How’s Your Soil?
Ever wondered how much it costs to restore and maintain your soil in Defiance, OH? Are you trying to determine the most cost-effective approach for your gardening or landscaping project?
In this blog post, we will dive into the world of soil costs and help you understand the various factors that influence them.
By the time you finish reading this post, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision on how to approach your soil needs.
Topsoil Costs In Defiance, OH
Topsoil Cost By Area Size
The cost of topsoil in Defiance, OH, is determined by the area size in cubic yards. Bulk topsoil delivery costs between $10 and $50 per cubic yard. This depends on soil amount, material quality, moisture content, and any delivery fees.
- A 10- to 15-yard dump truck load of topsoil costs $150 to $500 for delivery.
- If you need a smaller amount, a ½-yard scoop of topsoil runs $10 to $30 for self-pickup.
- For smaller projects, bagged topsoil costs $2 to $6 per bag or $35 to $120 per cubic yard.
*Note that these estimates are rough and may not include additional costs such as delivery fees or labor costs for professional installation.
A factor that affects the cost of topsoil is the type of soil needed. For example, screened topsoil is more expensive than unscreened topsoil.
Screened topsoil is ideal for planting and growing, while unscreened topsoil is perfect for filling holes or leveling uneven surfaces.
The Cost For Dirt
| Material Type | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Septic Fill Dirt | $8 – $16 per cubic yard | Screened or unscreened fill dirt for septic installations and repairs |
| Engineered & Structural Fill Dirt | $20 – $50 per cubic yard | Used for construction projects such as building foundations and roadways |
| Black Dirt (Topsoil) | $10 – $50 per cubic yard | Rich organic soil used for gardening or landscaping projects |
| Clay Dirt | $15 – $40 per cubic yard | Dense, heavy soil used for construction projects like building foundations, roadways |
| Mulch | $15 – $65 per cubic yard | Popular for landscaping and gardening projects |
| Sand | $15 – $40 per cubic yard | Used for filling damp areas or creating a level base |
| Rocks, Stones, Gravel, and Riprap | Sold by cubic foot or ton | Prices vary based on type of rock, location, and supplier |
Note: Prices may vary based on location, quantity needed, and additional costs such as delivery fees or labor costs for professional installation.
Topsoil Cost By Area Size
Fill dirt is a versatile material that can be used for a variety of purposes, including leveling holes, raising the ground level, filling in a pool, improving drainage, construction, or septic backfill.
The cost of filling dirt varies depending on the type, volume ordered, and distance away.
Septic Fill Dirt Cost
Septic fill dirt is used for septic system installations and repairs. It is typically a clean fill or unscreened fill dirt, which is the most popular type.
Screened-fill dirt may cost around $8 to $16 per cubic yard. However, the cost may vary depending on the location and amount of fill needed.
Engineered And Structural Fill Dirt Cost
Engineered and structural fill dirt is used for construction projects, such as building foundations and roadways. This type of fill dirt is typically more expensive than regular fill dirt.
The cost may range from $20 to $50 per cubic yard or more, depending on the location and amount of fill needed.
Notes On Ordering Fill Dirt
When ordering fill dirt, it is important to consider the type of fill needed, the volume required, and the location of the project. Some suppliers may offer discounts for larger orders or for customers who are located closer to their facility.
It is also important to ensure that the fill dirt is of good quality and free from contaminants, such as rocks, debris, and other materials that may affect the integrity of the project.
Black Dirt Cost
Black dirt, also known as topsoil, is a rich, organic soil that is typically used for gardening or landscaping projects.
The cost of black dirt may range from $10 to $50 per cubic yard, depending on the location and amount of fill needed.
Clay Dirt Cost
Clay dirt is a dense, heavy soil that is typically used for construction projects, such as building foundations and roadways.
The cost of clay dirt may range from $15 to $40 per cubic yard, depending on the location and amount of fill needed.
Mulch Cost
Mulch is a popular material used for landscaping and gardening projects. It helps retain moisture in the soil, suppresses weed growth, and adds nutrients to the soil as it decomposes. However, the cost of mulch can vary depending on the type of mulch, the quantity needed, and the location of the buyer.
The average cost of mulch is $15 to $65 per cubic yard. Economy mulch costs $15 to $30 per yard, while colored or hardwood mulch runs $30 to $40 per yard. The cost of mulch can also depend on the location of the buyer and the availability of the material in the area.
Sand Cost
Sand is a popular material for landscaping and construction projects. It is commonly used for filling in damp areas or creating a level base for pavers and other outdoor features. The cost of sand varies depending on the quantity and location of the purchase.
On average, the cost of sand is between $15 and $40 per cubic yard when delivered.
The price may vary depending on the distance from the supplier, the quality of the sand, and the amount purchased. For example, a truckload of sand may cost between $300 and $700, which typically includes the cost of delivery.
