Yard Grading Calculator

Overview

Converts a target percent slope or total drop into a finished-grade drop and triangular-wedge fill volume.

Assumptions

• Fill is modeled as a wedge from zero to the target drop.
• The entered width is perpendicular to the run.

Worked example

A 25-ft run at 2% drops 25 × .02 × 12 = 6 in. Over 10 ft width, wedge fill is 25 × 10 × (0.5 ÷ 2) ÷ 27 = 2.31 cu yd.

Common mistakes

• Using full depth rather than average half-depth for wedge volume.
• Adding fill against siding without preserving required clearances.

Limitations

Existing grade, compaction, soil settlement, and drainage routes are not surveyed.

Safety and local requirements

Contact utilities before excavation; local grading and drainage requirements govern site changes.

Sources

• EPA — Soak Up the Rain