Sand Calculator
Estimate sand volume and weight for patios and sandboxes.
Last updated 2026-08-21
What Is a Sand Calculator?
The sand calculator estimates how much sand you need for a sandbox, paver bedding, or patio base. Enter the length, width, and depth of the area to get the volume in cubic yards and the weight in tons.
How It Works
Volume = Length × Width × (Depth ÷ 12). Weight ≈ Cubic yards × 1.35 tons.
Example
A 6 ft × 6 ft sandbox at 6 in deep: 18 cu ft ≈ 0.67 cu yd → ~0.9 tons.
How to Calculate
- Measure the length and width of the area in feet. A 6 ft by 6 ft sandbox is 36 sq ft.
- Set the depth. Fill a sandbox 6 in deep, but use only about 1 in of leveling sand under pavers.
- Enter the dimensions. At 36 sq ft and 6 in deep, the volume is 18 cu ft, about 0.67 cubic yards.
- Read the weight. Sand weighs roughly 1.35 tons per cubic yard, so this comes to about 0.9 tons.
- Choose the right sand for the job, such as play sand for a sandbox or paver sand for patios.
Sand Volume and Weight by Depth
| Depth | Volume per 100 sq ft | Cubic Yards | Approx. Weight (tons) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 in | 8.3 cu ft | 0.31 cu yd | 0.4 tons |
| 2 in | 16.7 cu ft | 0.62 cu yd | 0.8 tons |
| 3 in | 25 cu ft | 0.93 cu yd | 1.2 tons |
| 4 in | 33.3 cu ft | 1.23 cu yd | 1.7 tons |
| 6 in | 50 cu ft | 1.85 cu yd | 2.5 tons |
Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of sand should I use?
Play sand for sandboxes, masonry/paver sand for patios, and coarse sand for mixing concrete.
How much does sand weigh?
Roughly 1.35 tons per cubic yard depending on moisture.
How deep for paver bedding?
About 1 in of leveling sand is typical under pavers on a compacted base.
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