Topsoil Calculator

For new lawns, spread 4-6 inches (10-15cm) of quality topsoil over prepared ground. Grass roots typically grow 4-6 inches deep, so adequate topsoil is essential. Vegetable gardens need 8-12 inches (20-30cm) for root development. Flower beds need 6-8 inches. One cubic yard covers 324 sq ft at 1 inch deep, 108 sq ft at 3 inches, or 54 sq ft at 6 inches. Quality topsoil contains organic matter and drains well.

Topsoil weighs approximately 2,000-2,700 lb per cubic yard (1,000-1,350 kg per cubic meter) depending on moisture content and composition. Dry topsoil weighs less than wet. One cubic yard equals about 1-1.3 tons (0.9-1.2 tonnes). This weight is important for delivery considerations and ensuring your vehicle or trailer can handle the load. Most pickup trucks can safely carry 1-2 cubic yards maximum.

Bulk topsoil prices: USA $25-50 per cubic yard; UK £30-60/m³; EU €25-50/m³; Australia A$50-100/m³; Canada C$30-60/yd³. Screened topsoil costs more than unscreened. Bagged topsoil at retail costs $3-8 per 40 lb bag—significantly more expensive than bulk. Delivery adds $50-150 per load. Quality varies widely—ask about organic content and whether it's screened for debris.

Topsoil is natural surface soil, screened to remove debris—used for filling, grading, and lawn establishment. Garden soil is topsoil blended with compost and amendments for planting—richer in nutrients but more expensive. For large areas (lawns, grading), use topsoil and add your own amendments. For garden beds, garden soil or a topsoil/compost mix works better. Never use topsoil alone in containers—it compacts too much.

Remove existing grass, weeds, and debris. Grade the area for proper drainage (slope away from buildings). Loosen existing soil 2-4 inches with a tiller or rake to help new topsoil integrate—layered soil without integration can create drainage problems. Add topsoil in 2-inch layers, lightly compacting between layers. Final grade should be about 1 inch below sidewalks and driveways to allow for settling.

Yes, order 10-15% extra topsoil to account for settling (topsoil compacts 10-20% after watering), uneven existing grade, and spreading losses. Running short mid-project is frustrating and ordering small additional amounts is expensive. Leftover topsoil stores well and is useful for future projects, filling low spots, or topdressing lawns. Better to have extra than not enough.