How to use it
- Enter length in feet.
- Enter width in feet.
- Enter depth in inches.
- Read cubic yards, tons and cubic feet results.
What it does – The Fill Dirt Calculator takes the length and width of the area you plan to cover and the desired depth, then instantly converts those dimensions into three useful measures: cubic yards, cubic feet, and an approximate tonnage. Why it matters – Contractors, landscapers, and DIY homeowners need accurate volume estimates to order the right amount of material, avoid costly over‑orders, and ensure the ground is properly compacted. How to read the results – Cubic yards is the standard unit suppliers use for pricing; cubic feet helps you visualize the space; tons gives a quick weight estimate using the industry standard 1.3 US tons per cubic yard. For example, a 20 ft × 15 ft area at 6 in depth equals 5.6 yd³, which is about 7.3 tons. Use the numbers to request quotes and plan delivery.
Pro tips
- Add a 10% waste allowance to cover settling and spillage.
- Round up to the nearest whole yard when ordering to avoid shortfalls.
- Confirm your supplier’s tonnage conversion if they use a different weight per yard.
- Double‑check depth conversion from inches to feet before entering data.
Real-life examples
- Homeowner leveling a backyard for a new patio.
- Contractor preparing foundation fill for a deck build.
- Landscaper estimating soil volume for a garden berm.
Case study
Mike needed to fill a 12 ft × 20 ft area to a 4‑in depth for his new patio. Using the calculator he saw he required 3.6 yd³, roughly 4.7 tons. He ordered 5 tons, avoiding a shortfall and saving a delivery fee, and the patio was ready on schedule.