How to use it
- Enter the area and the sand layer depth.
- Choose the sand type, or a custom sand with your supplier's density.
- Choose bulk or bags. Many sand bags are sold by weight.
- If your sand will be compacted, enter extra in the waste allowance. The calculator doesn't add a hidden multiplier.
Formula and assumptions
- Volume = area × depth
- Volume with waste = volume × (1 + waste % ÷ 100)
- Weight = volume with waste × density
- Bags by weight = round up (weight ÷ bag weight)
Order amounts always round up, never down. Prices apply to the rounded amount, in the unit your supplier sells by. See the methodology for constants and indicative densities.
Example
A 10 ft × 12 ft patio with a 1 in bedding layer, 5% waste, in 50 lb bags:
- Before waste: 0.37 cu yd (0.28 m³)
- With waste: 0.39 cu yd (0.3 m³)
- Suggested order: 21 bags
Questions
Does the calculator account for compaction?
Not automatically. Loose sand shrinks when compacted, by an amount that depends on the sand and the method. Add the extra you expect to the waste allowance so the assumption stays visible.
How heavy is a cubic yard of sand?
Dry sand is often around 1.5 to 1.7 tonnes per cubic metre. Wet sand weighs more. The calculator uses a labelled indicative value unless you enter your supplier's.
How many 50 lb bags of sand do I need?
Enter your area and depth, choose Bags, and set the bag size to 50 lb. The calculator converts weight to volume using the density shown.