Loam Calculator
Calculate cubic yards of loam (topsoil) needed for your project. Enter the area dimensions and target depth — get yardage, bag count, and cost estimate.
FAQs
What is loam?
Loam is a soil mixture of roughly 40% sand, 40% silt, and 20% clay — considered the ideal soil for most plants. It drains well, retains moisture, and is rich in nutrients. 'Loam' is often used interchangeably with 'topsoil' in landscaping contexts, though true loam is a specific composition.
How much loam do I need?
Calculate volume: length × width × depth, then convert to cubic yards (1 cu yd = 27 cu ft). For a 200 sq ft area at 3 inches depth: 200 × 0.25 = 50 cu ft = 1.85 cu yd. Round up to 2 cu yd. Add 5-10% extra for settling and compaction.
How much does loam cost?
Bulk loam from a landscape supplier: $25-$70 per cubic yard (varies by region and quality). Premium screened loam: $50-$100/yd. Delivery typically $50-$150 per trip within local range. Bagged topsoil from home stores: $3-$5 per 0.75 cu ft bag (much more expensive per yard but convenient for small jobs).
How many cubic yards in a bag of topsoil?
Standard topsoil bags are 0.75 cubic feet. 1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet = 36 bags. For a typical lawn project needing 2 cubic yards, you'd need ~72 bags or buy bulk delivery. Bulk is usually cheaper per yard once you need more than 1 cubic yard.
What depth of loam do I need for grass seed?
For new lawn installation: 4-6 inches of loam on top of existing soil. For overseeding/touch-ups: 1-2 inches. For garden beds: 6-12 inches depending on plants. For raised beds: fill entirely (12-18 inches typically).
How heavy is a cubic yard of loam?
1 cubic yard of loam weighs approximately 1,800-2,200 lbs (about 1 ton), depending on moisture content. Dry loam is lighter; saturated/wet loam can exceed 2,500 lbs per cubic yard. A standard pickup truck can typically carry 1-2 yards safely; larger trucks or trailers needed for more.
Should I get screened or unscreened loam?
Screened loam has been sifted to remove rocks, sticks, and large debris. Cost ~$15-$25 more per yard but easier to work with for lawns and gardens. Unscreened is fine for filling holes or grading areas where stones won't matter. For seeding or planting, get screened.