How Much Topsoil Do I Need for a 4x4 Area?
Short answer for a 4x4 ft area topped with 4 in of soil: about 0.21 yd³ (cubic yards to order (+5%)). Also: tons (about 1.2 t/yd³, +5%): 0.25 tons; cubic yards (exact): 0.20 yd³; cubic feet: 5.3 ft³.
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| Tons (about 1.2 t/yd³, +5%) | 0.25 tons |
|---|---|
| Cubic yards (exact) | 0.20 yd³ |
| Cubic feet | 5.3 ft³ |
| 2 cu ft bags | 3 bags |
How this number is calculated
4 ft × 4 ft × 4 in ÷ 12 = 5.3 cubic feet = 0.20 cubic yards. Add 5% for settling and uneven ground: 0.21 cubic yards (about 0.25 tons).
Nearby sizes
| Size | Cubic yards to order (+5%) |
|---|---|
| a 5x5 ft area topped with 4 in of soil | 0.32 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
- Soil settles, so ordering 5–10% extra is normal.
- 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.
Frequently asked questions
How much topsoil do I need for a 4x4 ft area topped with 4 in of soil?
Short answer for a 4x4 ft area topped with 4 in of soil: about 0.21 yd³ (cubic yards to order (+5%)). Also: tons (about 1.2 t/yd³, +5%): 0.25 tons; cubic yards (exact): 0.20 yd³; cubic feet: 5.3 ft³.
How is the quantity for a 4x4 ft area topped with 4 in of soil calculated?
4 ft × 4 ft × 4 in ÷ 12 = 5.3 cubic feet = 0.20 cubic yards. Add 5% for settling and uneven ground: 0.21 cubic yards (about 0.25 tons).
How much does topsoil for a 4x4 ft area topped with 4 in of soil cost?
Using rough planning prices (per cubic yard, bulk delivered), the material for a 4x4 ft area topped with 4 in of soil comes to about $3.11 to $10.37. Prices vary by region and supplier, so get a local quote.