Sand Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the sand calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Volume (Cubic Feet)
cubic_feet = length * width * depth_ftVolume (Cubic Yards)
cubic_yards = length * width * depth_ft / 27Weight (Tons)
tons = length * width * depth_ft / 27 * 1.35Variables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
length | Length(feet) | 20 |
width | Width(feet) | 10 |
depth | Depth(inches) | 2 |
depth_ft | Derived value= depth / 12 | calculated |
How It Works
How to Calculate Sand Needed
Formula
Cubic Yards = (Length × Width × Depth in feet) / 27
Tons = Cubic Yards × 1.35
Sand weighs approximately 2,700 lbs (1.35 tons) per cubic yard. Weight varies with moisture content and sand type: dry sand is about 1.3 tons/cu yd, damp sand about 1.4 tons/cu yd.
Worked Example
A sandbox area 20 ft by 10 ft with 2 inches of sand.
- 01Depth in feet: 2 / 12 = 0.167 ft
- 02Volume = 20 × 10 × 0.167 = 33.33 cu ft
- 03Cubic yards = 33.33 / 27 = 1.23 cu yd
- 04Tons = 1.23 × 1.35 = 1.67 tons
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a cubic yard of sand weigh?
A cubic yard of sand weighs approximately 2,700 pounds (1.35 tons). Wet sand is heavier, up to 3,000+ pounds per cubic yard.
What type of sand should I use?
For paver bedding, use coarse concrete sand. For sandbox play, use play sand (washed and screened). For mixing concrete, use sharp sand. For leveling, use mason sand.
How deep should sand be under pavers?
Use a 1-inch layer of sand as a bedding layer under pavers, over a compacted gravel base of 4-6 inches.
Ready to run the numbers?
Open Sand Calculator