Soil Volume Calculator

Soil Volume Calculator Guide

This calculator helps you determine the exact amount of soil needed for any shaped area. Whether you're filling a rectangular garden bed, creating a circular planting area, or working with irregular shapes, we've got you covered.

Shape Formulas

• Rectangle: Length x Width x Depth
• Circle: π x Radius² x Depth
• Triangle: (Base x Height ÷ 2) x Depth
• Trapezoid: ((Base1 + Base2) ÷ 2 x Height) x Depth

Soil Type Densities

• Topsoil: 1.2 tons/yd³ (1.6 tonnes/m³)
• Garden Soil: 1.3 tons/yd³ (1.7 tonnes/m³)
• Potting Mix: 0.8 tons/yd³ (1.1 tonnes/m³)
• Compost: 1.0 tons/yd³ (1.35 tonnes/m³)
• Fill Dirt: 1.5 tons/yd³ (2.0 tonnes/m³)

Tips for Complex Areas

• Break irregular areas into multiple simple shapes
• Calculate each shape separately
• Add all volumes together for total needed
• Consider slopes and grade changes
• Account for existing soil that may be reused

Common Project Depths

• New lawn: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
• Garden beds: 8-12 inches (20-30 cm)
• Raised beds: 12-18 inches (30-45 cm)
• Tree planting: 2-3 times root ball depth
• Topdressing: 0.5-1 inch (1.3-2.5 cm)