topdressing a lawn, 4–6 inches for new beds — then convert to cubic yards. Topsoil weighs about 1.1 tons per cubic yard, though moisture changes that.
Should I buy topsoil by the yard or the bag?
Bulk by the cubic yard is far cheaper for anything beyond a small bed. Bags suit tiny jobs and easy handling. This tool gives the cubic-yard figure for bulk ordering.