What is the Sand Calculator?

The Sand Calculator is a free online tool that helps you calculate results instantly. Enter your values above and click Calculate to see results.

Is the Sand Calculator free?

Yes, the Sand Calculator is completely free to use with no registration required. You can use it as many times as you need on any device.

How accurate is this calculator?

Our Sand Calculator uses standard formulas for accurate results. For critical decisions, always verify with a qualified professional.

Sand Calculator

Calculate how much sand you need for a landscaping, construction, or play area project. Choose the sand type, enter your dimensions, and get results in cubic yards, tons, and 50-lb bags instantly.

Sand Volume & Weight Calculator

Length (ft)

Width (ft)

Depth (inches)

Sand Type

Sand Weight & Volume Reference

Sand density varies depending on moisture content and how tightly it is packed. Use these approximate values when planning your project:

Sand Type	Density (lb/ft³)	Density (kg/m³)	Best For
Dry sand	~100	~1,600	Leveling, fill, concrete mix
Wet sand	~120	~1,920	Beach, play areas, recently rained
Packed sand	~130	~2,080	Compacted base layers

Tons = (L × W × (D ÷ 12) × density) ÷ 2,000

Cubic yards = cubic feet ÷ 27. One 50-lb bag covers approximately 0.5 cubic feet at 2 inches deep.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many cubic yards of sand do I need for a sandbox?+

A standard backyard sandbox measuring 6 ft × 6 ft with 6 inches of sand requires: 6 × 6 × 0.5 ft = 18 cubic feet = 0.67 cubic yards. At 100 lb/ft³ for dry sand, that's 1,800 lbs or about 0.9 tons. That's roughly 36 bags of 50-lb sand. Most play sand is sold in 50-lb bags, so plan on 36–40 bags for a 6×6 sandbox.

How deep should sand be under pavers?+

The recommended sand base depth under pavers is 1 inch of bedding sand over a properly compacted gravel sub-base. The gravel base should be 4–6 inches for patios and walkways, or 6–8 inches for driveways. Avoid using more than 1 inch of bedding sand — thicker layers can shift and cause pavers to become uneven over time.

How to Calculate Sand Needed

Calculating the right amount of sand prevents costly over-ordering and time-wasting return trips to the supply store. The key variables are area (length × width) and depth — which together give you volume. Most materials are sold by the cubic yard (27 cubic feet) or by the bag/pallet.

The Basic Formula

Volume (cubic feet) = Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Depth (ft)

Cubic yards = Cubic feet ÷ 27

Always add 10% for waste, spillage, and uneven surfaces. It's cheaper to have a little extra than to run short mid-project.

How to Use This Calculator

Measure your area in feet (length and width, or use square footage if you know it)
Enter the required depth or thickness in inches
Click Calculate to see cubic yards, cubic feet, and approximate bag quantities
Add 10% to the result for waste before placing your order

Common Depth Guidelines

Walkways and patios (sand): 4 inches thick minimum
Driveways (sand): 6 inches thick for passenger vehicles
Gravel driveways: 4–6 inches deep
Mulch: 2–3 inches for weed suppression; 3–4 inches in hot climates
Topsoil for lawns: 4–6 inches minimum for good root development

Ordering Tips

Ready-mix concrete is delivered in trucks and is cost-effective for large pours (over 1 cubic yard). For smaller projects, bagged concrete mix works well — an 80-lb bag covers about 0.6 cubic feet when mixed. Calculate the number of bags by dividing your total cubic feet by 0.6.