Topsoil Calculator
Calculate the volume and weight of topsoil needed for new lawns, garden beds and landscaping projects. Enter the area dimensions and depth — our topsoil calculator provides instant results in cubic yards, cubic metres and tonnes.
How to Use This Calculator
- Select Imperial or Metric units.
- Enter the length and width of the area.
- Enter the depth of topsoil required.
- Results appear immediately with a +10% overage recommendation.
Topsoil Volume Formula
Cubic Yards = Volume (m³) × 1.30795
Tonnes = Volume (m³) × 1.3
Topsoil Application Tips
- Test your existing soil before adding topsoil — you may only need amendments rather than a full layer.
- Spread topsoil with a rake to achieve an even depth across the area.
- Allow for 15–20% settling when calculating depth, especially on new ground.
- Mix topsoil into the upper few inches of existing soil to prevent a hard boundary layer.
- Loam-based topsoil (with good clay and sand balance) is ideal for most plants and lawns.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much topsoil do I need for a new lawn? +
A new lawn needs 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) of topsoil for healthy grass establishment. For a 1,000 sq ft lawn at 4 inches deep, you need about 12.4 cubic yards. Enter your dimensions in our calculator.
How deep should topsoil be for a raised bed? +
Raised vegetable beds need at least 12 inches (30 cm) of topsoil (or a mix of topsoil, compost and other amendments). Flower beds can do well with 6–8 inches.
How much does a cubic yard of topsoil weigh? +
Topsoil weighs approximately 1,000–1,300 kg per cubic metre (1.7–2.2 tonnes per cubic yard), depending on moisture content. Our calculator uses 1.3 t/m³ as the average.
What is the difference between topsoil and garden soil? +
Topsoil is the upper layer of natural soil — it is what you find in your garden naturally. Bagged garden soil is a manufactured blend of topsoil, compost and other amendments designed for beds and containers.
Can I buy topsoil by the cubic yard? +
Yes. Landscaping suppliers sell bulk topsoil by the cubic yard. For projects over 2–3 cubic yards, bulk delivery is significantly cheaper than buying bags.