The fastest way: use the calculator on every Ottr product page — enter your area's square footage and desired depth, and it spits out cubic yards needed. If you want to check the math by hand: (Square Feet × Depth in inches) ÷ 324 = Cubic Yards.
Three ways to size your material order
1. Use the on-page calculator (easiest)
Every Ottr product page has a built-in Material Estimator in the collapsible panel below the price. Enter project length, width, and desired depth — it calculates cubic yards instantly and rounds for you.
2. Calculate by hand (formula method)
- Measure your area in feet: length × width = square feet
- Decide depth in inches (typical: 3" mulch refresh, 4" driveway top coat, 12" raised bed)
- Apply the formula:
(SqFt × Depth) ÷ 324 = Cubic Yards - Round up to the next half or full yard
3. Reference table (no math)
| Material | 1 cubic yard covers |
|---|---|
| Mulch (3" refresh depth) | ~100 sq ft |
| Topsoil (3" depth) | ~100 sq ft |
| Topsoil (4" depth, new lawn) | ~80 sq ft |
| Crushed stone (4" driveway depth) | ~80 sq ft |
| Crushed stone (2" top coat refresh) | ~162 sq ft |
| Decorative river rock (3" depth) | ~100 sq ft |
| Compost (1" lawn topdress) | ~324 sq ft |
| Paver bedding sand (1" depth) | ~324 sq ft |
Common projects, ready-to-order quantities
- 500 sq ft mulch refresh: 5 cubic yards
- 1,000 sq ft new lawn (4" topsoil): 13 cubic yards
- 16'×40' driveway top coat (4"): 8 cubic yards
- 4'×8' raised bed (12" fill): 1.2 cubic yards
- 50' french drain (12" wide × 18" deep): 3 cubic yards
Still not sure?
Send your project type, dimensions, and depth to sales@ottrsupply.com or text (617) 645-0987 and we'll calculate it for you. We do this for free and we don't pressure you to order — better to size right than over-order.
Browse the product catalog to use the per-product calculator.
