Sand Calculator
Use this sand calculator to estimate the amount of sand needed for playgrounds, patios, pool bases, pavers, construction and landscaping projects using standard US measurements.
Tons = Volume × 0.056 | Cubic Yards = Volume ÷ 27
Sand density ~100 lbs/cu ft · 1 ton ≈ 18 cu ft · covers ~200 sq ft at 1" depth · Bulk sand $25–$50/ton
Estimates based on 2026 US average pricing. Always confirm pricing with your local supplier.
How Does the Sand Calculator Work?
This sand calculator estimates how many tons and cubic yards of sand you need based on your area dimensions and desired depth. It uses a standard bulk sand density of approximately 100 lbs per cubic foot.
Steps:
- Enter your area length and width in feet.
- Enter the desired depth in inches — 1 inch for paver base leveling, 4 inches for playground sand.
- Get instant results — tons, cubic yards, cubic feet, and estimated cost.
For paver installation, use 1 inch of coarse sand (bedding sand) on top of your compacted gravel base. Don't use play sand or fine sand for paver bases — it doesn't compact properly.
Sand Coverage at Common Depths
Use this quick reference chart to estimate your material needs before using the calculator above.
Sand Coverage at Common Depths
| Depth | 1 Ton Covers | 100 Sq Ft Needs | 500 Sq Ft Needs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 inch | ~200 sq ft | 0.5 tons | 2.5 tons |
| 2 inches | ~100 sq ft | 1 ton | 5 tons |
| 3 inches | ~65 sq ft | 1.5 tons | 7.7 tons |
| 4 inches | ~50 sq ft | 2 tons | 10 tons |
| 6 inches | ~33 sq ft | 3 tons | 15 tons |
Sand Cost by Type (2026)
Prices vary by type, quality, and region. Here are 2026 US average prices to help you budget your project.
Sand Cost by Type (2026)
| Sand Type | Bulk per Ton | Bulk per Cu Yd | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fill / Mason Sand | $20 – $35 | $25 – $45 | Mortar, general fill |
| Coarse / Concrete Sand | $25 – $45 | $30 – $55 | Concrete, paver base |
| Play / Beach Sand | $30 – $55 | $40 – $65 | Playgrounds, volleyball |
| Polymeric / Joint Sand | $25 – $50 | Per bag | Paver joints |
Use coarse concrete sand for paver bases and concrete mixing. Use play sand for sandboxes and volleyball courts. Use mason sand for mortar and stucco. Never use fine beach sand for structural applications — it doesn't compact and will shift under load.
Example Calculation
You need 1 inch of bedding sand under a 20 ft × 15 ft paver patio.
20 ft × 15 ft = 300 sq ft
Volume (cu ft):300 × (1÷12) = 300 × 0.083 = 25 cu ft
Cubic yards:25 ÷ 27 = 0.93 cubic yards
Tons needed:25 × 0.0556 = ~1.4 tons
Cost (coarse sand $35/ton):1.4 × $35 = ~$49
Buying & Ordering Tips
- Order early — call your supplier 1–2 days ahead for bulk delivery, especially during spring and summer when demand is high.
- Confirm truck size — standard dump trucks hold 10–14 cubic yards. Always confirm the exact capacity before ordering.
- Add waste factor — always order 10–15% more than your calculated amount to account for uneven ground, settling, and waste.
- Compare 3 suppliers — prices for bulk materials vary significantly between suppliers. Always get at least 3 quotes for large orders.
- Check delivery access — confirm the delivery truck can access your property before ordering. Some sites may require a smaller truck at higher cost per yard.