Sand Calculator
Estimate the cubic yards and tons of sand for a sandbox, paver base, or leveling layer.
Calculator
| Cubic yards to order (+5%) | 0.65 yd³ |
|---|---|
| Cubic yards (exact) | 0.62 yd³ |
| Cubic feet | 16.7 ft³ |
How it is calculated
10 ft × 10 ft × 2 in ÷ 12 = 16.7 cubic feet = 0.62 cubic yards. Add 5% for settling and uneven ground: 0.65 cubic yards (about 0.91 tons).
About this calculator
Sand has several uses: about 1 inch under pavers, several inches in a sandbox, and as an ingredient in concrete and mortar. The volume is area × depth, and the tonnage uses 1.4 tons per cubic yard for dry sand.
Different jobs call for different sand. Play sand is washed and screened for sandboxes, concrete sand suits paver beds and mixes, and fill sand is for backfill. Wet sand is heavier than dry sand.
Worked examples
| Project | Tons (about 1.4 t/yd³, +5%) | Rough cost |
|---|---|---|
| a 10x10 ft area covered with 1 in of sand | 0.45 tons | $9.07 – $27.22 |
| a 4x4 ft area covered with 6 in of sand | 0.44 tons | $8.71 – $26.13 |
| a 12x12 ft area covered with 2 in of sand | 1.31 tons | $26.13 – $78.40 |
| a 20x20 ft area covered with 1 in of sand | 1.81 tons | $36.30 – $109 |
Buying notes
- Match the sand type to the job, especially for play areas.
- Cover stored sand so it does not get soaked, which adds weight.
- Order a little extra; sand compacts once it is spread and wetted.
Quick answers by size
Click a size for the exact quantity and cost.
How to measure and use this calculator
- Measure the area and decide the depth: about 1 inch for paver beds, deeper for a sandbox.
- Enter the numbers and read cubic yards and tons.
- Choose the right sand type for the job (washed, play or concrete sand).
- Add a small allowance for waste.
Common mistakes
- Using the wrong type of sand for a play area.
- Forgetting that wet sand weighs more than dry sand.
- Making the paver sand bed too thick.
Tips
- Dry sand weighs about 1.4 tons per cubic yard; damp sand is heavier.
- Paver leveling beds are usually about 1 inch of sand; sandboxes need 6 inches or more.
- Use washed or play sand for sandboxes, not construction fill.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cubic yard of sand weigh?
Roughly 2,800 pounds (1.4 tons) when dry; wet sand can weigh noticeably more.
How much sand do I need for a sandbox?
Sandboxes are often filled 6 to 12 inches deep. Enter your sandbox size and that depth to get the volume.
Is sold-by-the-ton or by-the-yard cheaper?
It depends on the supplier. Compare the two prices using the yards-to-tons conversion shown above.