How Much Topsoil Do I Need?

So your ready to do some work around the yard. You need some topsoil. How much topsoil do I need? Read below and learn all you can about topsoil.

Topsoil Definition

The top 10 – 12 inches of surface soil. This soil includes the organic layer in which plants have most of their roots.

Screening Topsoil

The screening of topsoil is accomplished when placing the material into a screening machine. The screening machine will segregate materials into different stockpiles of materials. These materials will be of different dimensions. The finer material, we call Organic Screened Topsoil.

Types of Screening Machines

Trommel

A trommel screen, also known as a rotary screen, is a mechanical screening machine used to separate materials, mainly in the mineral and solid-waste processing industries. It consists of a perforated cylindrical drum that is normally elevated at an angle at the feed end.

Shaker

The shaker screening machine consist of a drive that induces vibration, a screen media that causes particle separation, and a deck which holds the screen media and the drive and is the mode of transport for the vibration. There are physical factors that makes screening practical.

How Much Topsoil Do I Need?

To calculate how much material you need, multiply the number of square feet in the area by the number of inches of topsoil you want to install. Divide that number by 324.

Topsoil Quantity Notes

1,000 square feet of land to a depth of 4 inches requires approximately 12 cubic yards of topsoil.

When you order 10 cubic yards you receive close to 11+ cubic yards of material with a purchase from Dirt Connections.

How Much Can a Dump Truck Carry?

Dump trucks can usually carry about 10 to 14 cubic yards of soil material.

How Much Does A Yard of Topsoil Cover?

One yard of soil material will cover 324 square feet of soil, spread at a depth of 1 inch, or 100 square feet of soil spread at a depth of 3 inches.

How Much Topsoil to Grow Grass?

Seeds, sod and plugs all require at least 4 to 6 inches of good soil cover.

Bulk Topsoil Purchase

Bulk material purchase costs can be between $12 and $55 per cubic yard, plus and or including delivery. Exact rates can depend on moisture content, type of organic materials, geographic and economic location.

20 Cubic Yards of Material Delivery Dimensions

15 feet long, 12 feet wide and 3 feet high.

10 Cubic Yards of Material Delivery Dimensions

7 feet long, 12 feet wide and 3 feet high.

Plan for Delivery

In most cases, you will likely want the soil products delivered. You need to determine where you want the soil dumped when it arrives. A truck full of soil will be weighty and driving across your lawn will leave ruts. If the ground is wet, the truck’s wheels may spin and even get stuck. We do not drive on landowner’s property. Delivery questions please contact our office.

How Much Do Our Loaded Dump Trucks Weigh

62,000 – 70,000 Pounds

30 – 36 Tons

Delivery Suggestions

 

Lay down a large tarp, on or alongside of the driveway. This provides for quick and easy cleanup.

Protect Your Topsoil

Cover your material purchase with a tarp. Rain will compact the soil and make it heavier to move.

What is Topsoil Used For?

Planting Beds

Topsoil with fertilizer and organic matter provides better results for your plants.

Lawn Repair

Spread a 1-inch-thick layer of soil over that damaged lawn area. Broadcast grass seeds to the topsoil surface area. Work the seeds into the soil with a rake. Provide daily watering, and new grass should sprout in one to two weeks.

Effective Topsoil Use and Delivery

When planning for topsoil, consider both the quantity and quality to meet your needs. For optimal results, ensure you have at least 4 to 6 inches of topsoil for growing grass or planting beds. It’s crucial to calculate the amount needed based on the area and desired depth. Also, plan for delivery by choosing a suitable location that avoids wet or sensitive areas. Protect your topsoil with a tarp to prevent compaction from rain. Following these steps will help you achieve a successful landscape project.