How to Calculate Cubic Yards for Landscaping Projects in Calgary

If you’re planning a landscaping project in Calgary, one of the most common questions is: How much material do I actually need?
Ordering too little can delay your project, while ordering too much wastes money and space. Whether you’re working with topsoil, mulch, gravel, sand, or decorative rock, knowing how to calculate cubic yards is key to getting it right the first time.

What Is a Cubic Yard?

A cubic yard is a unit of volume used for bulk landscaping materials. One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet. Most landscape supply yards (including us) sell soil, mulch, gravel, and rock by the cubic yard.

How to Calculate Cubic Yards (Simple Formula)

To calculate the volume for a rectangular area:

Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Depth (in ÷ 12) ÷ 27 = Cubic Yards

For example:
If your garden bed is 20 ft long, 10 ft wide, and 3 inches deep:

20 × 10 × (3 ÷ 12) ÷ 27 = 1.85 cubic yards
You’d round up to about 2 cubic yards of material.

Use Our Free Cubic Yard Calculator

Instead of doing the math yourself every time, you can use our free online calculator:

👉 Cubic Yard Calculator for Landscaping Projects
https://directlandscapesupply.ca/pages/volume-calculator

Just enter your length, width, and depth, and it will instantly calculate the exact cubic yards you need for your project.

Common Landscaping Depth Guidelines

Here are a few typical depth ranges for common projects in Calgary:

• Topsoil for lawns or garden beds: 2–4 inches

• Mulch for tree beds and gardens: 3–4 inches

• Gravel or decorative rock: 2–3 inches

• Road crush / base material: 4–6 inches (compacted)

Using the right depth helps ensure proper drainage, weed control, and long-lasting results.

Why Accurate Calculations Matter

Accurate volume calculations help you:

• Avoid paying for extra material you don’t need

• Prevent delays caused by running short mid-project

• Plan delivery and access for bulk materials

• Budget your landscaping project more effectively

This is especially important for larger residential and commercial projects around Calgary where delivery logistics matter.

Order Bulk Landscaping Materials in Calgary

Once you know how much material you need, you can order bulk soil, mulch, gravel, sand, and rock for delivery across Calgary and surrounding areas.

Before you place your order, make sure to run your measurements through our calculator:
👉 https://directlandscapesupply.ca/pages/volume-calculator

It’s a quick way to double-check your numbers and make sure you’re ordering the right amount the first time.