Example Data Table
| Scenario | Inputs | Approx. Output |
|---|---|---|
| Sheet mulch bed | 60×40 cm, 4 mm, 2 layers, qty 10 | ~0.00192 m³ (before waste) |
| Storage stack | 50×40×30 cm, qty 1 | ~0.06000 m³ |
| Long roll coverage | 60 cm wide, 500 cm long, 4 mm, 2 layers | ~0.00240 m³ (sheet method) |
Formula Used
- Sheet volume: V = (L × W) × T × Layers
- Stack volume: V = L × W × H
- Quantity: Vgross = V × Quantity
- Waste: Vwaste = Vgross × (1 + Waste%/100)
- Compaction: Vnet = Vwaste × (1 − Compaction%/100)
- Weight (optional): Mass = Vnet × Density
How to Use This Calculator
- Select Sheet / Stack or Roll.
- Pick your measurement unit and enter the dimensions.
- For sheet mulching, set Stack Height to 0.
- Enter thickness and layers to match your cardboard plan.
- Add waste and compaction percentages for realistic totals.
- Press Calculate to see results above the form.
- Use CSV or PDF buttons to export the result table.
Notes for Garden Use
Cardboard Volume Planning for Garden Projects
Why volume matters for sheet mulching
Cardboard is usually measured by surface coverage, but volume becomes important when you need to transport, store, or estimate weight. This calculator converts your chosen dimensions into cubic meters, liters, and cubic feet so you can compare a flat-bed load, a storage bin, or a composting bay capacity with one consistent number.
The unit selector helps when your tape measure is in centimeters or inches, while the output remains comparable across jobs. Behind the scenes, values are converted to meters before volume is computed, then reported again in familiar units. This makes it easier to reuse results in planting plans, delivery quotes, and storage labels without rework.
Choosing the right input method
Use the Sheet/Stack mode for flattened sheets, bundles, or boxed stacks where you can measure length, width, and an optional stack height. Use the Roll method for long coverage where width and length define area, then thickness and layers build the total volume. Switching modes keeps the data entry aligned with how gardeners actually handle cardboard.
Thickness, layers, and practical ranges
Single-wall cardboard often falls near 3–5 mm, while heavier double-wall pieces can exceed 6–8 mm. Two layers improve light blocking and reduce gaps at overlaps, but they also raise volume quickly. If you are mixing box types, measure a small sample stack and use the average thickness for a more reliable estimate.
Waste and compaction adjustments
Real projects include trimming, overlaps, torn pieces, and irregular shapes. Add a waste percentage to cover those losses, especially for windy beds or curved borders. Compaction is useful when cardboard is soaked, stomped into place, or packed tightly for storage; the same sheets occupy less space once they settle.
Using results for logistics and budgeting
After calculation, compare the net volume with container capacities (totes, trailers, or garden carts) and plan trips accordingly. If you enter density, the estimated mass helps you avoid overloading a vehicle and can support cost-per-load planning when cardboard is purchased, delivered, or processed alongside mulch and compost.
FAQs
1) What thickness should I enter for typical cardboard?
Use 3–5 mm for most shipping boxes. For heavier double-wall material, try 6–8 mm. If uncertain, stack ten sheets, measure total height, then divide by ten for an average thickness.
2) Should I use Sheet/Stack or Roll?
Choose Sheet/Stack when you have individual sheets, bundles, or measured stack height. Choose Roll when you are covering long runs where width and length define the area you will lay down.
3) How do I estimate layers for weed suppression?
One layer often blocks light in calm areas, but two layers reduce gaps and edge lifting. Add waste for overlaps and seams. In tough perennial zones, consider two layers plus thicker mulch.
4) What waste percentage is reasonable?
Start with 5–10% for straight beds and clean sheets. Use 10–20% for windy sites, curved borders, or mixed box shapes. Increase further if you plan wide overlaps for durability.
5) When should I apply compaction?
Use compaction when sheets will be soaked, packed, or compressed in storage. A small 5–15% value fits most cases. Leave it at 0% for dry, loosely stacked cardboard.
6) Is the weight estimate accurate?
It is an estimate based on your density input. Cardboard density varies with moisture, glue, coatings, and voids. For better accuracy, weigh a known volume sample and calculate density from that measurement.