Topsoil Calculator
Topsoil is the dark, organic-rich upper layer of soil used to build garden beds, level low spots, and establish new lawns. It is sold screened or unscreened, and its weight swings widely with moisture and organic content.
Bags are always rounded up. Order about 5–10% extra for settling and waste — this is a planning estimate only, not a guaranteed quantity. Density is typical; confirm the exact figure with your supplier.
Density
| Typical density | 1.1 t/yd³ |
|---|---|
| Range | 0.9–1.3 t/yd³ |
| Default depth | 3 in |
| Source | Reviewed default — screened topsoil ~1.0–1.3 t/yd³, higher when moist (Topsoil.com; Dirt Connections); weight is approximate, buy by volume. Confirm with your supplier. |
Worked example
A 10 ft × 10 ft area at 3 in deep is 25 cubic feet — about 0.93 cubic yards, roughly 1.02 tons at 1.1 t/yd³, or 50 half-cubic-foot bags. Add 5–10% for settling.
Use notes
- Three inches lets you regrade and seed; four to six inches builds a proper planting bed.
- Screened topsoil spreads and rakes more evenly for lawns and beds.
- Wet topsoil weighs much more than dry, so order by volume and treat the tonnage as approximate.
Frequently asked questions
How many cubic yards of topsoil do I need for a lawn?
Figure your square footage at two to three inches deep for overseeding and grading, or more when building beds. The calculator turns that into cubic yards.
How much does a cubic yard of topsoil weigh?
Roughly 0.9 to 1.3 tons per cubic yard, but wet or heavy soil can weigh considerably more. Weight is approximate — buy by the cubic yard.
Should I get screened or unscreened topsoil?
Screened soil is cleaner and spreads evenly for lawns and beds; unscreened is cheaper for bulk fill where the finish does not matter.