Square Feet to Cubic Yards Calculator
Convert square feet to cubic yards for construction materials.
Converting square feet to cubic yards involves three main steps:
- Convert depth to feet:Depth (ft) = Depth (inches) ÷ 12
- Calculate cubic feet:Cubic Feet = Area (sq ft) × Depth (ft)
- Convert to cubic yards:Cubic Yards = Cubic Feet ÷ 27
(27 comes from 3 × 3 × 3, as 1 yard = 3 feet)
Landscaping
- Mulch coverage calculation
- Topsoil requirements
- Gravel for pathways
- Garden bed preparation
Construction
- Concrete volume estimation
- Fill material calculation
- Foundation excavation
- Aggregate ordering
Other Applications
- Swimming pool volume calculation
- Pond construction
- Drainage system planning
- Sports field construction
Key Conversions
- 1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet
- 1 foot = 12 inches
- 1 square yard = 9 square feet
- 1 cubic yard = 0.765 cubic meters
Quick Reference:
For a quick estimate, divide the total cubic feet by 27 to get cubic yards. For more precise calculations, use the calculator above.
- Add 10-15% extra material for:
- Compaction
- Irregular surfaces
- Spillage during installation
- Settling over time
- Measure depth at multiple points for uneven surfaces and use the average
- Consider material density when ordering (some materials compact more than others)
- Always verify delivery truck capacity when ordering materials
Why do I need to add extra material?
Materials like soil and gravel will compact over time, reducing the final volume. Adding extra material ensures you have enough to achieve the desired final depth.
How do I measure irregular areas?
Break down irregular areas into simple geometric shapes (rectangles, triangles), calculate each separately, and sum the results. For very irregular shapes, consider using the average of several measurements.
What about material delivery?
Most suppliers sell materials by the cubic yard, but delivery trucks have specific capacity limits. Always confirm the minimum order size and maximum delivery capacity with your supplier.