Dirt Calculator
How much fill or topsoil to order from square footage and depth. Click any i for detail.
Fill area
Area (sq ft)
i
Area
Area you are filling or spreading. |
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Depth (inches)
i
Depth
Installed depth. Topdressing is often 1–2 in; fill can be much deeper. |
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Density (tons/yd³)
i
Density
Loose topsoil/fill is often ~1.2–1.4 tons/yd³. Wet clay is heavier. |
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Waste (%)
i
Waste
Extra for compaction, irregular edges, and settling. |
How to use this calculator
- Measure length × width for area.
- Enter the depth you intend to place.
- Use the supplier’s tons/yard if they sell by weight.
- Add waste for compaction and truck measurement.
Results explained
Same volume math as mulch or gravel. Dirt settles — compacted fill needs more inbound yards than the hole suggests.
Quick reference: dirt
A pickup truck “yard” is often 0.5–1 yd³ depending on the bed.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| 3 in over 100 sq ft | ≈ 0.93 yd³ |
| 12 in over 100 sq ft | ≈ 3.70 yd³ |
| Loose fill density | ~1.2–1.4 tons/yd³ |
| Compaction | Plan extra inbound yards |
Screened topsoil, fill dirt, and sand do not weigh the same.
How the estimate is built
cu yd = (sq ft × inches) ÷ 324, then × (1 + waste%). Tons = yards × density.
Example scenario
200 sq ft × 3 in with 10% waste ≈ 2.04 yd³ ≈ 2.5 tons at 1.25 t/yd³.
FAQ
Fill vs topsoil?
Volume math is identical. Do not plant in raw fill — use topsoil on the surface.
How much compaction?
Ask the grader. 10–20% extra inbound is a common planning range.
Cubic feet instead?
See the cubic feet and cubic yard calculators.