How to convert square feet to cubic yards
Area alone is two-dimensional; materials are sold by volume. Add a depth: cubic yards = area (sq ft) × (depth in inches ÷ 12) ÷ 27. For 500 sq ft at 4 inches deep: 500 × 0.333 = 166.7 cubic feet, ÷ 27 = about 6.17 cubic yards. If you still need the area itself, measure it with the square footage calculator.
How to use this calculator
Enter the area in square feet and the depth in inches. The result is cubic yards and cubic feet. This is the conversion behind ordering gravel, mulch, topsoil, sand and concrete by the yard. For a slab or footing pour, the concrete calculator applies the right depths for you.
From cubic yards to a delivery
Suppliers deliver many materials by the cubic yard, and trucks carry a set number of yards. Add about 5–10% for settling and waste. For gravel specifically, the gravel calculator also estimates tonnage.
Depth is where most conversions go wrong. Use the compacted depth you want on the ground rather than the loose depth of the delivered pile, since many aggregates lose 15 to 20% of their volume once rolled or tamped. If a job has more than one depth, such as a path that thickens at a driveway apron, split it into zones and convert each one separately.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I convert square feet to cubic yards?
- Multiply the area in square feet by the depth in feet, then divide by 27. For depth in inches, divide inches by 12 first.
- How many cubic yards is 500 sq ft at 4 inches?
- About 6.17 cubic yards (166.7 cubic feet ÷ 27).
- Why divide by 27?
- There are 27 cubic feet in one cubic yard (3 × 3 × 3 feet).
- How much extra should I order?
- Add about 5–10% for settling, compaction and spillage.
- Can I convert square feet to cubic yards without a depth?
- No. Square feet measure area and cubic yards measure volume, so the two are only related once you add a depth. Any converter that skips the depth is assuming one for you.