How Much Topsoil Do I Need for a 5x5 Area?
Planning a 5x5 ft area topped with 4 in of soil? Order about 0.32 yd³ (cubic yards to order (+5%)). Also: tons (about 1.2 t/yd³, +5%): 0.39 tons; cubic yards (exact): 0.31 yd³; cubic feet: 8.3 ft³.
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| Tons (about 1.2 t/yd³, +5%) | 0.39 tons |
|---|---|
| Cubic yards (exact) | 0.31 yd³ |
| Cubic feet | 8.3 ft³ |
| 2 cu ft bags | 5 bags |
How this number is calculated
5 ft × 5 ft × 4 in ÷ 12 = 8.3 cubic feet = 0.31 cubic yards. Add 5% for settling and uneven ground: 0.32 cubic yards (about 0.39 tons).
Nearby sizes
| Size | Cubic yards to order (+5%) |
|---|---|
| a 4x4 ft area topped with 4 in of soil | 0.21 yd³ |
| a 6x6 ft area topped with 4 in of soil | 0.47 yd³ |
| a 8x8 ft area topped with 4 in of soil | 0.83 yd³ |
| a 10x10 ft area topped with 4 in of soil | 1.30 yd³ |
Tips
- Topsoil weight varies a lot with moisture; the tonnage here is only a rough guide.
- Four inches is a common depth for new lawns; thin top-dressing needs only half an inch to an inch.
- Soil settles, so ordering 5–10% extra is normal.
Frequently asked questions
How much topsoil do I need for a 5x5 ft area topped with 4 in of soil?
Planning a 5x5 ft area topped with 4 in of soil? Order about 0.32 yd³ (cubic yards to order (+5%)). Also: tons (about 1.2 t/yd³, +5%): 0.39 tons; cubic yards (exact): 0.31 yd³; cubic feet: 8.3 ft³.
How is the quantity for a 5x5 ft area topped with 4 in of soil calculated?
5 ft × 5 ft × 4 in ÷ 12 = 8.3 cubic feet = 0.31 cubic yards. Add 5% for settling and uneven ground: 0.32 cubic yards (about 0.39 tons).
How much does topsoil for a 5x5 ft area topped with 4 in of soil cost?
Using rough planning prices (per cubic yard, bulk delivered), the material for a 5x5 ft area topped with 4 in of soil comes to about $4.86 to $16.20. Prices vary by region and supplier, so get a local quote.