Sand volume + bags + optional tons
Sand Calculator
How much sand do I need? Enter the length, width, and sand depth of a rectangular sandbox, paver bedding layer, or fill area. Calculate cubic yards, cubic feet, whole bags, optional US tons, and material cost.
Example only
- Measured area
- 108 sq ft
- With 10% extra
- 29.7 cu ft
- Using 0.5 cu ft bags
- 60 whole bags
Your result uses your own measurements, not this example.
Choose and measure
How much area does a cubic yard of sand cover?
One cubic yard is 27 cubic feet. Divide that volume by the layer depth in feet to find its coverage. This level-layer comparison excludes extra allowance, compaction, and product-specific installation requirements; it does not assume a sand density.
| Layer depth | Coverage |
|---|---|
| 2 in | 162 sq ft |
| 3 in | 108 sq ft |
| 4 in | 81 sq ft |
| 6 in | 54 sq ft |
For a patio or walkway, the Paver Calculator also estimates paver pieces, compacted base, and bedding sand. Bedding sand is different from polymeric joint sand; choose the product and depth specified for your installation.
Measuring guide
Measure before you buy
Choose sand suitable for the job: play sand for a sandbox and a product specified for bedding under pavers. Measure the required fill depth and follow the installation instructions for your project.
Measure the space
Use feet for project length and width. Break irregular areas into rectangles and calculate each one.
Check the product
Use dimensions, packaging, and coverage from the specific material you plan to purchase.
Adjust the allowance
Change the starting 10% for the layout, cuts, spillage, and site conditions you expect.
The math
How this estimate is calculated
Cubic feet = length (ft) × width (ft) × depth (in) ÷ 12. Add the extra allowance, then divide by 27 for cubic yards. Whole bags = volume ÷ labeled bag volume, rounded up. US short tons = cubic yards × supplier density (US tons/cu yd). Bag cost = whole bags × price per bag; bulk cost = cubic yards × price per cubic yard.
Quantities are for material planning. Confirm order units, coverage, and installation details with the product or supplier.
Reference
Source behind this calculator
Compare your project against the manufacturer or retailer guidance for the material you choose.
Project guidance
Check the suggested measurements and confirm coverage for your chosen product.
Sakrete Natural Play Sand — bag yield and uses ↗Sand planning questions
Buying sand for your project
How many bags of sand do I need?
Use the volume printed on your bag. Sakrete lists a 0.5 cu ft yield for its Natural Play Sand; check your own product. One cubic yard is 27 cu ft, or 54 bags at 0.5 cu ft each before extra allowance.
How much does a yard of sand weigh?
Weight varies with moisture, grading, and the material. Enter your supplier’s bulk density to see US short tons; one US short ton is 2,000 lb. This tool does not assume a fixed sand density.
Does this calculate polymeric joint sand?
This estimates a layer of sand. Polymeric joint sand needs product coverage, joint width, and joint depth. Pool filter sand quantities also come from the equipment manufacturer.