Ordering too little means a second delivery. Ordering too much means a pile left in the driveway. Here’s how to work out how much gravel, soil, mulch or sand you need before you call.
The formula
Length (ft) × width (ft) × depth (inches) ÷ 12 ÷ 27 = cubic yards
Dividing by 12 turns the depth into feet, and dividing by 27 turns cubic feet into cubic yards (there are 27 cubic feet in a cubic yard).
A quick example
A garden bed 20 ft long and 10 ft wide, covered 3 inches deep:
20 × 10 × 3 ÷ 12 ÷ 27 = 1.85 cubic yards, so you’d order 2 yards.
How far does a yard go?
| Depth | One cubic yard covers about |
|---|---|
| 1 inch | 324 sq ft |
| 2 inches | 162 sq ft |
| 3 inches | 108 sq ft |
| 4 inches | 81 sq ft |
| 6 inches | 54 sq ft |
Converting yards to tons
Stone is often quoted by weight. As a rule of thumb, 1 cubic yard of clear stone weighs about 1.3 tons and 1 cubic yard of granular material about 1.5 tons.
Plan for compaction
Materials that pack down need a little extra. 3/4 crush compacts to about 3/4 of its loose depth, and limestone screenings to about 2/3, so add that to your order.
Skip the math
Use our material calculator: enter your measurements and it does the rest. These numbers are always estimates, so give us a call and we’ll help you confirm before you order.
Ready to order? Call (416) 557-0708 for today’s price or send us a quote request. We offer same-day delivery across the GTA and pickup at our North York yard.