📐 Square Feet to Cubic Yards Calculator
Convert area and depth to volume in cubic yards
Enter depth in inches (e.g., 4 for 4 inches)
How to Use This Calculator
Enter Area
Input the area in square feet. This is the surface area that needs material coverage.
Enter Depth
Input the depth in inches. For example, enter "4" for 4 inches of concrete or material depth.
Calculate Volume
Click "Calculate Cubic Yards" to see volume in cubic yards, cubic feet, and cubic meters. Use this for material ordering.
Order Materials
Use the cubic yards value to order materials like concrete, gravel, soil, or other bulk materials from suppliers.
Formula
Volume (cu ft) = Area (sq ft) × Depth (ft)
Depth (ft) = Depth (inches) / 12
Volume (cu yd) = Volume (cu ft) / 27
Volume (cu m) = Volume (cu ft) × 0.0283168
Example 1: 1,000 sq ft area, 4 inches depth
Step 1: Depth in feet = 4 / 12 = 0.333 feet
Step 2: Volume (cu ft) = 1,000 × 0.333 = 333 cu ft
Step 3: Volume (cu yd) = 333 / 27 = 12.33 cu yd
Step 4: Volume (cu m) = 333 × 0.0283168 = 9.43 m³
Example 2: 500 sq ft area, 6 inches depth
Step 1: Depth in feet = 6 / 12 = 0.5 feet
Step 2: Volume (cu ft) = 500 × 0.5 = 250 cu ft
Step 3: Volume (cu yd) = 250 / 27 = 9.26 cu yd
Step 4: Volume (cu m) = 250 × 0.0283168 = 7.08 m³
About Square Feet to Cubic Yards Calculator
The Square Feet to Cubic Yards Calculator is an essential tool for contractors, builders, and DIY enthusiasts who need to convert area and depth to volume in cubic yards. This calculator eliminates guesswork by providing volume calculations based on area in square feet and depth in inches, helping you order the correct amount of materials like concrete, gravel, soil, or other bulk materials.
When to Use This Calculator
- Concrete Ordering: Calculate cubic yards of concrete needed for slabs, driveways, or foundations
- Material Planning: Calculate cubic yards of gravel, soil, sand, or mulch needed
- Volume Conversion: Convert area and depth to volume for material ordering
- Cost Estimation: Estimate material costs based on cubic yards needed
- Supplier Communication: Order materials in cubic yards from suppliers
Why Use Our Calculator?
- ✅ Accurate Conversion: Converts square feet and depth to cubic yards accurately
- ✅ Complete Units: Shows volume in cubic yards, cubic feet, and cubic meters
- ✅ Easy to Use: Simple inputs for area and depth
- ✅ Depth Flexibility: Accepts depth in inches for convenience
- ✅ Time Savings: Instant calculations eliminate manual math
Understanding Volume Calculations
Area to Volume: To convert area to volume, multiply area by depth. Volume = Area × Depth. The calculator converts depth from inches to feet automatically, then calculates volume in cubic feet, cubic yards, and cubic meters.
Cubic Yards: A cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet. Most bulk materials (concrete, gravel, soil) are sold by the cubic yard. One cubic yard covers approximately 324 square feet at 1 inch depth, or 81 square feet at 4 inches depth.
Common Applications: Use this calculator for concrete slabs (4-6 inches), gravel driveways (4-6 inches), soil fill (6-12 inches), mulch beds (2-4 inches), and other bulk material applications. Always add 10% extra for waste and compaction.
Tips for Best Results
- Measure Accurately: Measure area accurately for precise volume calculations
- Account for Depth: Consider material compaction and settling when calculating depth
- Add Waste Factor: Add 10% extra volume for waste, spills, and compaction
- Convert Units: Depth is entered in inches for convenience—converted to feet automatically
- Verify with Suppliers: Confirm cubic yard amounts with suppliers before ordering
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert square feet to cubic yards?
To convert square feet to cubic yards, multiply area (sq ft) by depth (in feet), then divide by 27. For example, 1,000 sq ft at 4 inches depth: Depth = 4/12 = 0.333 ft, Volume = 1,000 × 0.333 = 333 cu ft, Cubic yards = 333/27 = 12.33 cu yd. The calculator does this automatically.
How many cubic yards do I need for a concrete slab?
For a concrete slab, calculate area in square feet and depth in inches. For example, a 20×20 ft slab (400 sq ft) at 4 inches depth: Volume = 400 × (4/12) = 133.33 cu ft = 4.94 cu yd. Add 10% waste = 5.43 cu yd. Order about 5.5-6 cu yd of concrete.
How much does one cubic yard cover?
One cubic yard covers different areas depending on depth. At 1 inch depth, 1 cu yd covers 324 sq ft. At 4 inches depth, 1 cu yd covers 81 sq ft. At 6 inches depth, 1 cu yd covers 54 sq ft. Coverage = 324 / Depth (inches).
What depth should I use for my project?
Depth depends on material and application: Concrete slabs = 4-6 inches, Gravel driveways = 4-6 inches, Soil fill = 6-12 inches, Mulch = 2-4 inches, Sand base = 2-4 inches. Check local building codes and material specifications for recommended depths.
Should I add extra for waste?
Yes, always add 10-15% extra volume for waste, spills, compaction, and settling. If you calculate 10 cu yd needed, order 11-11.5 cu yd to ensure you have enough material. The calculator shows exact amounts—add 10% when ordering from suppliers.