Interactive Landscape material calculator
Estimated result
Enter measurements and select Calculate.
How to use this calculator
- Select gravel, topsoil, stone, or mulch.
- Choose dimensions or enter a known project area.
- Enter installed depth and an appropriate allowance.
- Use supplier density and pricing only when those values match the selected product.
Formula and method
Volume = area × depth. Adjusted volume includes the selected allowance. Weight is shown only when a bulk density is entered; cost uses only the entered price and selected pricing basis.
Worked example
A 300 ft² bed at 3 in deep contains 75 ft³, or about 2.78 yd³ before allowance. Material type alone does not create a tonnage estimate; enter the supplier density when weight is needed.
Assumptions and result interpretation
- Material selection organizes the plan but does not silently assign a universal density.
- Mulch, soil, gravel, and stone vary by product, moisture, particle size, and compaction.
- This broader tool supports material comparison; specialized pages provide deeper material-specific guidance.
Common mistakes
- Comparing materials by weight when one has no verified density
- Using bag weight as density
- Mixing price per yard with price per ton
- Assuming all parts of an irregular site have the same depth
Methodology sources
Conversions use deterministic factors. Variable material properties are either visibly sourced and editable or left for the user to enter from the supplier.
Results are planning estimates. Confirm actual requirements with the appropriate supplier, contractor, engineer, building official, or other qualified professional.