Topsoil: Depth, Weight & Grades
Screened, blended, or fill — how to spec and order the right topsoil.
Weight
~2,000–2,700 lb per cubic yard
Density
75–100 lb/ft³
Coverage
1 cubic yard covers 100 sq ft at 3″, 55 sq ft at 6″, or 27 sq ft at 12″.
Calculate topsoil for your project
Topsoil is the top 6–12″ of native soil, ideally rich in organic matter. Bulk topsoil is sold by the yard; a screened blend with compost is standard for lawns and gardens.
For new lawns, spread 4–6″ over graded subsoil. For beds, 8–12″. For repairing low spots, match the surrounding depth.
Weight varies widely with moisture: dry screened topsoil is ~2,000 lb/yd³, wet topsoil can exceed 3,000 lb/yd³. Order by volume, not weight.
Common uses
- New lawn installation
- Raised beds and gardens
- Grading and low-spot repair
- Tree and shrub planting
Types of topsoil
Screened topsoil
Sifted to remove rocks and debris. Standard for lawns.
Garden blend
Topsoil + compost + sand. Rich, well-draining.
Fill dirt
Unscreened. Structural fill, not for growing.
Loam
Balanced sand/silt/clay. The gold standard for growing.
Frequently asked
How deep should topsoil be for grass?
4–6 inches over prepared subsoil for new lawns.
How much does a yard of topsoil weigh?
About 2,000 lb dry, up to 2,700 lb wet.
What's the difference between topsoil and fill dirt?
Topsoil is nutrient-rich and screened for growing; fill dirt is subsoil used for grading and structural fill.