How Much Topsoil and Turf Do I Need?

A healthy lawn is one of the most valuable parts of any outdoor space. Whether it is for children playing, summer barbecues with family and friends, or simply creating a relaxing green area to enjoy, a well-maintained lawn can completely transform a garden.

Creating a new lawn is not just about laying fresh turf. The preparation underneath is just as important. Good quality topsoil gives grass the nutrients, drainage, and structure it needs to establish properly and stay healthy for years to come.

At Berkshire Turf, we supply quality turf and topsoil for homeowners, landscapers, and garden projects across Berkshire, Surrey, London, and Oxfordshire.

One of the most common questions homeowners ask before starting a garden project is:

• “How much topsoil do I need?”
• “How much turf do I need?”

In this guide, we will explain exactly how to calculate both using a standard UK lawn size example of 15m x 15m, while also showing you how to prepare your garden properly before laying new turf.

Why Lawn Preparation Matters

Before laying turf, it is important to create the right foundation. Even the highest quality turf will struggle if the soil beneath it is compacted, uneven, or lacking nutrients.

Preparing your garden properly helps:

• Improve drainage
• Encourage strong root growth
• Reduce weeds and patchy areas
• Create a smoother, more attractive lawn
• Improve long-term lawn health

At Berkshire Turf, we always recommend preparing the ground thoroughly before laying new turf. You can also find additional preparation advice and answers to common questions on our FAQ page.

How to Prepare Your Garden for New Turf

Before calculating how much topsoil and turf you need, make sure the area is fully prepared.

Step 1: Clear the Area

Remove:

• Existing grass
• Weeds
• Stones and debris
• Old roots

A clean surface makes it easier for the new lawn to establish evenly.

Step 2: Rotivate and Level the Ground

Rotivate the area fully and then rake the area flat and fill any dips or uneven sections. A smooth surface helps prevent water pooling and creates a professional-looking lawn.

Step 3: Add Fresh Topsoil

Fresh topsoil improves soil quality and creates the ideal growing environment for new turf.

Berkshire Turf supplies high-quality loose topsoil suitable for lawn preparation, landscaping projects, and new lawns across London, Surrey, Berkshire, and Oxfordshire.

Step 4: Firm and Rake the Soil

Lightly compact the surface by walking over it or using a roller. Then rake again to create a fine, level finish ready for turf.

How Much Topsoil Do I Need?

If you have rotavated your soil and it breaks up freely and is dark and loamy in texture you may only need to add a final layer of 10mm fresh soil. However if your soil is of poor quality you should look to invest in adding new topsoil to your garden.

The amount of topsoil you need depends on the size of your lawn and the depth of soil you want to add.

For most new lawns, a depth of 75mm to 100mm of fresh topsoil is recommended.

For this example, we will use a standard UK lawn size of:

• 15m x 15m
• Total area = 225 square metres

Topsoil Calculation Example

If you want to add 100mm (0.1m) of topsoil:

225m² × 0.1m = 22.5m³ of topsoil

So, for a standard 15m x 15m lawn, you would need approximately:

• 5 cubic metres of topsoil

If you are adding a shallower layer of 75mm:

225m² × 0.075m = 16.875m³ of topsoil

So you would need approximately:

• 17 cubic metres of topsoil

If you are unsure how much topsoil you need for your own garden size, you can use the Berkshire Turf calculator.

Many customers searching for topsoil delivery in Berkshire, Surrey, Oxford, and London use our calculator to estimate quantities quickly before ordering.

How Much Turf Do I Need?

Calculating turf is usually much simpler because turf is measured in square metres.

Using the same example lawn size:

15m × 15m = 225m²

So you would need:

• 225 square metres of turf

However, it is always recommended to order slightly extra to allow for:

• Cutting around edges
• Shaping borders
• Minor measuring differences
• Waste during installation

Most landscapers recommend adding around 5% extra.

Turf Calculation with Extra Allowance

225m² × 1.05 = 236.25m²

So realistically, you should order approximately:

• 236m² of turf

This helps ensure you have enough material to complete the project without running short.

If you would like an instant calculation for your garden, use the Berkshire Turf turf calculator.

We supply fresh lawn turf for domestic and commercial landscaping projects throughout Berkshire, Surrey, Oxfordshire, and London.

Choosing the Right Topsoil and Turf

A successful lawn project depends on both the turf itself and the quality of the soil underneath.

Using nutrient-rich screened topsoil creates:

• Better drainage
• Improved root development
• Stronger grass growth
• A smoother lawn surface

Pairing quality turf with properly prepared topsoil gives your lawn the best possible start.

Whether you are renovating a family garden in Surrey, laying a new lawn in London, improving a property in Oxfordshire, or landscaping a garden in Berkshire, choosing high-quality turf and topsoil makes a significant difference to the finished result.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Ordering Enough Turf

Many homeowners only order the exact measured size and forget about cutting waste. Always allow a little extra.

Skipping Fresh Topsoil

Laying turf directly onto poor or compacted soil often leads to patchy growth and drainage problems.

Uneven Ground Preparation

Any bumps or dips underneath the turf will remain visible after installation.

Laying Turf Too Slowly

Fresh turf should ideally be laid on the day it arrives to maintain quality and moisture.

We are here to help

If you are planning a new lawn project, understanding how much topsoil you need and how much turf you need is one of the most important first steps.

For a standard UK lawn size of 15m x 15m:

• You will need approximately 17–22.5m³ of topsoil, depending on depth
• You will need approximately 236m² of turf, including installation allowance

Preparing your lawn properly with quality topsoil and accurately calculating your turf requirements will help create a healthy, attractive outdoor space that your family and friends can enjoy for years to come.

Berkshire Turf supplies premium turf and topsoil across Berkshire, Surrey, Oxfordshire, and London, helping homeowners and landscapers create healthy, long-lasting lawns.

If you are still unsure about measurements, Berkshire Turf provides easy-to-use online calculators to help you work everything out quickly:

• Topsoil Calculator
• Turf Calculator