Cubic Yards Calculator
Cubic Yards Coverage at Common Depths
Square feet covered by 1 cubic yard at various depths.
| Depth | Area Covered (sq ft) | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| 1 inch | 324 | Light topdressing |
| 2 inches | 162 | Mulch refresh / gravel path |
| 3 inches | 108 | New mulch bed |
| 4 inches | 81 | Concrete slab / gravel drive |
| 6 inches | 54 | New lawn topsoil / deep base |
| 12 inches | 27 | Raised beds / deep fill |
How We Calculate This
This cubic yards calculator uses established formulas and industry-standard data to provide accurate estimates.
- Enter your specific values into the calculator fields above
- Our algorithm applies the relevant formulas using your inputs
- Results are calculated instantly in your browser — nothing is sent to a server
- Review the detailed breakdown to understand how each factor affects your result
These calculations are estimates based on standard formulas. For critical decisions, always consult a qualified professional.
How to Convert Oven Recipes to Air Fryer
A cubic yard is 3 feet × 3 feet × 3 feet = 27 cubic feet. This calculator converts dimensions in any unit to cubic yards for any common shape.
The basic rule:
- Rectangle: Length × Width × Depth. Cylinder: π × (diameter/2)² × height
- Triangle: ½ × base × height × depth. Trapezoid: ½ × (top + bottom) × height × length
- All measurements are converted to feet first, then the result in cubic feet is divided by 27 for cubic yards
This is a universal volume calculator. Use it for concrete, gravel, mulch, soil, sand, or any bulk material sold by the cubic yard. For material-specific calculations with weight and cost estimates, use our dedicated calculators.
When Would You Use This Calculator?
This cubic yards calculator is designed for anyone who needs quick, reliable estimates without complex spreadsheets or professional consultations.
- When you need a quick estimate before committing to a purchase or project
- When comparing different options or scenarios side by side
- When planning a budget and need to understand potential costs
- When you want to verify a quote or estimate you've received from a professional
- When teaching or learning about the concepts behind these calculations
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cubic feet are in a cubic yard?
There are exactly 27 cubic feet in one cubic yard. A cubic yard is 3 feet long, 3 feet wide, and 3 feet tall (3 x 3 x 3 = 27). To convert cubic feet to cubic yards, divide by 27.
How do I calculate cubic yards from inches?
Convert all measurements to feet first (divide inches by 12), then multiply length x width x depth to get cubic feet, then divide by 27 for cubic yards. Or use our calculator above — it handles unit conversion automatically.
How much area does a cubic yard cover?
One cubic yard covers: 324 sq ft at 1 inch deep, 162 sq ft at 2 inches, 108 sq ft at 3 inches, 81 sq ft at 4 inches, or 54 sq ft at 6 inches deep. The depth determines how far a cubic yard spreads.
How many wheelbarrows are in a cubic yard?
A standard 3-cubic-foot wheelbarrow holds about 1/9 of a cubic yard, so 9 wheelbarrow loads equal one cubic yard. A large 6-cubic-foot wheelbarrow takes about 5 loads. This is useful for estimating labor when moving material by hand.
What weighs more — a yard of gravel or a yard of mulch?
Gravel is much heavier. One cubic yard of gravel weighs 2,500-3,000 lbs. One cubic yard of mulch weighs 400-800 lbs. Concrete weighs about 4,000 lbs per yard, soil about 2,000-2,200 lbs, and sand about 2,700 lbs.
How many cubic yards fit in a pickup truck?
A full-size pickup truck bed holds about 2 cubic yards of mulch, 1 cubic yard of soil, or 0.5-1 cubic yard of gravel or stone (limited by weight, not volume). Never exceed your truck's payload rating — check the sticker on the driver's door jamb.