Topsoil Calculator
Calculate topsoil volume, cubic yards or metres, bag quantity, bulk loads and material cost for lawns and raised areas.
Default project preview
2.72 yd³
Bag quantity
74 bags
Base volume
2.47 yd³
Coverage area
200 ft²
Bulk cost
$114.07
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.
Volume = length × width × depth. Order volume = volume × settlement factor. Bags = round up (order volume ÷ bag volume).
BuildMeter Guides
Understand the measurements and assumptions
Use these visible reference guides before changing project inputs or planning allowances.
FAQ
Topsoil Calculator questions
How deep should new topsoil be?+
The required depth depends on the existing soil and intended planting. Lawn repairs may use a thin layer, while new beds can require several inches.
Why include settlement allowance?+
Loose soil settles after spreading and watering, so an allowance helps reach the intended finished grade.
Are cubic yards and tonnes interchangeable?+
No. Weight depends on soil composition and moisture. This calculator estimates volume.