Calculator
Fill values, then press Calculate to see results above.
Example data table
Illustrative values for quick validation. Adjust pricing to match your supplier.
| Scenario | Area | Depth | Waste | Volume | Pricing | Estimated total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small lawn | 200 sq ft | 3 in | 8% | ~0.20 yd³ | 45 per yd³ | ~9.00 |
| Garden bed | 20 m² | 8 cm | 10% | ~1.76 m³ | 35 per m³ | ~61.60 |
| Bagged soil | 120 sq ft | 2 in | 5% | ~3 bags | 6 per 40 L | ~18.00 |
Totals above exclude delivery, tax, and discounts for simplicity.
Formula used
- Rectangle: Area = Length × Width
- Circle: Area = π × (Diameter ÷ 2)²
- Area only: Use your measured area directly
- Base volume: V = Area × Depth
- Waste: Vw = V × (1 + Waste% ÷ 100)
- Cost: Material = OrderQty × UnitPrice
- Tax: Tax = (Material + Delivery − Discount) × TaxRate%
Weight estimate uses: tonnes = volume(m³) × density(kg/m³) ÷ 1000.
How to use this calculator
- Select a unit system that matches your measurements.
- Choose an area method: rectangle, circle, or direct area entry.
- Enter depth, then add a realistic waste factor.
- Pick a pricing mode and enter your supplier’s unit price.
- Optional: include delivery fee, discounts, and a tax rate.
- Enable rounding to avoid ordering short of the needed quantity.
- Press Calculate; download CSV or PDF for your records.
1) Scope of topsoil estimating
Topsoil estimating begins by defining the work zone and target finish grade. This calculator fits lawns, beds, and backfill where a uniform depth is planned. It reports volume in cubic yards, cubic meters, and cubic feet, then applies your pricing. Use it for budgeting and for final ordering with confidence.
2) Measuring area correctly
Measure area from drawings, stakeout, or field tape. For rectangles, multiply length by width in matching units. For circles, enter diameter for rings or tree wells and let the π formula run. For irregular sites, split into sections, calculate each, then add results for one order; check units before entering values.
3) Selecting depth for performance
Depth strongly controls volume. Typical topdressing is 25–75 mm, while new lawns often need 75–150 mm. Enter depth in inches or centimeters and consider compaction after placement and watering. If the base varies, average several probe readings. When uncertain, model two depths and compare totals for planning accuracy.
4) Waste and shrink allowances
Waste accounts for grade corrections, spillage, and uneven subgrade. A practical allowance is 5–15% for simple residential work and 10–20% for complex grading. The calculator applies waste as a multiplier so the math stays clear. If you expect blending shrink, increase waste slightly to avoid shortages on site.
5) Conversions and rounding strategy
Suppliers sell by cubic yard, cubic meter, or bag, and they often require rounding. Enable rounding to match delivery increments such as quarter‑yard steps. Automatic conversions let you compare quotes across unit systems. For bagged soil, the tool rounds up to whole bags using liters per bag every time.
6) Pricing inputs that match quotes
Cost accuracy improves when the price basis matches the quote. Enter the unit price for your selected mode, add delivery, and subtract discounts for contractor rates. If taxes apply, include the rate to produce a complete total. Confirm whether screened, compost‑blended, or colored soil changes pricing in writing first.
7) Delivery and access considerations
Delivery logistics can swing costs. Add a flat delivery fee for dump trucks, super sacks, or pallets. Consider access limits, gate widths, and haul distance from curb to placement. If you need multiple loads, estimate each load size and sum delivery fees to avoid underestimating the final spend per trip.
8) Documentation and job control
Good records protect schedules and margins. After calculating, download CSV or PDF for quotes, purchase orders, or change requests. Record the assumed depth, waste percent, and density so crews can validate quantities. Recalculate when scope changes, then keep the file in the job folder for easy review during closeout meetings.
FAQs
1) What depth should I use for a new lawn?
Many lawns perform well with 75–150 mm of quality topsoil. Use your spec, local climate, and subgrade condition. Run two depths to see budget impact before ordering.
2) How do I choose a waste percentage?
Start at 5–10% for simple, flat areas. Use 10–20% for uneven grades, lots of edging, or uncertain subgrade. Increase slightly if you expect blending or regrading.
3) Why does the calculator show several volume units?
Suppliers quote in different units. Showing yd³, m³, and ft³ lets you compare bids, verify conversions, and avoid mistakes when switching between drawings and delivery tickets.
4) When should I turn on rounding?
Turn it on when your supplier delivers in fixed increments, such as 0.25 yd³ or 0.5 m³. Rounding up reduces the risk of short orders and job delays.
5) How accurate is the weight estimate?
It is an approximation based on volume and bulk density. Moisture, organic content, and compaction can change density. Use local supplier data if available for better truckload planning.
6) How do I handle multiple separate areas?
Calculate each area with its own dimensions and depth, then add the resulting volumes. If delivery fees apply per load, estimate loads separately and sum delivery charges.
7) Can I use this for raised beds or planters?
Yes. Use the rectangle or circle method and enter the fill depth. For stepped beds, split into layers with different depths, then total the volumes to estimate the order.