Topsoil calculator
Find out how much topsoil or garden soil you need for a new lawn, a raised bed, or filling low spots.
Estimates round up. Check product labels and supplier figures before ordering.
How much topsoil do you need?
| Project | Depth |
|---|---|
| Top-dressing a lawn | ¼–½ in |
| New lawn from seed or sod | 4–6 in |
| New vegetable bed | 6–8 in |
| Raised bed | Full bed depth |
How it's calculated
Topsoil is sold by the cubic yard in bulk or in bags of 0.75 or 1 cubic foot. The calculator gives all three, plus a weight estimate of about 1.1 tons per cubic yard for dry soil.
Cubic yards = length (ft) × width (ft) × depth (in) ÷ 12 ÷ 27
For a raised bed, use the bed's inside length and width and its full height as the depth. Fresh soil settles, so order 10–15% extra for beds.
What you'll need
- Garden soil
- Lawn leveling rake
- Wheelbarrow
- Soil test kit
Common questions
How many bags of topsoil are in a yard?
About 36 bags of 0.75 cubic feet, or 27 bags of 1 cubic foot.
How much does a yard of topsoil weigh?
Roughly 1 to 1.3 tons, depending on moisture. Wet soil is heavier.
Is it cheaper to buy topsoil in bulk?
Usually, once you need more than about one cubic yard. Delivery fees can tip the balance for small orders.
How much soil for a 4 × 8 raised bed?
A 4 × 8 ft bed that is 12 inches deep holds 32 cubic feet, about 1.2 cubic yards.