Sand Calculator
Estimate how much sand you need for a paver base, sandbox, bedding layer or fill. Enter the area and depth to get the sand in cubic yards, tonnes and bags.
Sand Calculator Tool
How much sand do I need?
Sand is estimated by area × depth. Dry sand weighs about 1.6 t/m³ (wet sand is heavier, ≈1.92 t/m³). Common uses and depths:
- Paver setting bed: 2.5 cm (1 in) of coarse sand over a compacted base.
- Sandbox: fill to the desired play depth (often 20–30 cm / 8–12 in).
- Bedding / levelling: 2.5–5 cm (1–2 in).
For patios and paths, sand is paired with a crushed-stone base — see the patio gravel calculator.
Bags of sand
Bagged sand is commonly 25 kg; there are roughly 60 bags per cubic yard. Bulk sand by the tonne is far cheaper for larger jobs.
Frequently asked questions
How much sand do I need?
Multiply the area by the depth. A 100 ft² paver bed at 1 inch needs about 0.3 cubic yards (≈0.6 tonnes) of sand. The calculator shows cubic yards, tonnes and bags.
How much does a cubic yard of sand weigh?
About 1.2–1.4 tonnes for dry sand, and more when wet (up to ~1.5 tonnes per cubic yard).
How much sand for a paver base?
A 1 inch (2.5 cm) coarse-sand setting bed over a compacted crushed-stone base. Calculate the base separately with the patio or crushed gravel calculator.
How many bags of sand in a cubic yard?
Roughly 60 bags of 25 kg each per cubic yard; bulk sand is cheaper for larger areas.
More gravel calculators
Disclaimer: Results are estimates based on the values you enter and typical material densities. Actual quantities vary with gravel type, particle size, moisture and compaction. Cost estimates cover material only and exclude labour, delivery and taxes. Confirm quantities with your supplier.