Let’s be honest—Wharton, NJ folks don’t mess around when it comes to getting things done right, especially when it comes to outdoor projects. Whether you’re leveling your backyard, prepping for a new patio, or reshaping a slope in your front yard, one material that almost always comes into play is fill dirt. But the million-dollar question is: how much fill dirt do you actually need?
At Kirk Allen Landscape Supply, we’ve helped plenty of Wharton locals figure this out, and trust us—it’s not as complicated as it might seem. We’re going to break it all down for you in a way that’s easy to follow, and we’ll even sprinkle in a few local references so it doesn’t feel like you’re reading a textbook.
Why Fill Dirt Matters in Wharton Projects
Before we jump into the calculations, let’s talk about why fill dirt is so essential around here. Wharton, located right in the heart of Morris County, has a mix of terrain—from sloped backyards to uneven driveways. Homeowners and contractors often need to raise or level out land before laying down patios, installing sheds, or even creating proper drainage.
We get it—you’re not just moving dirt around for fun. Whether you’re near Hugh Force Canal Park or closer to Wharton Borough School, chances are your property wasn’t perfectly flat when you bought it. That’s where fill and screened fill from Kirk Allen Landscape Supply come into play.
What Is Fill Dirt, Anyway?
Let’s clear up the basics first. Fill dirt is the unsung hero of many landscaping jobs. Unlike top soil, which is nutrient-rich and ideal for growing plants, fill dirt is used purely for structural purposes. It’s composed of subsoil, sand, clay, and rock—basically the stable stuff that doesn’t shift around.
We offer regular fill and screened fill here at Kirk Allen. The difference? Screened fill has been sifted to remove larger rocks and debris, making it easier to spread and compact—especially useful if you’re filling areas around utilities or walkways.
How to Calculate How Much Fill Dirt You Need
Okay, let’s talk numbers—but don’t worry, we’ll keep it simple.
Step 1: Measure Your Project Area
Grab a tape measure (or your phone’s measuring app—whatever works) and find the length, width, and depth of the space you’re filling. For example, say you’re filling in a 10 ft. x 15 ft. area and want to raise it by 1 foot.
Step 2: Convert to Cubic Yards
We sell fill dirt by the cubic yard, so here’s how to calculate that:
Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Depth (ft) ÷ 27 = Cubic Yards
Using our example:
10 × 15 × 1 = 150 ÷ 27 = 5.56 cubic yards
You’d want to round up, just to be safe—so you’d order 6 cubic yards of fill.
Tip: Always Order a Bit Extra
Especially around Wharton where weather can quickly change plans, it’s smart to order about 10% more than your calculations. You don’t want to be halfway done and realize you’re short. Trust us—it happens more often than you’d think.
Local Example: A Backyard Fix in Wharton
One of our regular customers from the Hibernia Avenue area had a backyard with a major dip right in the middle. It collected water after every storm and made mowing a nightmare. They came to us for help calculating how much fill dirt was needed to level it out.
After measuring and using our simple cubic yard formula, they ordered 8 yards of screened fill. A few weekends later, problem solved. The backyard now drains properly, looks cleaner, and is prepped for a patio next summer.
Choosing the Right Materials for the Job
While fill dirt is the backbone of many projects, it’s often just the first step. After the area is filled and compacted, you may need a finishing layer of something more refined. That’s where other products at Kirk Allen Landscape Supply shine.
Need to install pavers or a shed foundation? Grab some stone dust or Q-P Grey for a solid, compact base.
Looking to regrade and then plant? Top off your fill with some nutrient-rich top soil.
Want to cover the area with mulch after landscaping? Try our cedar, hemlock, or dyed mulch options for a polished look.
All these materials are available at our yard—and yes, we deliver to Wharton and surrounding areas.
How to Order from Kirk Allen Landscape Supply
Ordering is as simple as giving us a call. Our team is happy to walk you through how much material you need based on your measurements. If you’re not sure whether to go with fill, screened fill, or something else entirely, we’ll guide you.
Call us at +1 973-347-3117 and ask for help calculating your material needs—we’ll make it easy.
You can also visit our yard, just a short drive from Wharton. Many locals stop by on Saturdays to chat about weekend projects or to load up on supplies. Whether you’re tackling a small backyard fix or a major landscape overhaul, we’ve got your back.
Quick Tips for Success with Fill Dirt
Compact in layers: Don’t dump it all at once. Spread and compact every 6 inches to avoid future settling.
Call before you dig: Especially in older neighborhoods like Wharton’s historic district, you never know what’s underground.
Check your slope: If you’re aiming for drainage, make sure your fill has at least a 2% grade away from buildings.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Guess—Calculate and Call Kirk Allen
Landscaping projects in Wharton can be a breeze when you have the right materials and a little know-how. Whether you’re leveling out a corner of your property or prepping for your next hardscaping project, figuring out how much fill dirt you need is step one.
Instead of stressing over math or making multiple trips to the yard, just call Kirk Allen Landscape Supply at +1 973-347-3117. We’ll help you plan, calculate, and deliver the right materials straight to your door.
Got a project you’re working on in Wharton? Stop by, give us a call, or share your experience with us. At Kirk Allen, we’re not just selling dirt—we’re helping you build something great.
Need fill dirt or landscaping materials in Wharton, NJ? Trust the experts at Kirk Allen Landscape Supply—local, reliable, and ready to help you get the job done right.
