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How Much Sandy Loam (Screened Topsoil) Do I Need?
Assumes Sandy Loam ≈ 22 ft³ per ton. Coverage varies with moisture & compaction.
Sales tax (varies by county) is added at checkout.
About Sandy Loam (Screened Topsoil)
Sandy Loam, also called screened topsoil, is a blend of mineral soil, sand, and natural river silt that has been processed through a mechanical screener to remove large debris and clumps. It is widely used in Upstate South Carolina for lawns, gardens, landscaping beds, and general planting because it balances drainage with nutrient retention.
The screening process improves consistency and makes spreading easier. However, like all bulk natural soils, it may contain occasional small twigs, pebbles, or organic fragments that the screener missed.
Because sandy loam drains better than clay but still holds moisture and nutrients, it is favored for establishing turf grass, garden beds, and ornamental plants. Local landscapers and homeowners use it as a topdressing before seeding or sodding and as a soil amendment in planting projects.
Local Applications in Upstate SC
Sod & Lawn Base: Spread 2–4″ thick under sod rolls or seed for strong root establishment.
Gardens & Beds: Improves native red clay for vegetables, ornamentals, and shrubs.
Erosion Repair: Provides a stable layer for reseeding and stabilizing slopes.
General Landscaping: Used to level low spots, prepare planting beds, or reshape small yard areas.
Coverage & Density
Density: averages ~22 cubic feet per ton
Coverage: One ton of Sandy Loam covers ~80–90 sq ft at 3″ depth, or ~55–60 sq ft at 4″ depth..
Note: Compaction reduces spread by ~10–15%.
Comparison to Other Materials
Fill Dirt (Clay Soil): Heavier, compacts better, but poor for plant growth. Sandy Loam is superior for lawns and gardens.
River Sand: Drains faster and is often used for horse arenas or under slabs. Sandy Loam is better suited for grass and plants.
Screenings: A granite byproduct used for compaction. Not suitable for planting.
Local Performance in Upstate SC
Spartanburg & Greenville Lawns: Frequently used under Bermuda and fescue sod to improve growth on clay-heavy soils.
Union & Cherokee Gardens: Mixed with existing topsoil for vegetables and ornamentals, reducing clay crusting.
Erosion Areas: Applied for reseeding after storm damage, providing a nutrient-rich top layer.
Residential Grading: Used to smooth out yards in new construction before planting grass.
FAQ – Sandy Loam (Upstate South Carolina)
What is Sandy Loam?
A screened topsoil blend of sand, silt, and organic matter, ideal for grass and planting.
Is Sandy Loam the same as Fill Dirt?
No. Fill dirt (clay) is dense and compactable, while Sandy Loam is nutrient-rich and used for planting.
How much does one ton cover?
~80–90 sq ft at 3″ depth; ~55–60 sq ft at 4″ depth.
Can Sandy Loam be used under sod?
Yes. It is the preferred base for sod in Upstate SC.
Is it good for horse arenas?
No. River Sand or Screened River Sand is better for arenas.
Can it be used for vegetable gardens?
Yes. It provides nutrients and drainage for most garden plants.
Does Sandy Loam compact?
Lightly, but not enough for structural bases. It is meant for planting, not driveways.
What’s the minimum order?
15–20 tons per order. Smaller quantities are not available.
Can Sandy Loam be tailgate spread?
Yes, though finer soil may not spread evenly compared to aggregates.
What areas do you deliver to?
Spartanburg, Greenville, Cherokee, Union, and Laurens Counties.
Disclaimer
Natural products vary in texture, color, and organic content. Quantities are approximate. See our Disclaimer & Terms of Delivery page for details.
