Calculate exactly how much sand you need for sandboxes, paver bases, leveling, concrete mix, and landscaping projects. Get instant estimates in cubic yards, tons, and bags.
10-15% typical for sand spillage and settling
Ready to calculate
Enter your project dimensions
$32/ton
Fine grain, sandbox safe
$38/ton
For mortar/concrete mix
$42/ton
For paver base
$20/ton
General fill/grading
$25/bag
For paver joints (50lb bag)
Why expert review matters
Every calculator is reviewed by certified professionals to ensure accuracy.Hawkin's CCP, CEP certification ensures professional-grade precision.
324 sq ft/yd³
Paver base
162 sq ft/yd³
Standard base
54 sq ft/yd³
Deep fill
27 sq ft/yd³
Sandboxes
How much sand do I need for my project?
Length × width × (depth in inches ÷ 12) ÷ 27 = cubic yards. Add 10-15% waste.
How much does sand weigh?
Sand weighs 1.3-1.4 tons per cubic yard depending on type and moisture content.
Play sand vs masonry sand?
Play sand is fine/washed for safety. Masonry sand is coarser for mortar/concrete.
How deep for pavers?
1 inch for walkways, 1.5-2 inches for driveways. Compact before laying pavers.
Our sand calculator determines the exact amount of material needed based on your project's dimensions and application type. The calculation converts your measurements to cubic yards and tons, accounting for the density of different sand types (ranging from 1.3 to 1.45 tons per cubic yard). We also include a waste factor to ensure you order enough material for spillage, uneven areas, and proper compaction.
Formula
Length × Width × (Depth ÷ 12) = Cubic Feet
Cubic Feet ÷ 27 × Density = Tons needed
Add waste factor for final amount