Disclaimer
Good estimates — but estimates. Read this before you spend money.
Last updated: October 24, 2026
All calculations, charts and reference values on Calcyard are provided for general information and planning only. They are not engineering, construction, horticultural or safety advice, and they are not a substitute for local codes, supplier specifications or a qualified professional.
Why results vary from reality
- Material densities differ. Mulch, soil, sand and stone weight per cubic yard varies with moisture, grind, rock type and how the supplier loads it. Each page names the density used and its typical range.
- Bag yields differ by brand. Bag volumes printed on packaging govern — check yours.
- Ground isn't flat. Slopes, crowns and uneven excavation change real volumes versus measured boxes.
- Compaction happens. Crushed stone, fill dirt and fresh mulch all settle; the 10% buffer in our calculators is a minimum for structural bases.
Safety-critical work
For concrete under structures, footings, retaining walls, playground surfacing and anything with a code requirement, follow your local building department's specifications and product manufacturer instructions (for playground surfacing, CPSC publication #325 and ASTM F1292/F2075). Where our numbers and a regulation disagree, the regulation wins.
Order responsibly
Suppliers typically round tonnage and many have minimum loads and restocking limits. Treat Calcyard results as a well-informed starting point and confirm final quantities with your supplier. Use of the Site is at your own risk; see our terms of use for the full limitation of liability.