Here are some tips for measuring how much bulk material you need for a project.
When starting any new project that needs bulk materials, you must measure how much material you need. You don’t want to run out of material halfway through the project and need to order more, nor would you want to finish and realize you have wasted money on extra materials you now have no use for.
To calculate how much material you need, you first must determine the volume of the space you want to fill. Finding the area of the surface is relatively easy, as you can measure the length and width. However, calculating the depth of the space depends on your project and its goals. Keep reading for some elements to watch out for as you measure how much bulk material you need for a project.
Measure Your Mulch
Mulch is frequently the material of choice for those who want to suppress weeds, moisturize soil, control insects, or insulate soil. You can quickly improve your soil with a simple mulch depth of about 2 to 4 inches. This will keep weeds from popping up in your garden or yard while also trapping moisture to keep your plants thriving. Be sure to limit yourself to this thin layer because, though this will help with insect control, using more mulch can attract termites.
Topsoil
Generally, landscape projects using topsoil require about 2 to 8 inches of material. What you will need within this range depends on the project. If you are installing, regrading, or over-seeding your lawn, a layer of about 3 to 6 inches of topsoil is best, depending on the soil quality underneath. If you plan to replace the existing soil, you will need to replace around 3-6 inches for a new lawn and at least 6 inches of topsoil for a garden. This gives roots the space and food they need to grow fully.
Gravel and Stone
Gravel and stone are used for a wide variety of landscaping projects. Improving drainage and decorating flower beds only require a depth of about 2 to 3 inches of stone. Weed prevention requires a depth of 3 to 5 inches of gravel or stone. Building a structure like a driveway or pathway will require a depth of 4 to 6 inches of stone, depending on the expected wear and tear.
Whenever you undertake a project using gravel or stone, remember that larger rocks will require a larger depth than smaller rocks to ensure they do not slip out of place.
Tips for Measuring Bulk Landscape Materials
No matter the type of project, measuring your bulk materials right the first time is critical. This will provide the most efficient budget, project timeline, and logistical requirements. While calculating the 2-dimensional area of the intended space is a manageable first step, things get more complicated when translating this into a 3-dimensional measure of volume. This measurement depends on the final figure of the equation Volume = Length x Width x Depth, and the depth largely depends on the function and the type of project.
Questions? Lehnhoff’s Supply is Here to Help
If you still have more questions about bulk landscape materials, the trained professionals at Lehnhoff’s Supply are here to help you.
Find us at 2708 Belair Road, Fallston, MD 21047 and give us a call at 410-510-7646. For tips, tricks, and to see what we have been up to, be sure to follow us on Facebook, X – Twitter, and Pinterest!
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