About this calculator
Topsoil for a new lawn, raised levels or planting beds, with a settling allowance.
How it’s calculated
Volume = area × depth × (1 + settling). Loose topsoil settles 15–20% once it is firmed and watered.
Worked example
With these inputs:
- Area shape
- Rectangle
- Length
- 20 ft
- Width
- 10 ft
- Depth
- 4 in
- Material
- Screened topsoil
- Extra for settling
- 15%
the result is:
- Volume
- 2.84 cu yd
- Area
- 200 sq ft
- Approx. weight
- 3.11 tons
- 0.75 cu ft bags
- 103 bags
- 1 cu ft bags
- 77 bags
Tips from the trade
- 4–6" under new sod or seed.
- Order screened soil. Unscreened soil comes with stones and roots.
Results are estimates for planning and pricing. Check quantities against your drawings, the manufacturer’s data and local building codes before ordering.