Sand Calculator
Coverage math for paver base, boxes, and playgrounds — not a masonry bid. Click any i for detail.
Bed or box
Area (sq ft)
i
Area
Surface you are covering. |
|
|---|---|
Depth (inches)
i
Depth
Paver bedding is often 1 in; sandbox fill is deeper. |
|
Density (tons/yd³)
i
Density
Dry play/mason sand is often ~1.3–1.4 tons per cubic yard. Damp sand is heavier. |
|
Waste (%)
i
Waste
Compaction and irregular edges. 10% is a common adder. |
How to use this calculator
- Enter area.
- Set depth.
- Use the supplier’s tons/yard if they sell by weight.
- Add waste for compaction.
Results explained
Same volume math as gravel or topsoil with a sand density default. Paver count is the paver calculator; this page is the sand bed.
Quick reference: sand
1 cubic yard covers about 162 sq ft at 2 inches.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| 1 in over 100 sq ft | ≈ 0.31 yd³ |
| 2 in over 100 sq ft | ≈ 0.62 yd³ |
| Default density | 1.35 tons/yd³ |
| Paver bedding | Often ~1 in |
Polymeric joint sand is sold by the bag — not this bulk volume.
How the estimate is built
cu yd = (sq ft × inches) ÷ 324, then × (1 + waste%). Tons = yards × density.
Example scenario
200 sq ft × 2 in with 10% waste ≈ 1.36 yd³ ≈ 1.8 tons at 1.35 t/yd³.
FAQ
Gravel instead?
Use the gravel calculator and a stone density.
Bags?
Divide ordered yards × 27 by bag cubic feet.
Play vs masonry sand?
Volume is the same; spec the product with your supplier.