MaterialCalculator
Free Topsoil Calculator

Never overpay for dirt again.

Enter your project dimensions and instantly know how many cubic yards of topsoil to order, how many tons it weighs, and exactly how much it will cost.

Enter Project Dimensions

Project Diagram

L: 10 ftW: 5 ft3 in

Total Volume

Cubic Yards

Enter dimensions above

Estimated Weight

Tons

Based on Topsoil density (1.1 t/yd³)

Recommended Depths for Topsoil

Project / Use CaseRecommended Depth
New Lawn (Seeding)4–6 inches
Overseeding Existing Lawn1–2 inches
Raised Garden Bed8–12 inches
Tree Planting Backfill6–8 inches

How to Calculate Topsoil Volume

Most landscaping suppliers sell topsoil by the cubic yard. To convert your project area to cubic yards, use this formula:

Volume (cu yd) = (Length × Width × Depth in feet) ÷ 27

Our calculator also multiplies your cubic yard result by 1.1 tons/yd³ (the standard density for topsoil) to show estimated weight — essential if you are hauling the material yourself or need delivery pricing.

Pro Tips for Topsoil Projects

1

Always order 10–15% extra to account for settling and compaction after watering.

2

Test your soil pH before mixing in topsoil. Most lawns thrive between 6.0 and 7.0 pH.

3

For large orders (over 10 yards), a full-size dump truck holds approximately 10–14 cubic yards.

Frequently Asked Questions

How deep should topsoil be for a new lawn?
For a healthy new lawn, lay 4 to 6 inches of quality topsoil. This gives grass roots enough depth to anchor and access nutrients. For overseeding an existing lawn, a top-dressing of 1 to 2 inches is sufficient.
How much does a cubic yard of topsoil weigh?
One cubic yard of dry topsoil weighs approximately 2,000 lbs (1 ton). Wet or clay-heavy topsoil can weigh up to 2,600 lbs (1.3 tons) per cubic yard. Check with your supplier if weight matters for your vehicle capacity.
How many square feet does a yard of topsoil cover?
One cubic yard of topsoil covers approximately 100 sq ft at 3 inches deep, 81 sq ft at 4 inches deep, and 54 sq ft at 6 inches deep.
What is the difference between topsoil and fill dirt?
Topsoil is the nutrient-rich upper 6–12 inches of soil that supports plant life. Fill dirt is the subsoil below topsoil — it has almost no organic matter and is used purely for structural filling, not for growing plants.

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