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By the yard

Sand calculator

Estimate sand for bedding, base and fill for paver bedding, base sand and fill — in cubic yards and tons, with the density built in and editable.

Area & depth

FIG. 01
required
required
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Default density 1.3 tons/yd³ for sand for bedding, base and fill. Bulk material varies with moisture and compaction — override the density if your supplier quotes a specific figure.
You need
cu yd
Order to nearest ½ yd →
By weight
Coverage area

How this is calculated

Multiply area by depth and convert to cubic yards, then to tons (dry sand is about 1.3 tons per cubic yard; wet sand is heavier). For paver bedding, a 1-inch layer is typical.

cubic yards = (length × width × depth in ft) ÷ 27 · tons = cubic yards × 1.3

Densities vary by moisture and source; see the methodology for figures and sources. Other materials are on the materials hub.

FAQ

How much sand do I need?

Multiply area by depth and convert to cubic yards, then to tons (dry sand is about 1.3 tons per cubic yard; wet sand is heavier). For paver bedding, a 1-inch layer is typical.

How much does a yard of sand weigh?

Dry sand runs about 1.3 tons per cubic yard and wet sand closer to 1.6. Order by the conservative (wet) figure if your sand may have absorbed moisture.