Sand Calculator
Get cubic yards, tons and bags of sand from the area and depth
Why a range and not one number: sand (dry) is quoted at about 2,700 lb per cubic yard, but the real figure runs from 2,600 to 3,200 lb. Dry sand at the low end. Wet sand runs roughly 25 % heavier, which is the single biggest source of error here. Order against the cubic yards — suppliers convert to tons using their own material’s density, and that is the number that should win.
The calculation
cubic yards = (length x width x depth in inches / 12) / 27
The two conversions in that line are where the mistakes happen. Depth is quoted in inches while the area is in feet, so it must be divided by 12 first; and a cubic yard is 27 cubic feet, not 3, because it is 3 ft in each of three directions.
How deep should it go?
| Use | Typical depth |
|---|---|
| Bedding sand under pavers | 1 in, screeded level and not compacted |
| Paver joint sand | fills the joints; allow roughly 1 bag per 30–40 sq ft |
| Sandbox | 10–12 in so children can dig |
| Base for an above-ground pool | 2 in of levelled sand |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I work out how much sand I need?
Multiply the area by the depth, then convert to cubic yards. A bed 20 ft by 10 ft at 3 in deep is 200 sq ft x 0.25 ft = 50 cubic feet, and 50 / 27 = 1.85 cubic yards. Depth is the input people get wrong, because it is given in inches while everything else is in feet.
How many tons is a cubic yard of sand?
About 1.35 US tons, using a typical density of 2,700 lb per cubic yard. The honest range is 1.30 to 1.60 tons. Dry sand at the low end. Wet sand runs roughly 25 % heavier, which is the single biggest source of error here.
Should I order by cubic yards or by tons?
By cubic yards wherever you can. Volume is fixed by your measurements, while tonnage depends on the density of the specific material on the day — including how wet it is. If a supplier quotes tons, let them do the conversion from your yardage using their own density.
Should I add extra for settling?
Usually yes. Loose material compacts once it is spread and walked on, and every job loses a little to spillage and uneven subgrade. Ordering 5 to 10 percent over the calculated volume is normal; running short mid-job costs a second delivery charge.