Methodology

Every result should be explainable.

This page documents the shared calculation rules used across YardMeasure. Each calculator page adds material-specific assumptions and examples.

Area and volume

Rectangular area equals length multiplied by width. Circular area equals π multiplied by the square of half the diameter. Material volume equals area multiplied by depth, after all measurements have been converted to compatible units.

Core conversions

  • 1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet
  • 1 cubic meter = 35.3147 cubic feet
  • 1 meter = 3.28084 feet
  • 1 inch = 2.54 centimeters

Waste and extra material

The selected percentage is applied to the calculated quantity before bags or whole pieces are rounded. It can account for cuts, compaction, settling, spillage, irregular edges, and measurement variation. It is not a prediction of exact waste.

Rounding

Continuous quantities such as cubic yards and tons are displayed to two decimal places. Bags, posts, rails, pickets, and pavers are rounded up to whole purchasable units.

Prices

Default prices are examples for planning, not live quotes. Enter a current local price when available. Taxes, delivery, minimum orders, labor, equipment, and disposal are excluded unless a calculator explicitly states otherwise.

Limitations

Results are mathematical planning aids. They do not evaluate structural design, soil conditions, drainage, utilities, permits, codes, property boundaries, manufacturer requirements, or job-site safety. Verify all consequential decisions with the appropriate supplier, authority, or qualified professional.