Excavation Volume Calculator
Please fill out all fields with valid positive numbers.
Results:
Volume: m³
Volume: ft³ / yd³
| Soil Type | Dry Density (kg/m³) | Dry Weight (tonnes) | Wet Density (kg/m³) | Wet Weight (tonnes) |
|---|
Excavation Volume Calculator
Planning a landscaping or construction project? This excavation volume calculator helps you quickly work out the amount of soil to remove based on length, width, and depth. Perfect for DIYers, contractors, builders, and landscapers tackling patio prep, foundations, trenches, or garden levelling.
Technical Guidance
- UK: Depths vary by use — 150mm (patio), 250mm (footing), 300mm+ (driveway base)
- USA: Use inches/feet — 6-12" common for landscaping, 18"+ for driveways and retaining walls
- 1 cubic meter = 1.3 tonnes of compacted soil (average)
- 1 cubic yard = ~2,000–2,500 lbs depending on soil type
Volume Conversion Table
| Material | Density (kg/m³) | Weight per m³ (tonnes) |
|---|---|---|
| Topsoil (wet) | 1700 | 1.70 |
| Clay (moist) | 1900 | 1.90 |
| Sand (dry) | 1600 | 1.60 |
Pro Tips
- Add 10–15% waste margin for over-dig, edge slumps, and loose soil
- Always compact subgrade before backfilling
- Mark utilities before excavation (especially in USA)
Common Mistakes
- Not converting inches/feet to meters (or vice versa)
- Forgetting to convert depth into the same units as length and width
- Underestimating soil expansion when dumped loose (up to 30% more volume)
FAQs
- How much soil do I remove for a 5m x 4m patio at 150mm depth? → 3.0m³ (approx. 3.9 tonnes)
- Can I calculate in feet/inches? → Yes! The calculator converts all units
- What’s the best soil type for backfilling? → Granular material with good drainage (e.g. crushed stone, Type 1)
