Landscape Grading & Topsoil Calculator
Calculate the volume, weight, and estimated cost of topsoil needed to grade and fill a landscape area to a desired depth.
Enter 0 if flat. Used to estimate extra fill on the low side.
Typical loose topsoil compacts 15–25% after settling.
Leave blank to skip cost estimate.
Formulas Used
Area: A = Length × Width (ft²)
Slope Extra Depth: dslope = (Slope% ÷ 100) × Width ÷ 2 (ft) — triangular wedge average across the graded width
Effective Average Depth: deff = dbase + dslope (ft)
Net Volume (in place): Vnet = A × deff (ft³) → ÷ 27 = yd³
Loose Volume to Order: Vloose = Vnet ÷ (1 − Compaction Factor) — accounts for settling after placement
Weight: W = Vloose (yd³) × 2,000 lb/yd³
Total Cost: Cost = Vloose × Price/yd³ + Delivery Fee
Assumptions & References
- Topsoil bulk density assumed at 2,000 lb/cu yd (≈ 74 lb/cu ft) for typical loamy topsoil — USDA NRCS standard reference.
- Compaction factor of 15–25% is typical for loose topsoil after watering and settling (Landscape Industry standard).
- Slope extra fill uses a triangular wedge model: the low end needs extra fill equal to slope% × width, averaged across the area.
- A standard pickup truck carries approximately 0.5 cubic yards; a dump truck carries approximately 10 cubic yards.
- Recommended topsoil depth: 4–6 inches for lawns, 8–12 inches for gardens (University of Minnesota Extension).
- Recommended finished grade slope away from structures: 2–5% (IRC R401.3 / landscape best practice).
- This calculator does not account for existing soil removal, soil amendments, or labor costs.