A cubic yard (CY) is the standard unit of measurement for bulk landscaping materials. Twenty cubic yards is a substantial quantity, far exceeding the needs of a typical small garden project. This volume is generally reserved for large-scale residential properties, commercial landscaping, or municipal projects. Purchasing mulch in this quantity requires specialized delivery and significant planning.
Visualizing 20 Cubic Yards
Understanding the size of 20 cubic yards is essential for managing a purchase of this magnitude. Since a single cubic yard contains 27 cubic feet, 20 cubic yards totals 540 cubic feet. This volume is often delivered in one trip by a large single-axle dump truck or a smaller tandem-axle truck.
When dumped, this amount of mulch forms a large, conical pile on a flat surface. A rough approximation of the pile’s dimensions is a mound about 10 feet wide, 10 feet long, and over 5 feet high at its peak. The actual weight of this pile can vary dramatically based on the material and its moisture content. Twenty cubic yards can weigh between 4 and 7 tons when dry, and potentially over 8 tons if the material is saturated with water.
Determining Coverage Area
The total square footage covered by 20 cubic yards depends entirely on the depth of the application. The base measurement is that one cubic yard covers approximately 324 square feet at a depth of one inch. Using this standard, the total coverage area for 20 cubic yards can be calculated for different application thicknesses.
For a thin, aesthetic top-dressing of one inch, 20 cubic yards will cover approximately 6,480 square feet. Applying a two-inch layer, often recommended for retaining soil moisture and providing a tidy appearance, reduces the coverage to 3,240 square feet. This coverage is sufficient for a large sports court or the majority of a substantial backyard.
A three-inch depth is the most common application for garden beds, which is effective for suppressing weed growth by blocking sunlight. At this depth, 20 cubic yards covers about 2,160 square feet. For maximum weed control or on sloped areas, a four-inch depth is sometimes preferred, resulting in coverage of 1,620 square feet. To determine a specific need, multiply the area in square feet by the desired depth in inches, then divide that result by 324 to find the total cubic yards required.
Delivery and Site Preparation Logistics
Receiving a 20-cubic-yard delivery requires careful logistical planning, as the material cannot be easily moved once dumped. The delivery vehicle needs ample vertical clearance, especially when raising the bed to unload. The access path must be wide enough to accommodate the truck, and the drop location must be a firm, level surface that can support the vehicle’s weight.
Site Preparation
Avoid having the material dumped directly onto soft lawn areas, as the weight of the truck and the mulch pile can damage turf or compact the soil. Placing the pile near drainage areas or too close to a property line can also create complications. Laying down large tarps or sheets of heavy plywood is an effective way to contain the material, protect the driveway surface, and simplify cleanup.
Moving 20 cubic yards of material is a labor-intensive task. This often necessitates the use of mechanical equipment like a compact skid steer or a large team utilizing multiple wheelbarrows.
Understanding Total Cost
The total expenditure for 20 cubic yards of mulch is influenced by three main variables: the material cost, delivery fees, and any preparation or spreading labor. Material prices fluctuate widely based on the type chosen, with basic shredded hardwood or wood chips typically costing less than premium options like cedar or dyed mulches. Bulk purchasing at this volume often unlocks a wholesale discount, making the price per cubic yard significantly lower than buying the equivalent in bags.
Delivery fees for a 20-yard load are frequently factored into the bulk price or charged as a flat rate based on the distance from the supplier. Suppliers often have a minimum order size for large truck deliveries, which 20 cubic yards usually meets. Customers should inquire about potential hidden costs, such as sales tax or surcharges for specialized delivery requirements.