Topsoil Calculator

Calculate cubic feet, cubic yards and bags of topsoil for gardens and lawns.

Area (sq ft)
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Cubic Feet
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Cubic Yards
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40 lb Bags Needed
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Weight (US Tons)
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How the Topsoil Calculator Works

This topsoil calculator determines the volume and weight of topsoil needed for any area. Enter length and width to compute area automatically, or type the total square footage directly into the area field — it takes precedence when filled. Depth in inches is converted to feet and multiplied by the area to get cubic feet. Dividing by 27 converts to cubic yards, the standard bulk order unit. Standard 40-lb bags contain approximately 0.75 cubic feet of topsoil, so bags needed is cubic feet divided by 0.75, rounded up. Weight in US tons uses a density of 1.35 tons per cubic yard — a typical value for moist, loamy topsoil. Dry or sandy soils will weigh less; heavy clay soils may weigh more.

Frequently Asked Questions

How deep should topsoil be?
For lawns, 4–6 inches is sufficient. For gardens and raised beds, aim for 8–12 inches of quality topsoil.
How many cubic yards of topsoil do I need for a lawn?
Measure length × width × depth (in feet) and divide by 27 for cubic yards. A 1,000 sq ft lawn at 4 inches deep needs about 12.3 cubic yards.
How much does a yard of topsoil weigh?
Approximately 1.35 US tons (2,700 lbs) per cubic yard, depending on moisture content and composition.
How many bags of topsoil make a yard?
A standard 40-lb bag contains about 0.75 cubic feet. You need approximately 36 bags to equal 1 cubic yard.

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