How this calculator works
Volume is length × width × depth. Because depth is usually measured in inches, it is divided by 12 first. One cubic yard is 3 ft × 3 ft × 3 ft = 27 cubic feet.
Cubic feet = Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Depth (in) ÷ 12
Cubic yards = Cubic feet ÷ 27
Cubic meters = Cubic feet × 0.0283168
Worked example
Using the default values in the calculator above:
| Input | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 12 ft |
| Width | 10 ft |
| Depth | 3 in |
| Number of areas | 1 |
| Result | Value |
|---|---|
| Volume | 1.11 cubic yards |
| Volume | 30 cubic feet |
| Volume | 0.85 cubic meters |
| Area | 120 sq ft |
Step by step:
- Cubic feet = 12 × 10 × (3 ÷ 12) × 1 = 30
- Cubic yards = 30 ÷ 27 = 1.111
Square feet covered by one cubic yard
How far one cubic yard spreads at common depths.
| Depth | Coverage of 1 yd³ |
|---|---|
| 1 in | 324 sq ft |
| 2 in | 162 sq ft |
| 3 in | 108 sq ft |
| 4 in | 81 sq ft |
| 6 in | 54 sq ft |
| 12 in | 27 sq ft |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Dividing by 9 instead of 27 — 9 converts square feet to square yards, not cubic.
Frequently asked questions
How many square feet does a cubic yard cover?
At 3 in deep, one cubic yard covers 108 sq ft; at 2 in it covers 162 sq ft; at 4 in, 81 sq ft.
How do I convert cubic feet to cubic yards?
Divide by 27.