Topsoil guide
Topsoil Calculator Formula
Topsoil is calculated by finding the volume of the area you want to cover. Once you know the volume, you can convert it into cubic yards, cubic meters, or an estimated weight.
Quick answer:
Multiply length by width by depth. Convert depth from inches to feet first, then divide cubic feet by 27 to get cubic yards.
Use the Topsoil Calculator →Topsoil Volume Formula
Volume = Length × Width × Depth
Convert Cubic Feet to Cubic Yards
Cubic yards = Cubic feet ÷ 27
Estimate Topsoil Weight
Weight = Cubic yards × Soil density
Soil density varies, but a common estimate is around 1.1 tons per cubic yard.
Example Calculation
A 20 ft by 10 ft area at 6 inches deep has a depth of 0.5 feet.
20 × 10 × 0.5 = 100 ft³
100 ÷ 27 = 3.70 yd³
3.70 × 1.1 = 4.07 tons
Common Topsoil Calculation Mistakes
- Forgetting to convert inches to feet
- Not adding extra for settling
- Using the wrong soil density
- Underestimating depth for new lawns or garden beds
Should You Add Waste?
Yes. A 5–10% waste allowance helps account for settling, uneven ground, spreading variation, and small measurement differences.