Expert Advice

Professional guidance to help you choose the best materials and make your project a success

How Much Material Do I Need?

Mulch & Organic Materials

Coverage Guidelines:
  • 1 cubic yard covers: ~100 sq ft at 3" deep
  • Recommended depth: 2-3 inches
  • Annual refresh: Add 1" each year
Best Uses:
  • Flower beds and garden areas
  • Around trees and shrubs
  • Vegetable gardens
  • Moisture retention and weed control

Decorative Rock

Coverage Guidelines:
  • 1 cubic yard covers: ~80 sq ft at 3" deep
  • Recommended depth: 2-3 inches
  • Longevity: Permanent installation
Best Uses:
  • Low-maintenance landscaping
  • Drainage areas
  • Accent features and borders
  • Desert and xeriscaping

Base Rock & Limestone

Coverage Guidelines:
  • 1 cubic yard covers: ~60 sq ft at 4" deep
  • Recommended depth: 4-6 inches
  • Compaction: Order 20% extra for settling
Best Uses:
  • Driveway and pathway base
  • Under concrete slabs
  • French drain systems
  • Parking areas and patios

Soil & Compost

Coverage Guidelines:
  • 1 cubic yard covers: ~80 sq ft at 4" deep
  • Recommended depth: 4-6 inches for new beds
  • Top dressing: 1-2 inches annually
Best Uses:
  • New garden bed preparation
  • Lawn renovation and overseeding
  • Raised garden beds
  • Soil amendment and improvement

Professional Ordering Tips

Order Extra Material

Always order 10-15% extra to account for settling, waste, and future touch-ups. It's easier and more cost-effective than placing a second order.

Measure Carefully

Break irregular areas into rectangles and triangles. Measure twice, order once. Consider slopes and uneven terrain that may require additional material.

Plan Ahead

Order materials 1-2 days before you need them. This ensures availability and allows time for any delivery scheduling adjustments.

Project Success Tips

Before You Start
  • Call 811 to mark underground utilities
  • Check with HOA for landscaping restrictions
  • Plan your design and layout first
  • Prepare the area by removing weeds and debris
  • Install edging before adding materials
Installation Best Practices
  • Install landscape fabric for weed control
  • Grade for proper drainage away from structures
  • Compact base materials in lifts
  • Water decorative materials to settle dust
  • Rake and level materials evenly

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Ordering Too Little Material

Many customers underestimate their needs and have to place additional orders.

Solution: Use our calculator and add 10-15% extra for best results.

Skipping Site Preparation

Poor preparation leads to uneven coverage and material waste.

Solution: Level, clear, and compact the area before delivery.

Wrong Material for Application

Using decorative rock where mulch is better, or vice versa.

Solution: Consult our material guide or call for advice.

Ignoring Drainage

Poor drainage can cause water damage and material displacement.

Solution: Always slope away from buildings and plan for water flow.

Seasonal Landscaping Tips

Spring

Best time for soil amendments, mulch refresh, and new plantings. Order compost and mulch early.

Summer

Focus on drought-resistant materials. Decorative rock projects work well. Avoid heavy soil work in extreme heat.

Fall

Perfect for hardscaping projects. Install base rock and pathways. Prepare beds for winter with mulch.

Winter

Plan your spring projects. Winter is great for stone and rock installations when weather permits.

Still Have Questions?

Our experienced team is here to help you make the right choices for your project. Get personalized advice and material recommendations.