Sand Calculator
Planning a paving project, filling a sandbox, or leveling a garden bed? The first challenge is figuring out how much sand you actually need. Order too little and the job stalls; order too much and you waste money and storage space. The sand calculator on this page gives you a quick, accurate estimate of the volume, weight, and even cost of sand – using the dimensions of your area and the type of sand you choose.
Whether you’re working in feet, meters, or yards, the estimator accepts length, width, and depth, then converts everything to match the density units. Select from common sand types like river sand, sharp sand, or play sand, or enter a custom density to handle any granular material.
The calculator requires your area’s length, width, and depth, and a sand type. It instantly computes the volume, weight, and optional total cost. Adjust the units to match your site measurements.
How to Calculate Sand Volume by Hand
If you prefer to work out the numbers yourself, the formula is straightforward:
Volume = Length × Width × Depth
Make sure all measurements use the same unit. For a rectangular area 10 feet long, 8 feet wide, and with a 4‑inch sand layer:
- Convert depth to feet: 4 inches ÷ 12 = 0.333 ft
- Volume = 10 × 8 × 0.333 = 26.64 cubic feet
To get cubic yards (the usual unit for bulk sand orders), divide by 27:
- 26.64 ÷ 27 ≈ 0.99 cubic yards
For metric projects, multiply meters: length × width × depth (in meters) gives cubic meters directly.
If the area is circular, calculate π × radius² × depth and proceed the same way.
Sand Density and Common Types
Weight estimates depend entirely on density. Loose, dry sand occupies more space per ton than damp, compacted sand. The table below lists typical values for common sand types at average moisture levels.
| Sand Type | Density (dry, loose) | Density (moist, compacted) |
|---|---|---|
| River sand | 1,600 kg/m³ (100 lb/ft³) | 1,800 kg/m³ (112 lb/ft³) |
| Sharp sand / concrete sand | 1,550 kg/m³ (97 lb/ft³) | 1,750 kg/m³ (109 lb/ft³) |
| Play sand (fine) | 1,450 kg/m³ (90 lb/ft³) | 1,650 kg/m³ (103 lb/ft³) |
| Beach sand (shell‑rich) | 1,500 kg/m³ (94 lb/ft³) | 1,700 kg/m³ (106 lb/ft³) |
Moisture can add up to 20% to the weight. If your sand is visibly wet, use the higher density value for a safer estimate. The sand calculator applies the density you select to convert volume into weight, so pick the option that matches your material’s condition.
How Much Sand Do I Need for Sandboxes, Patios, and Other Projects?
Sandbox: A standard 4 ft × 4 ft sandbox with a 6‑inch sand layer needs about 0.3 cubic yards of sand. For a larger 6 ft × 6 ft box at the same depth, plan on roughly 0.67 cubic yards.
Paver or patio base: A 100 ft² patio with a 2‑inch sand screed layer requires 0.62 cubic yards. For a 200 ft² area, double it to about 1.23 cubic yards.
Garden path (20 ft long, 3 ft wide, 3 inches deep): Volume is 15 cubic feet, or 0.56 cubic yards.
Driveway sub‑base (30 ft × 10 ft, 4 inches deep): You’ll need around 3.7 cubic yards.
These examples use dry river sand (100 lb/ft³). Adjust the number if your sand type differs. For any project, enter your exact dimensions into the calculator above to get a tailored result.
The calculations provide estimates. For large structural or load‑bearing installations, consult a professional and always check with your supplier about the specific density of the sand you are purchasing.