Calculating Irregular Areas

These may not offer perfect calculations but will give you a more accurate cubic yard measurement when ordering topsoil.

Square Area Calculation
This is the standard method shown in STEP 1 above.
Length x Width
Curved Side Area
Move your measurement left or right along the curve to balance the area to be covered with the area that is not to be covered. If this is still too difficult to judge, follow guideline for Odd Shapes shown below.
Length x Width
Joined Shapes Areas
Visually divide the area to be covered into parts for easier measurement. As shown here, dividing this area into three parts makes things easier. In this case, measure the two rectangles and one triangle, then add them together.
Length x Width for top rectangle area
PLUS
Length x Width for bottom rectangle area
PLUS
Length(b.) x Width(a.) ÷ 2 for the triangle area
Odd Shape Areas
Try to find square shapes within an odd shape and add them together. In this example, there are three squares found in an odd shape.
Length x Width for top rectangle area
PLUS
Length x Width for center rectangle area
PLUS
Length x Width for bottom rectangle area

Reference for calculations and page content http://backwoodsexcavating.com/calculate-cubic-yards.php