Swale Volume Calculator
Estimate swale excavation volume, loose spoil, cross-sectional area, full truckloads and haul cost from length, top width, bottom width and depth.
Default project preview
14.81 yd³
Loose spoil
18.52 yd³
Cross-sectional area
4 ft²
Total swale length
100 ft
Truckloads
2
Calculator
Build the material order
Your order will appear here
Enter the project details and calculate a rounded material estimate.
Methodology
Transparent calculation
BuildMeter converts every input to a consistent internal unit, applies the selected allowance, and rounds products up to whole purchasable units.
Cross-section = (top width + bottom width) ÷ 2 × depth. Bank volume = cross-section × length × quantity. Loose spoil applies the entered swell.
FAQ
Swale Volume Calculator questions
What shape does the calculator assume?+
A uniform trapezoidal channel with constant top width, bottom width and depth.
Does volume determine drainage capacity?+
No. Capacity also depends on longitudinal slope, roughness, flow depth and outlet conditions.
What if the swale dimensions vary?+
Divide it into sections and calculate each section separately.