Topsoil is typically the upper 6–12 inches of native soil and is used for lawns, gardens, planting and grading. For new lawns, apply 4–6 inches; for garden beds, use 8–12 inches. A cubic yard typically weighs 2,000–2,700 lb, although wet topsoil can exceed 3,000 lb.
Screened, blended, or fill—learn how to specify and order the right topsoil.
How much does topsoil weigh?
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″.
How do I calculate how much topsoil I need?
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.
What is topsoil used for?
- New lawn installation
- Raised beds and gardens
- Grading and low-spot repair
- Tree and shrub planting
Which types of topsoil are there?
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.
What else do people ask about topsoil?
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.