Topsoil Calculator
Work out how much topsoil to order for a new lawn or a levelling job, in cubic yards and cubic metres.
Measure the ground the same way you would for the sod calculator: that one counts the rolls, this one the soil.
How much topsoil do you need?
Enter the area and the job. The depth fills in from the job; change it if you know yours.
Most new lawns start at 2 to 4 in of soil.
How deep to plan for
Keep the finished soil below the siding and weep holes, and low enough beside walks, patios and driveways to leave room for the sod.
Past about 6 inches, the job is usually fill rather than a topsoil layer: on a big drop-off, heavier fill dirt goes in first so the topsoil does not sink.
Does new sod need topsoil? covers whether your yard needs any added at all.
When topsoil is not the fix
A few shallow dips can often be filled with topsoil and finish-graded. Water running toward the house, or low spots that come back every season, need grading first. Sod is not a fix for drainage, and neither is a top-up.
How to level a backyard for new sod shows how to find the real problem spots. If the slope itself is wrong, the yard needs lawn grading; on a new sod lawn we quote the grading with the install.
Topsoil calculator questions
How many yards of topsoil do I need for 1,000 sq ft?
About 6.8 cubic yards (5.2 m³) at 2 inches deep, or 10.2 cubic yards (7.8 m³) at 3 inches. Both include 10% for settling.
Is it the same amount for triple mix?
Yes. Triple mix takes the same volume as topsoil, so the calculator works for either. To choose between them, see topsoil or triple mix for your new lawn.
Does Right On Sod sell or deliver topsoil?
No. We supply and spread screened topsoil as part of our sod installations and regrades, but we do not sell or deliver soil on its own.