Sand Calculator – Sand Volume & Weight Estimator
Calculate sand volume and weight for your project
Table of Contents
How to Use
- Select your unit system (feet or meters)
- Enter the length, width, and depth of your area
- Enter sand density (default is typical sand at 1600 kg/m³)
- Click calculate to get sand requirements
Types of Sand for Construction
Different types of sand are used for various construction and landscaping purposes. Understanding which type you need is essential for accurate calculations.
- Concrete Sand: Fine sand used for concrete mixing and paving (1600 kg/m³)
- Mason Sand: Very fine sand used for masonry work and sandboxes (1550 kg/m³)
- All-Purpose Sand: General construction sand for various applications (1600 kg/m³)
- Fill Sand: Coarse sand used for filling and leveling (1650 kg/m³)
- Beach Sand: Natural sand for landscaping (1450 kg/m³)
How to Calculate Sand Needed
To calculate the amount of sand needed, you need to know the area dimensions and desired depth. The basic formula is: Volume = Length × Width × Depth
Once you have the volume, multiply by the sand density to get the weight. Common sand densities range from 1450 to 1700 kg/m³ depending on moisture content and compaction.
Common Sand Applications
- Concrete mixing and mortar preparation
- Paver base and patio installations
- Sandbox and play area fill
- Landscaping and garden beds
- Pool base and leveling
- French drains and drainage systems
- Beach volleyball courts
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many cubic yards of sand do I need?
- To calculate cubic yards of sand, multiply length × width × depth (all in yards), or use this calculator to convert from feet or meters. For example, a 10×10 ft area with 4 inches depth needs about 1.23 cubic yards.
- How much does a yard of sand weigh?
- A cubic yard of typical dry sand weighs between 2,400 to 2,900 pounds (1.2 to 1.45 tons). Wet sand can weigh up to 3,000 pounds per cubic yard due to moisture content.
- How many bags of sand do I need?
- A standard 50 lb bag of sand covers approximately 0.5 cubic feet. For accurate bag calculations, use this calculator which accounts for your specific area size and depth.
- What's the difference between play sand and construction sand?
- Play sand is finer, cleaner, and free from sharp particles, making it safe for children. Construction sand is coarser with larger particles and may contain small rocks, making it better for structural applications but not suitable for sandboxes.
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