Topsoil Calculator

How to Calculate Topsoil for Your Project

Topsoil is the foundation of any successful lawn or garden. This nutrient-rich layer of soil supports plant growth, retains moisture, and provides essential minerals for healthy vegetation. Our free topsoil calculator helps you determine exactly how much you need, whether you're establishing a new lawn, building raised garden beds, or improving existing soil.

Understanding Topsoil Measurements

Topsoil is typically sold by the cubic yard for bulk delivery or by the bag for small projects. Here's how the measurements work:

1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet = covers 324 sq ft at 1" deep
1 cubic yard of topsoil weighs approximately 1,800-2,200 lbs (0.9-1.1 tons)
1 ton of topsoil = approximately 0.9-1.1 cubic yards
40 lb bag = 0.75 cubic feet (approximately 36 bags per cubic yard)

Recommended Topsoil Depths

Project Type	Minimum Depth	Recommended Depth	Notes
Lawn topdressing	0.5"	1-2"	Apply after aeration for best results
New lawn establishment	4"	6"	Over compacted subsoil
Flower beds	4"	6-8"	Mix with existing soil
Vegetable gardens	6"	8-12"	Use garden mix for best results
Raised beds	8"	12-18"	Full bed depth
Tree planting	12"	18-24"	Backfill mixed 50/50 with native soil

Types of Topsoil

Not all topsoil is created equal. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right product for your project:

Standard/Unscreened Topsoil

Natural soil with organic matter intact
May contain rocks, roots, and debris
Best for: filling, rough grading, large areas
Cost: $15-25 per cubic yard

Screened Topsoil

Filtered through screens to remove debris
Consistent texture, easy to spread
Best for: lawns, gardens, fine grading
Cost: $25-40 per cubic yard

Premium/Certified Topsoil

Lab-tested for composition and contaminants
Often blended to optimal ratios
Best for: vegetable gardens, high-end landscaping
Cost: $35-55 per cubic yard

Garden Mix/Planting Mix

Topsoil blended with compost and amendments
Enhanced drainage and nutrition
Best for: raised beds, container gardens, vegetables
Cost: $40-75 per cubic yard

2025 Topsoil Pricing Guide

Topsoil prices vary significantly based on quality, source, and location. Here's what to expect in 2025:

Bulk Topsoil Prices (per cubic yard)

Topsoil Type	Price Range	Average Price
Unscreened topsoil	$15-25	$20
Screened topsoil	$25-40	$32
Premium loam	$35-55	$45
Garden mix	$40-75	$55
Organic topsoil	$45-80	$60

Delivery Costs

Load Size	Delivery Fee	Notes
1-3 cubic yards	$50-100	Small truck, tight access OK
4-10 cubic yards	$75-150	Standard dump truck
10+ cubic yards	Often free	Full load discount

Bagged vs. Bulk: When to Choose Each

Factor	Bagged Topsoil	Bulk Delivery
Best for quantities	Under 2 cubic yards	Over 3 cubic yards
Cost per cubic yard	$100-180	$25-55
Convenience	Buy as needed	One delivery, requires wheelbarrow
Quality consistency	Very consistent	Varies by supplier

Tips for Buying Quality Topsoil

What to Look For

Color: Dark brown to black indicates good organic content
Texture: Should crumble easily, not stick together
Smell: Earthy, like forest floor—not sour or chemical
Content: No visible trash, minimal rocks, no large clumps

Questions to Ask Suppliers

Where does the topsoil come from?
Is it screened? What size screen?
Has it been tested for contaminants?
What's the organic matter content?
Can I see a sample before ordering?

Red Flags to Avoid

Extremely cheap topsoil (often just fill dirt)
Strong odors (contamination)
Very light color (low organic matter)
Unknown or suspicious source
Visible construction debris

Preparing Your Site for Topsoil

Clear the area: Remove rocks, debris, and vegetation
Grade the subsoil: Create desired slope (1-2% away from structures)
Loosen existing soil: Till or fork the top 2-3 inches
Apply topsoil: Spread evenly, avoiding compaction
Rake and settle: Water lightly to settle, then final grade

Frequently Asked Questions

How much topsoil do I need for 1000 square feet?

For 1,000 sq ft: At 2" depth = 6.2 cubic yards (for topdressing). At 4" depth = 12.3 cubic yards (new lawn). At 6" depth = 18.5 cubic yards (garden beds). One cubic yard of topsoil weighs approximately 1-1.3 tons.

How many cubic yards of topsoil in a ton?

Topsoil weighs about 1,800-2,200 lbs per cubic yard (0.9-1.1 tons). So 1 ton equals approximately 0.9-1.1 cubic yards. Wet topsoil can weigh 30-50% more than dry topsoil, affecting delivery weights.

What is the difference between topsoil and garden soil?

Topsoil is natural soil from the top 2-8 inches of ground, containing organic matter and nutrients. Garden soil (or garden mix) is topsoil blended with compost, peat, and amendments for enhanced plant growth. Garden soil costs 20-40% more but provides better drainage and nutrition.

How deep should topsoil be for grass?

For a healthy lawn: 4-6 inches minimum depth is recommended. 2-4 inches for topdressing existing lawns, 6-8 inches for optimal root development. Grass roots typically grow 4-6 inches deep, so deeper topsoil improves drought resistance.

Should I use screened or unscreened topsoil?

Screened topsoil is filtered to remove rocks, roots, and debris—best for lawns, gardens, and fine grading. Unscreened topsoil is cheaper and suitable for filling, rough grading, and areas where debris doesn't matter. Screened costs $5-15 more per cubic yard but is much easier to work with.

Free Topsoil Calculator