It is important to note that the cost of sand may increase if it needs to be screened or washed prior to delivery.
Screened sand is typically free of debris and small stones, making it ideal for certain projects. However, the additional processing may add to the overall cost.
When purchasing sand, it is important to consider the intended use and the quality of the product. Cheaper sand may contain impurities that can affect the performance of the material. It is recommended to purchase sand from a reputable supplier to ensure quality and reliability.
Rocks, Stones, Gravel, And Riprap
When it comes to landscaping or construction, rocks, stones, gravel, and riprap are often used to add visual appeal, create drainage systems, and prevent erosion.
These materials are typically sold by cubic foot or ton, depending on the supplier, location, and type of rock.
One cubic foot of rock or stone typically weighs between 100-200 pounds, depending on the type of rock. For example, one cubic foot of granite weighs around 170 pounds, while one cubic foot of limestone weighs around 150 pounds.
When purchasing rocks or stones for a project, it’s important to consider the total volume needed. For larger projects, it may be more cost-effective to purchase rocks or stones by ton. One ton of rock or stone typically covers around 100 square feet at a 2-inch depth. The cost of rocks or stones can vary greatly depending on the type of rock, location, and supplier.
Riprap, which is used to protect shorelines from erosion, can also be purchased by the cubic yard or ton. The cost of riprap varies depending on location and the type of material selected. A cost of $25 to $75 per cubic yard of ungrouted riprap can be used as a basic quote, while grouted riprap ranges from $45 to $60 per square yard.
In addition to rocks and stones, gravel is another material that is commonly used in landscaping and construction. Gravel is typically sold by the ton, with one ton covering around 80-100 square feet at a 2-inch depth. The cost of gravel can vary depending on the type of gravel, location, and supplier.
Factors Affecting Soil Costs
Soil Type
Different soil types have varying densities, particle sizes, and water retention capabilities, which can impact the amount of soil needed and the cost per cubic yard. For instance, sandy soil is less dense and requires more soil to fill a given area compared to clay soil.
Moreover, the water retention capacity of soil can affect how much water is needed for the project, which can also impact the cost.
Professional Vs. DIY Installation
Hiring a professional can significantly increase the cost of the project due to labor costs, permits, and licenses.
However, a professional installation can ensure that the soil is properly installed, compacted, and tested for percolation, which can save money in the long run by preventing future drainage problems.
On the other hand, a DIY installation can save money on labor costs, but the quality of the installation may be compromised, leading to future problems that can increase the cost of the project.
Delivery
Some suppliers may offer free delivery for bulk orders, while others may charge a fee based on the distance and quantity of soil needed.
Additionally, the cost of soil can vary depending on the location of the supplier, as transportation costs can be a significant factor in the overall cost of the project.
How To Lower The Cost Of Soil
Local Suppliers
Local suppliers tend to have a better understanding of the soil types and conditions in your area, which can be beneficial when selecting the right type of soil for your specific needs.
Additionally, sourcing soil locally can help to reduce transportation costs, as the distance the soil needs to be transported will likely be shorter.
Bulk Buying
Recycling Organic Materials
Instead of purchasing new soil, consider recycling organic materials from your own yard or garden. This can include composting kitchen scraps, leaves, grass clippings, and other organic materials.
By recycling these materials, you can create nutrient-rich soil amendments that can help improve the soil quality and reduce the need for additional soil purchases.
Planning Ahead
To reduce soil costs, plan your gardening or landscaping project well in advance. This will allow you to take advantage of sales, discounts, or special offers from suppliers.
Additionally, planning ahead can help you determine the exact amount of soil you’ll need, reducing the risk of overbuying and wasting money on unneeded soil.
Collaborate With Neighbors
The Dirt On Soil
Soil quality is essential for supporting plant life and promoting healthy plant roots and growth. The soil structure and the presence of soil microbes contribute to fertile soils that are rich in plant nutrients.
Soil formation occurs through natural processes that break down rocks and parent materials into smaller soil particles such as sand, silt, and clay particles.
The soil profile typically consists of different layers called soil horizons. The uppermost layer, known as the A soil horizon or topsoil, contains the most nutrients and organic material necessary for supporting plant life.
In order to maintain and improve soil quality, it is crucial to implement sustainable practices, such as adding organic compost to enrich the soil, rotating plants, and minimizing soil disturbance.
It’s also recommended to incorporate plants native to Ohio as they tend to work best with the soil.
Find Premium Topsoil And Service With Farrell’s Lawn & Garden Center
For those interested in a landscaping project or improving their garden bed, it’s essential to understand how much topsoil is needed and the associated costs. Now you have a better understanding of the cost of dirt!
You can find top-quality soil, service, and more at Farrell’s Lawn & Garden Center. Fill out our contact form today, or give us a call.