What this calculator does
Sand volume is the area times the depth, and the weight follows from the density. Two hundred square feet at one inch deep is 16.67 cubic feet, weighing about 1,667 pounds.
The weight is the figure that changes plans. That modest patio needs eight hundred kilograms of sand, which is a delivery rather than a car boot full. Sand is roughly 100 pounds per cubic foot, so any bedding job of real size becomes a bulk order quickly.
The formula
The area is multiplied by the depth converted from inches to feet, giving cubic feet, which is also reported in cubic yards since that is how bulk sand is sold. The weight multiplies the volume by the density. A typical dry sand is around 100 pounds per cubic foot, though damp sand is heavier.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Bedding sand | The screeded layer pavers sit on, usually about one inch. |
| Joint sand | Swept into the gaps after laying, a separate and smaller quantity. |
| Sharp sand | Angular washed sand used for bedding. Builder sand is too fine and holds water. |
| Density | Around 100 lb/ft³ dry. Damp sand weighs more, which matters for delivery. |
The inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Area to cover (sq ft) | Area to cover in square feet. |
| Sand depth (in) | Sand depth in inches. One inch is standard for bedding; more allows uneven settlement. |
| Sand density (typical sand ≈ 100 lb/cu ft) (lb/cu ft) | Sand density in pounds per cubic foot. 100 is typical for dry sand. |
When to use it
Ordering bedding sand
Sand is sold by the cubic yard or the ton, and both figures are reported.
Checking delivery access
The weight determines whether the load can be dropped where you need it.
Comparing bag against bulk
The weight makes clear how quickly bagged sand becomes impractical.
Worked examples
Every figure in the tables below is produced by this page’s own calculator at build time, so the numbers and the tool always agree. Select any row to load that scenario.
How much sand for each depth?
The same area at a range of sand depths.
| Sand depth | Sand volume needed | Sand volume, cubic yards | Sand weight, tons |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.5 in | 8.33 cu ft | 0.309 cu yd | 0.417 tons |
| 1 in | 16.67 cu ft | 0.617 cu yd | 0.833 tons |
| 1.5 in | 25.00 cu ft | 0.926 cu yd | 1.250 tons |
| 2 in | 33.33 cu ft | 1.235 cu yd | 1.667 tons |
Questions
How deep should bedding sand be?
About one inch, screeded level. Thicker is a common mistake: a deep sand bed compresses unevenly under traffic and pavers sink in ruts. The load-carrying comes from the compacted sub-base beneath, and the sand only provides a levelling layer.
What type of sand should I use?
Sharp, washed, angular concrete sand. Fine builder sand or beach sand holds water, does not drain, and compacts poorly. The angularity is what lets the bed lock up under compaction rather than continuing to shift.
Is this the same as joint sand?
No. This is the bedding layer beneath the pavers. Joint sand is swept into the gaps afterwards and is a much smaller quantity, often kiln-dried or polymeric. The two are different products and are ordered separately.
How much does sand weigh?
Around 100 pounds per cubic foot dry, or about 2,700 pounds per cubic yard. Damp sand is heavier, sometimes 110 to 120 pounds per cubic foot, which matters when checking whether a delivery vehicle or a barrow run can handle the load.
For the pavers themselves, see the paver calculator. For bulk garden materials, see the mulch calculator.