How much sand do I need?
Same method as gravel, with a slightly different density.
Volume is area times depth, and weight is volume times 2,400-2,700 lb per cubic yard when dry and loose. A 2 in bed over 108 sq ft is 0.67 cubic yards, about 1,700 lb.
Sand per square foot
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| Depth | cu ft per sq ft | lb per sq ft | 50 lb bags per 100 sq ft |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 in | 0.083 | 7.8 | 16 |
| 2 in | 0.167 | 15.6 | 31 |
| 4 in | 0.333 | 31.2 | 62 |
| 6 in | 0.5 | 46.8 | 94 |
Density varies a lot
Dry loose sand runs 2,400-2,700 lb per cubic yard. The same sand damp or compacted can reach 3,000-3,200. If your supplier sells by the ton and you calculated in cubic yards, that difference matters: ask which density they use.
Common uses and depths
- Levelling bed under pavers: 1 to 2 in of sharp or washed sand.
- Children's sandbox: 8 to 12 in of washed, screened play sand.
- Paver joint filling: fine sand, very little volume but worth having.
- Mortar: the proportion comes from the mix design, not from the area.
Sand settles
A 2 in layer spread loose ends up 1.6-1.8 in after compaction and the first rain. If you need 2 in compacted, order 10-15 % more.
Mind the transport
A cubic yard of sand weighs well over a ton. A small trailer or a family car is not built for that: check the payload before loading by eye.
Sources and methodology
The calculation is volume times density, with density editable because it is the most variable figure. Depths reflect common uses; for trafficked paving, follow the paver manufacturer's guidance.
Frequently asked questions
How much sand do I need per square foot?
At 2 in deep, 0.167 cubic feet per square foot, about 15.6 lb, so roughly one 50 lb bag covers 3 square feet.
How much does a cubic yard of sand weigh?
2,400 to 2,700 lb dry and loose, up to 3,200 lb damp or compacted.
How many bags of sand in a cubic yard?
About 51 bags of 50 lb at 2,550 lb per yard. Above half a yard, bulk delivery is usually better.
What sand should I use under pavers?
Washed sand with a fine, uniform grading, spread 1 to 2 in deep. Sand containing clay holds water and deforms.