Free estimate — verify against local code before building
Landscape Materials Calculator
Mulch, soil, gravel, and sand by bags, cubic yards, tons, and cost.
What this calculator includes
Measure a rectangular bed, circular area, or enter total square footage, then choose mulch, topsoil, gravel, or sand. The calculator converts depth into cubic feet and yards, adds editable waste and compaction allowances, compares bags with bulk yards and tons, estimates delivery and cost, and creates a shopping list. Density, bag size, and supplier pricing stay editable because real products vary.
Choose the calculator that matches the purchase
Dedicated tools expose the package, delivery, compaction, and cost assumptions unique to that material. Use the general calculator below for topsoil, sand, or a quick mixed-material comparison.
How to use this landscape materials calculator
- 01
Measure the project
Use length and width for a rectangle, diameter for a circle, or enter the combined square footage for an irregular bed. Split complicated areas into simple shapes and add their areas.
- 02
Choose material and depth
Typical planning depths are 3 inches for mulch, 4 inches for topsoil, and 2 inches for decorative gravel or sand. The project and supplier may call for a different compacted depth.
- 03
Review allowances
Waste covers uneven edges and handling loss. Compaction or settling is applied after waste so the installed layer can still reach the target depth. Edit both assumptions for the actual material and site.
- 04
Compare bags and bulk
The results always show bags, cubic yards, and estimated tons. Choose how you plan to buy, enter the quoted unit price, and confirm the final density, minimum order, and delivery increment with the supplier.
Calculation sources and review
Primary references and formula assumptions are linked so you can verify them against the selected product, supplier, and adopted local requirements.
Internal formula review completed July 13, 2026. What this review covers
- Lowe's — mulch buying and depth guidance (opens in a new tab)
General depth and landscape-use guidance; product coverage still controls.
Frequently asked questions
How many bags of mulch are in a cubic yard?
A cubic yard contains 27 cubic feet, so it equals about fourteen 2 cu ft bags, eighteen 1.5 cu ft bags, or nine 3 cu ft bags. The calculator rounds up after waste and settling allowances.
How much area does one cubic yard cover?
One cubic yard covers 324 sq ft at 1 inch deep, 162 sq ft at 2 inches, 108 sq ft at 3 inches, or 81 sq ft at 4 inches before waste and compaction allowances.
How many tons are in a cubic yard of gravel or topsoil?
A planning estimate is about 1.4 tons per cubic yard for gravel and 1.1 tons per cubic yard for topsoil. Moisture, stone size, and compaction change density, so use the supplier's figure when available.
Should I buy landscape material in bags or bulk?
Bags are convenient for small or hard-to-access projects. Around one cubic yard, bulk delivery often reduces cost and handling, but local delivery fees and minimum orders decide the real break-even point.
How much extra should I order for settling or compaction?
Ten percent is a common planning allowance for mulch and decorative stone, while loose topsoil may need 10–20%. Use the installed-depth requirement and your supplier's recommendation for the specific product.