What it calculates
Estimate cubic yards of soil from area and depth.
Topsoil Calculator
Estimate cubic yards of topsoil from area and depth.
Planning and estimating aid only. Verify project requirements, manufacturer instructions, adopted codes, permits, and field conditions before performing regulated work.
Landscape estimating
How to Use This Calculator
Use the field units shown below, then compare your result with the worked example. Measure depth relative to the intended finished level.
How the calculation works
Area × depth is converted to cubic yards and the extra allowance is added.
What the result means
Loose delivered soil can settle or compact, so actual finished coverage may vary.
Estimate a uniform topsoil layer
At 200 square feet and 6 inches deep, volume is 200 × (6 ÷ 12) = 100 cubic feet, or 3.70 cubic yards. Adding 10% gives about 4.07 cubic yards.
Contractor tip: Measure depth relative to the intended finished level. Do not count an existing soil layer as new material unless it is actually being removed or replaced.
Verify the final quantity
The model uses geometric volume. Soil settling, moisture, screening, existing soil and delivery units can change the actual purchase quantity. It does not select a soil blend or determine whether the planned grade drains properly.
Good practice: Compare the calculated quantity with plans, specifications, product packaging and current field conditions before purchasing material.