Landscape Materials Calculator
Calculate the exact amount of landscape materials you need. Choose your area shape and get instant results.
Rectangle Area Calculator
Triangle Area Calculator
Circle Area Calculator
More Professional Tools
Take your project to the next level with our full suite of estimator and ordering tools.
Material Estimator
Calculate quantities, pricing, and generate estimates for any landscaping project.
Order Builder
Build detailed orders with advanced options and real-time pricing for your materials.
Delivery Slip Generator
Generate printable delivery slips with order details, pricing, and delivery info.
How It Works Guide
Learn how to use our estimator tools, understand calculations, and get the most accurate results.
Ready to Order?
Contact us to get a quote for your materials with delivery estimates!
📞 Get a Free QuoteDecorative Rocks
Recommended depth: 3-6 inches for best coverage and weed prevention
Mulch & Bark
Recommended depth: 2-4 inches, refreshed annually for best results
Soil & Compost
Depth depends on the project; ask the yard how much blend to use for your site.
How to Measure Your Landscape Area
Accurate measurements are the foundation of a successful landscaping project. Before using our calculator, take a few minutes to measure your project area carefully. For rectangular beds, walkways, and driveways, simply measure the length and width in feet using a tape measure. For areas with complex or irregular shapes, break the space into smaller rectangles and triangles, calculate each section separately, then add the totals together.
When measuring slopes and hillsides, measure along the slope surface rather than the horizontal distance. Sloped areas require more material because the surface area is larger than it appears from above. For circular areas around trees, planters, or fire pits, measure the diameter (the distance across the widest point) and our circle calculator will handle the math.
Once you have your area measurements, choose your material depth based on the type of material you plan to use. Our calculator automatically converts your square footage and depth into cubic yards, which is the standard unit landscape material yards sell by. We also add a recommended 10% buffer for settling, compaction, and uneven ground.
Material Weight and Coverage Reference
Knowing the weight and coverage of different landscape materials helps you plan for delivery logistics and budget accurately. Coverage depends only on depth: one cubic yard of any material covers about 108 square feet at 3 inches deep and 162 square feet at 2 inches (324 ÷ depth in inches). Weight is what differs from one material to another. Use this reference table alongside our calculator to plan your project:
| Material | Weight per Cubic Yard | Recommended Depth | Coverage per CY at that depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decorative Rock | 2,400-2,800 lbs | 3-6 inches | 54-108 sq ft |
| Mulch / Bark | 400-800 lbs | 2-4 inches | 81-162 sq ft |
| Decomposed Granite | ~3,000 lbs | 2-4 inches | 81-162 sq ft |
| Topsoil | Not confirmed; ask the yard | Depends on the project | 81 sq ft at 4 in (example) |
| River Rock | 2,400-2,600 lbs | 3-6 inches | 54-108 sq ft |
| Sand / Gravel | 2,600-2,800 lbs | 2-4 inches | 81-162 sq ft |
All weights are approximate and may vary based on moisture content and the specific product. When in doubt about how much material your project requires, our team at (916) 783-9177 can help you fine-tune your estimate based on decades of experience with Sacramento-area landscaping projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cubic yards of rock do I need? ▼
Multiply your area's length x width (in feet) x depth (in inches), then divide by 324. For example, a 10x20 foot area at 3 inches deep needs approximately 1.85 cubic yards. Our free calculator above does this math instantly for rectangle, triangle, and circle shapes.
How deep should landscape rock be? ▼
Decorative rock should be 3-6 inches deep for proper coverage and weed prevention. Mulch and bark need 2-4 inches, refreshed annually. Topsoil and compost blend depths depend on the project; ask the yard about your site.
How much extra material should I order? ▼
We recommend ordering 5-10% extra to account for settling, compaction, and uneven terrain. Base materials like crushed granite may need up to 15% extra due to compaction. Our calculator adds a recommended 10% buffer automatically.
What is the weight of one cubic yard of landscape rock? ▼
Weight varies by material: decorative rock weighs 2,400-2,800 lbs per cubic yard, gravel is about 2,800 lbs, decomposed granite around 3,000 lbs, and mulch and bark is 400-800 lbs. Topsoil and compost weights are not confirmed for our products and vary with moisture, so ask the yard before hauling them.
Do you offer free delivery with my materials order? ▼
Yes! We offer FREE delivery on orders of 4 or more cubic yards within 14 miles of our Roseville yard. Same-day delivery is available for orders placed before 10 AM, subject to truck availability. We deliver 7 days a week throughout Placer County and Sacramento.