1. What is Rubber Mulch?

Rubber mulch is a type of mulch made from recycled rubber, primarily used in landscaping and playgrounds. It provides excellent durability and cushioning compared to organic mulches.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the rubber mulch formula:

Where:

• \( Area \) — Area to be covered in square feet
• \( Depth \) — Desired depth of mulch in inches
• 324 — Conversion factor (12 inches/foot × 27 cubic feet/cubic yard)

Explanation: The formula converts square footage and depth into cubic yards of mulch needed.

3. Importance of Proper Mulch Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation ensures you purchase the right amount of mulch - not too little that leaves bare spots, nor too much that wastes money and creates potential safety hazards.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure your area accurately in square feet. Typical mulch depths range from 2-4 inches for landscaping. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How much area does a cubic yard of rubber mulch cover?
A: At 3-inch depth, one cubic yard covers about 108 square feet (324 ÷ 3 = 108).

Q2: Is rubber mulch better than wood mulch?
A: Rubber mulch lasts longer and doesn't decompose, but is more expensive initially. It's excellent for playgrounds due to its cushioning effect.

Q3: How often should rubber mulch be replaced?
A: Rubber mulch typically lasts 10+ years, though it may need occasional raking to maintain appearance.

Q4: Can rubber mulch be used in vegetable gardens?
A: Not recommended for edible gardens as it may leach chemicals into the soil over time.

Q5: Does rubber mulch get hot in summer?
A: It can get warmer than organic mulch, but proper depth (2-3 inches) helps mitigate this.