How to calculate your topsoil project
Fresh topsoil settles after spreading and watering, so planning only from finished depth can leave a project short. The default allowance helps account for this normal reduction.
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- Measure the surface area to be covered.
- Enter the desired finished soil depth.
- Use at least a 10% allowance, or ask the supplier about expected settling.
Formula
The calculation
Area × depth gives volume. The waste percentage is applied before converting cubic feet to cubic yards, cubic meters, and bags.
Worked example
A 15 × 10 ft bed filled 6 inches deep with 15% extra requires about 3.19 cubic yards of topsoil.
The result is a planning estimate. Round purchasing quantities up to available package sizes and confirm the exact product specifications.
Material assumptions
- Bag count uses 0.75-cubic-foot bags.
- The calculation does not account for existing soil volume.
- Loose delivered volume may settle after installation.
Read the complete calculator methodology for unit conversions, rounding rules, and limitations.
Why the waste factor matters
A waste or extra-material percentage allows for real-world variation: irregular edges, cuts, compaction, settling, spillage, and measurement error. Ten percent is a useful starting point, not a universal rule. Increase or reduce it according to the material, layout, and supplier guidance.
Unit conversions used
Questions
Topsoil Calculator FAQ
How much does topsoil settle?
Settling varies with moisture and composition. Ten to twenty percent is a common planning range, but your supplier may provide a better local estimate.
How deep should topsoil be for a lawn?
Projects often use several inches of quality soil, but existing soil, drainage, turf type, and grading needs should determine the final depth.
Can I use this for a raised bed?
Yes, for volume planning. Account for compost or other amendments separately if the bed uses a blended growing medium.