Mulch, Soil, and Gravel Calculator 🌱

How to Use the Mulch, Soil, and Gravel Calculator

Select your material type (mulch, topsoil, gravel, or sand), choose your measurement system, and enter your coverage area dimensions (length and width). Then specify the desired depth of coverage. The calculator automatically adds your chosen waste allowance percentage and calculates the total volume in cubic yards or cubic meters, along with bag quantities for bagged materials and weight estimates for delivery planning.

Material Planning Tips

• Mulch beds: Apply 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) for weed suppression and moisture retention. Replenish annually as mulch decomposes.
• Topsoil for gardens: Use 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) for vegetable gardens and raised beds to provide adequate root depth.
• Gravel driveways: Apply 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) of compacted gravel for stable vehicle traffic. Use a compacted base layer first.
• Sand for playgrounds: Install 9-12 inches (23-30 cm) of play sand for proper cushioning and safety under play equipment.
• Always order 10-15% extra material to account for settling, compaction, spillage, and uneven terrain.
• Consider delivery costs—bulk materials are often more economical than bagged products for large projects.

Typical Coverage Guidelines

Understanding Cubic Yard vs Cubic Meter

Cubic yard: A cubic yard is a volume measurement equal to a cube that is 3 feet on each side (3 ft × 3 ft × 3 ft = 27 cubic feet). This is the standard unit for bulk landscaping materials in the United States.

Cubic meter: A cubic meter is the metric equivalent, equal to a cube that is 1 meter on each side (1 m × 1 m × 1 m). One cubic yard equals approximately 0.765 cubic meters.

Most landscape supply companies sell materials by the cubic yard (or fraction thereof) for bulk delivery, or in pre-packaged bags measured in cubic feet or liters. When ordering, confirm the measurement units with your supplier.