- 1). Use a measuring tape to measure the entire length of the yard (in feet). Make note of the length measurement.
- 2). Use a measuring tape to measure the entire width of the yard (in feet). Make note of the width measurement.
- 3). Convert the depth of the topsoil to a fraction of 12. Topsoil should be applied at a minimum depth of three inches, although it can be applied up to six inches deep. To convert this to a fraction of 12, simply place the number over 12. For example, a topsoil depth of three inches would be converted to a fraction as follows: 3/12. Using a calculator, divide 3 by 12 to arrive at a percentage of 0.25.
- 4). Multiply the width of the lawn by the length of the lawn and the depth of the topsoil (width x length x depth). For example, if the lawn is 120 feet by 130 feet and you want to apply three inches of topsoil, use the following calculation: 120 x 130 x 0.25 This calculation tells you how many cubic feet of topsoil is needed for the lawn.
- 5). Since topsoil is sold by the yard, you must convert the cubic feet number into cubic yards. To do this, divide the total cubic feet by 27.
- 6). Add three to five additional yards to the final number to account for spillage and you will have the total amount of topsoil needed to apply to the new lawn.
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