Mulch is a material spread over the soil surface to maintain moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weed growth. For landscape projects, mulch is commonly bought in bulk, and the cubic yard is the standard unit of measurement. A cubic yard represents a volume equivalent to a cube measuring three feet long, three feet wide, and three feet high. Understanding what five cubic yards means in terms of physical coverage and cost is necessary for proper project planning. This volume is a substantial quantity.
Calculating Coverage: What 5 Cubic Yards Means
The volume of five cubic yards translates directly into a specific surface area coverage based on the desired application depth. The basic calculation involves multiplying the length, width, and depth of the area, then dividing by 27 to convert cubic feet into cubic yards. Most landscape professionals recommend a layer between two and four inches deep, depending on the purpose.
A single cubic yard of mulch, spread at a standard depth of three inches, covers approximately 108 square feet. Therefore, five cubic yards will cover about 540 square feet at that depth. For refreshing existing beds, a shallower two-inch layer increases coverage to roughly 810 square feet. Conversely, for maximum weed suppression or on steep slopes, a four-inch application will cover approximately 405 square feet.
Average Cost Estimate for 5 Cubic Yards
For standard, non-premium bulk materials like shredded hardwood or basic pine mulch, the national average cost per cubic yard typically falls between $25 and $100. Calculating the raw material price for five cubic yards simply results in a total material cost range of approximately $125 to $500 for a common wood mulch variety.
This price represents only the material itself, excluding delivery fees or specialized processing costs. The lower end of the range usually reflects basic local wood chip options, while the higher end encompasses better-quality organic bark mulches. Prices can fluctuate significantly based on the specific region and the current season, often peaking in the spring.
Factors Influencing the Final Price
The type of mulch chosen is a primary determinant of the final price, causing variability in the initial estimate. Basic shredded wood and common bark mulches are the most economical choice. Premium materials, such as cedar or cypress, cost more due to their natural pest-repelling properties and slower decomposition rates. Color-enhanced mulches, which use non-toxic dyes to achieve rich black or red tones, also command a higher price point because of the extra processing involved.
The manner of purchase also impacts the cost per unit of volume. Buying five cubic yards in bulk is more cost-effective than purchasing the equivalent amount in bags. Since one cubic yard equals about 13.5 to 14 standard two-cubic-foot bags, five yards is roughly 67 to 70 bags of mulch. Delivery fees are another variable, typically ranging from $20 to over $100, depending on the distance from the supplier and local fuel costs.
Delivery and Handling Considerations
Five cubic yards requires careful logistical planning for delivery and placement. This quantity is equivalent to a pile around five feet wide, five feet high, and seven feet long. Weight is a factor, as a single cubic yard of wood mulch can weigh between 400 and 1,200 pounds, depending on its moisture content.
A five-yard load of wet mulch could weigh as much as 6,000 pounds, requiring a heavy-duty dump truck for transport. Homeowners must ensure they have a suitable, accessible dumping location, such as a sturdy driveway or a clear area free of low-hanging wires. Once delivered, this volume requires significant physical labor for wheelbarrow transport and spreading across the designated landscape areas.