How to Use the Cubic Yard Calculator
Follow this step-by-step guide to accurately calculate cubic yards for your construction, landscaping, or gardening project.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Measure the Length
Use a measuring tape to determine the length of your area. You can measure in feet, inches, meters, or centimeters - our calculator handles all units automatically.
Measure the Width
Measure the width of your area using the same unit as the length. This ensures consistency in your calculations.
Measure the Depth
Determine how deep or thick you need the material. Common depths:
- Concrete slabs: 4-6 inches
- Driveways: 4-8 inches
- Garden beds: 2-4 inches
- Mulch: 2-3 inches
Enter Values in Calculator
Input your measurements into our calculator, select the appropriate units, and click "Calculate" to get your cubic yard result instantly.
Calculation Examples
Example 1: Concrete Patio
Project: 12 ft × 10 ft patio, 4 inches thick
Calculation:
- Length: 12 feet
- Width: 10 feet
- Depth: 4 inches (0.33 feet)
- Volume: 12 × 10 × 0.33 = 39.6 cubic feet
- Cubic yards: 39.6 ÷ 27 = 1.47 cubic yards
Example 2: Garden Bed Mulch
Project: 20 ft × 5 ft garden bed, 3 inches of mulch
Calculation:
- Length: 20 feet
- Width: 5 feet
- Depth: 3 inches (0.25 feet)
- Volume: 20 × 5 × 0.25 = 25 cubic feet
- Cubic yards: 25 ÷ 27 = 0.93 cubic yards
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my area isn't rectangular?
Break irregular shapes into smaller rectangles, calculate each section separately, then add the results together.
How do I calculate for a circular area?
Use the formula: π × radius² × depth. Or use diameter as length and width in our calculator, then multiply result by 0.785.
Can I mix different units?
Yes! Our calculator automatically converts different units. You can enter length in feet, width in meters, and depth in inches.
How accurate is the calculator?
Our calculator is mathematically precise. Accuracy depends on the precision of your measurements.
Ready to Calculate?
Use our free cubic yard calculator to get instant, accurate results for your project.
Start Calculating