Calculate how much sand you need in cubic yards, tons and bags for pavers, a sandbox or other projects. This sand calculator also estimates cost.
How to calculate sand
Tons = Length × Width × Depth (ft) ÷ 27 × density
Dry sand weighs about 1.35 tons (2,700 lb) per cubic yard. Wet sand is heavier.
Example
A 10 × 12 ft paver patio with a 1-inch sand bedding layer: 120 × 0.0833 = 10 cubic feet = 0.37 cubic yards, or about 0.5 tons of sand. That is about 20 bags of 0.5 cu ft.
Typical sand depths
- Paver bedding layer: about 1 inch, over a compacted gravel base.
- Sandbox: often 6–12 inches.
- Leveling under above-ground pools or sheds: follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Types of sand
Concrete sand is coarse and used for paver bedding and concrete mixes. Masonry sand is finer and used in mortar. Play sand is washed and screened for sandboxes. Polymeric sand is a special product for filling paver joints.
Frequently asked questions
How many tons is a yard of sand?
About 1.35 tons when dry, and more when wet.
How many 50 lb bags of sand make a ton?
40 bags of 50 lb make one ton (2,000 lb).