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Mulch Weight Calculator

Calculate mulch weight by volume and type instantly. Get results in pounds and tons for wood chip, bark, rubber, and straw mulch for accurate delivery planning.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about mulch weight.

A cubic yard of wood chip mulch weighs about 540 pounds (0.27 tons). Bark mulch is heavier at ~675 pounds per cubic yard, while rubber mulch can weigh up to 1,750 pounds per cubic yard.

Knowing mulch weight helps you plan delivery logistics, ensure your vehicle can handle the load, and determine if you need professional hauling. It's also critical for calculating structural loads on rooftop gardens or elevated planters.

Yes, significantly. Wet mulch can weigh 30-50% more than dry mulch depending on moisture content. Always account for moisture when calculating weights for delivery or structural planning.

Divide cubic feet by 27 to get cubic yards (since 1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet). For example, 81 cubic feet equals 3 cubic yards of mulch.

Rubber mulch is the heaviest at about 65 lb/ft³, followed by bark mulch at 25 lb/ft³. Wood chip mulch is moderate at 20 lb/ft³, while straw mulch is lightest at around 10 lb/ft³.

How to Calculate

To calculate mulch weight, multiply the volume (in cubic feet) by the density of your mulch type. The formula is **Weight = Volume × Density**. Wood chip mulch has a density of ~20 lb/ft³, bark mulch ~25 lb/ft³, rubber mulch ~65 lb/ft³, and straw ~10 lb/ft³. If you know the area and depth instead, first calculate volume: **Volume = Area × Depth**. Remember that moisture content can increase weight by 30-50%, so account for wet conditions when planning deliveries.

Formula & Method

Weight (lb) = Volume (ft³) × Density (lb/ft³)

Volume (ft³) = Area (ft²) × Depth (ft)

Weight (tons) = Weight (lb) ÷ 2000

Sources & References

https://www.fs.usda.gov/
https://www.epa.gov/

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