question on measuring mulch!

[zmak]

I have about 5300 square feet to mulch at about 2 in thick.
How many yards of mulch do you think I will need.
and how do you come up with your numbers.
Thanks.

[gwwilson]

31.55 yards of mulch

2" = 168 sq ft
3" = 126 sq ft
4" = 84 sq ft

[glennd]

This is the formula I use and it works pretty good. 1 Cubic yard mulch, 2 inches thick will cover an area 144 sq ft. 1 Cubic yard of mulch, 3 inches thick will cover an area 100 sq ft. So with you having an area 5300 sq ft, divide 144 sq ft into 5300 sq ft = 36.8 yards. So you'd be safe with 36-37 yards. Just my .02