Sand Calculator
Area and depth to tons and cubic yards of sand needed for a paver base or play area.
Sand needed
The volume math is the same as gravel: length times width times depth (converted to feet), divided by 27 for cubic yards. Sand runs slightly lighter than crushed stone, averaging around 1.35 tons per cubic yard, though wet sand weighs more than dry.
For a paver patio or walkway, the bedding sand layer is typically screeded to a uniform 1 in depth over a compacted gravel base — that thin, level layer is what lets the pavers settle in evenly. For a sandbox or play area depth is a design choice, commonly 6-12 in.
Polymeric jointing sand (swept into paver gaps after laying) is a separate, much smaller quantity and isn't what this calculator covers — it's typically bought by the bag based on paver square footage and joint width.
Where these numbers come from
These are planning estimates. Check product labels, your local building code, and a licensed contractor before you buy materials or build.
Frequently asked questions
How deep should paver bedding sand be?
1 in, screeded flat and level, is the standard depth for the bedding layer under pavers, sitting on top of a properly compacted gravel base.
Is this the same as polymeric jointing sand?
No. This calculates the bedding layer sand under the pavers. Jointing sand swept into the gaps between pavers afterward is a much smaller quantity, usually bought by the bag based on square footage and joint width.
Does wet sand weigh more than dry?
Yes, noticeably — wet sand can weigh 20-25% more per cubic yard than dry. If you're buying by weight from a supplier who stores sand outdoors, ask whether their tonnage estimates assume wet or dry material.
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