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Updated September 2026 · Free reference guideMaterial Coverage Tables
Coverage is controlled by depth. These tables help you sanity-check a calculator result before ordering.
Square feet covered by 1 cubic yard
| Depth | Coverage |
|---|---|
| 1 inch | 324 ft² |
| 2 inches | 162 ft² |
| 3 inches | 108 ft² |
| 4 inches | 81 ft² |
| 6 inches | 54 ft² |
| 8 inches | 40.5 ft² |
| 12 inches | 27 ft² |
These are mathematical volume relationships before settling, compaction or installation losses.
How coverage is calculated
Coverage (ft²) = 27 ÷ depth (ft)
At 3 inches, depth is 0.25 ft, so one cubic yard covers 27 ÷ 0.25 = 108 ft².
Bagged material
Bag coverage depends on the volume printed on the bag. A 2 ft³ bag at 3 inches deep covers about 8 ft² before settling and installation losses.