Topsoil & Mulch Calculator

Calculate topsoil, mulch, compost, or bark volume in cubic meters and weight in tonnes. Automatically adjusts for material settling.

Part of the Landscaping & Site Work calculators — see all tools in this category.

Coverage Area

Total area to be covered

mm

50-75mm for mulch, 100-150mm for topsoil

Material
Density: 1.4 t/m³|Use: Garden beds, lawns
Adjustments

Auto-set from material. Override if needed.

Materials settle after spreading. Factor of 1.2 = order 20% extra to achieve target depth.
%

Typical waste is 5-10% for landscape materials

Cost Estimate (Optional)
$

Optional: material cost per cubic meter

$

Optional: material cost per tonne

Enter one or the other (price per m³ takes precedence)

Results

Volume to Order
1.26

With settling & waste

Weight
1.76tonnes

Total weight to order

Base Volume
1

Area × Depth

Density Used
1.4t/m³

Material density

Calculation: Base 1 m³ × Settling 1.2 × Waste 1.05 = 1.26

How It Works

This calculator helps you determine the volume and weight of topsoil, mulch, compost, or bark needed for your landscaping project. It automatically accounts for material settling to ensure you achieve your target depth.

How to Use

  1. Enter the area to cover in square meters
  2. Enter the desired depth (50-100mm typical for mulch, 100-150mm for topsoil)
  3. Select your material type - each has different density and settling rate
  4. The calculator automatically applies the settling factor for your material
  5. Order the displayed volume to achieve your target depth after settling

Recommended Depths

ApplicationRecommended Depth
Weed suppression (mulch)50-75mm
Garden mulch (general)75-100mm
New lawn (topsoil)100-150mm
Garden bed prep (topsoil)150-200mm

Understanding Settling Factor

Unlike compacted aggregates, landscape materials settle naturally over time. The settling factor accounts for this:

  • Topsoil: 1.2 factor (settles ~20%)
  • Compost: 1.3 factor (settles ~30%)
  • Bark Mulch: 1.25 factor (settles ~25%)
  • Wood Chips: 1.2 factor (settles ~20%)

Formula

Base Volume: Area (m²) × Depth (m)
Volume to Order: Base Volume × Settling Factor × (1 + Waste %)
Weight: Volume to Order × Density (t/m³)

Frequently Asked Questions

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Topsoil & Mulch Calculator | Volume and Weight Calculator | ConstructCalculators