1. What is Mulch Yardage?

Mulch yardage refers to the volume of mulch needed to cover a specific area to a certain depth, measured in cubic yards. It's essential for landscaping projects to determine how much mulch to purchase.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the mulch yardage formula:

Where:

• \( Area \) — Area to be covered in square feet
• \( Depth \) — Desired mulch depth in inches
• 12 — Converts inches to feet
• 27 — Converts cubic feet to cubic yards

Explanation: The formula first converts depth from inches to feet, calculates cubic feet, then converts to cubic yards (since mulch is typically sold by the cubic yard).

3. Importance of Accurate Calculation

Details: Proper mulch calculation ensures you purchase the right amount - too little won't provide adequate coverage while too much is wasteful and can harm plants.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure your area in square feet (length × width), decide on desired depth (typically 2-4 inches), and enter these values. The calculator will determine cubic yards needed.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the typical depth for mulch?
A: For most applications, 2-4 inches is recommended. Use 2 inches for fine mulch and 3-4 inches for coarse mulch.

Q2: How do I measure irregular areas?
A: Break the area into simple shapes (rectangles, circles), calculate each separately, then sum the areas.

Q3: Does mulch settle over time?
A: Yes, mulch compacts about 20-30% over time. You may want to add 10-15% to your calculation to account for this.

Q4: How many bags equal a cubic yard?
A: Typically 13.5 bags of 2 cubic feet each make 1 cubic yard (since 27 cubic feet = 1 cubic yard).

Q5: Should I remove old mulch first?
A: It's recommended to remove old mulch if it's more than 3 inches deep after settling to prevent problems.