How Much Sand Do I Need?
Calculate the right amount of sand for pavers, leveling, sandboxes, and landscaping. Get results in cubic yards and tons with cost estimates.
Quick Answer
A 10×10 ft paver base at 2 inches deep needs about 0.62 cubic yards of sand (~0.83 tons), costing roughly $12–$31.
Enter your dimensions above to calculate sand needed.
💡 1 cubic yard of sand covers approximately 162 sq ft at 2 inches deep
How to Calculate Sand Needed
Formula
Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Depth (in) ÷ 324 = Cubic Yards
Multiply your area's length by width to get square footage. Multiply by depth in inches, then divide by 324 to convert to cubic yards.
Example
For a 10 ft × 10 ft paver base with 2 inches of sand: 10 × 10 × 2 ÷ 324 = 0.62 cubic yards. At 1.35 tons per cubic yard, that's about 0.83 tons.
Tips & Best Practices
- •For paver base, use 1–2 inches of coarse bedding sand (ASTM C-33).
- •Sandbox sand should be play-grade, washed, and non-toxic — plan for 4–6 inches deep.
- •Compact sand in layers for best stability — water lightly as you go.
- •Sharp or coarse sand is best for construction; fine sand for play areas.
Quick Reference
1 cubic yard of sand covers approximately 162 sq ft at 2 inches deep
Sand Coverage per Cubic Yard
One cubic yard of sand covers approximately 162 square feet at 2 inches deep, or 324 square feet at 1 inch deep.
Use the table below to estimate how much sand you need based on depth before entering exact dimensions in the calculator.
| Depth | Coverage per Cubic Yard | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| 1 inch | ~324 sq ft | Paver bedding layer |
| 2 inches | ~162 sq ft | Leveling & grading |
| 4 inches | ~81 sq ft | Sandbox base |
| 6 inches | ~54 sq ft | Deep sandbox fill |
A cubic yard of sand weighs approximately 2,500–3,000 lbs (1.25–1.5 tons). Wet sand weighs significantly more than dry sand.
How Much Sand Do I Need Under Pavers?
You need 1 inch of coarse bedding sand under pavers, plus polymeric sand for the joints. A 100 sq ft patio needs about 0.31 cubic yards of bedding sand.
The bedding layer creates a smooth, level surface for setting pavers. Always use coarse, angular sand (ASTM C-33 spec) — never fine play sand.
| Patio Size | Bedding Sand (1") | Joint Sand (bags) | Est. Sand Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10×10 ft (100 sq ft) | 0.31 yd³ | 2–3 bags | $6–$16 |
| 12×16 ft (192 sq ft) | 0.59 yd³ | 4–6 bags | $12–$30 |
| 16×20 ft (320 sq ft) | 0.99 yd³ | 7–10 bags | $20–$50 |
Planning a paver patio? Estimate all paver materials →
How Much Sand for a Sandbox?
A 5×5 ft sandbox filled 6 inches deep needs about 0.46 cubic yards of play sand, or roughly 12 bags of 50-lb sand.
Fill sandboxes 4–6 inches deep with washed, non-toxic play sand. Here are common sandbox sizes:
| Sandbox Size | Sand Needed (6") | 50-lb Bags |
|---|---|---|
| 4×4 ft | 0.30 yd³ | ~8 bags |
| 5×5 ft | 0.46 yd³ | ~12 bags |
| 6×6 ft | 0.67 yd³ | ~18 bags |
| 8×8 ft | 1.19 yd³ | ~32 bags |
Types of Sand: Which to Use for Your Project
Different projects need different sand. Using the wrong type can cause drainage issues, settling, or safety problems.
Coarse / Bedding Sand (ASTM C-33)
Angular, sharp-edged sand. The standard for paver bedding and pipe bedding. Compacts well and provides good drainage. $20–$40/yd³.
Play Sand
Washed, fine-grain, non-toxic sand for sandboxes and play areas. Smoother texture than construction sand. $25–$40/yd³.
Polymeric Sand
Sand with polymer binders that hardens when wet. Used to fill joints between pavers. Prevents weed growth and insect intrusion. $20–$30 per 50-lb bag.
Masonry Sand
Fine, screenedsand for concrete mixing, mortar, and stucco. Also used for volleyball courts and golf course bunkers. $25–$50/yd³.
Ordering in bulk?
For mason sand or bedding sand in bulk, delivery pricing varies a lot by location. Compare local options before committing to a supplier at AggregateMarkets.
Prices and availability vary by location. Use code MEADOWLARK for 5% off your first bulk order.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a cubic yard of sand weigh?+
A cubic yard of sand weighs approximately 2,500–3,000 lbs (1.25–1.5 tons). Dry sand averages about 1.35 tons per cubic yard, while wet sand can weigh significantly more.
How much does sand cost?+
Sand typically costs $20–$50 per cubic yard for bulk delivery. Play sand is $25–$40/yd³, while masonry or specialty sand can run $30–$50/yd³.
How deep should sand be under pavers?+
Use 1 inch of coarse bedding sand under pavers, over a compacted 4–6 inch gravel base. The sand provides a smooth, level surface for setting pavers.
How much sand do I need for a sandbox?+
Fill a sandbox 4–6 inches deep. For a 5 ft × 5 ft sandbox at 6 inches deep, you need about 0.46 cubic yards (roughly 12 bags of 50-lb play sand).