# Topsoil calculator

> Topsoil is sold by the cubic yard in bulk and by the bag at hardware stores. Enter your area dimensions and depth to see exactly how much to order.

Calculate how much topsoil you need in cubic yards, cubic feet, and tons for any garden, lawn, or raised-bed project.

**Interactive version:** https://onlinecalculator.me/construction/topsoil/
**Category:** Construction

## Formula

```
Volume (cu ft) = Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Depth (in) ÷ 12
Volume (cu yd) = cu ft ÷ 27
Weight (lb)    = cu ft × 100
```

## Example

Lawn 20 ft × 15 ft at 4 inches deep:

```
Volume = 20 × 15 × 4 / 12 = 100 cu ft = 3.70 cu yd
Weight = 100 × 100 = 10,000 lb = 5 tons
```

## Frequently asked questions

### How much topsoil do I need per cubic yard?

1 cubic yard covers 108 sq ft at 3 inches deep, 81 sq ft at 4 inches, or 54 sq ft at 6 inches.

### How deep should I spread topsoil?

For new lawns: 4–6 inches. For garden beds: 8–12 inches. For overseeding an existing lawn: 1–2 inches.

### How much does a cubic yard of topsoil weigh?

Roughly 2,000–2,700 lbs (1–1.35 tons), depending on moisture and composition. This calculator uses 100 lb/cu ft as a typical loamy average.

### How many bags equal a cubic yard?

A standard 40-lb bag contains about 0.5 cu ft. You need about 54 bags to equal 1 cubic yard.

### How do I share my calculation?

Click "Share with my numbers" to copy a URL with your dimensions saved.

## Sources

- [Topsoil — description, depth, and use](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topsoil) — Wikipedia
- [Cubic yard — unit of volume](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cubic_yard) — Wikipedia

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