Sand Calculator
Calculate the amount of sand needed for your project based on area and depth. Get instant results and helpful insights for your construction, landscaping, or playground planning.
How to Use This Calculator
Enter Dimensions
- •Measure length and width of your project area
- •Determine required depth based on project type
- •Input all measurements in the same unit system
Select Unit System
- •Choose Imperial (feet, inches) for US projects
- •Choose Metric (meters, cm) for international projects
- •Calculator automatically converts between systems
View Results
- •See calculated area in square feet/meters
- •View volume in cubic feet/meters
- •Get sand needed in tons/tonnes
Check Bonus Insights
- •See estimated truckloads required
- •View approximate material costs
- •Download results for your records
Sand Calculator Guide
Understanding Sand Measurements
Sand is typically measured by weight (tons or tonnes) or volume (cubic yards or cubic meters). This calculator converts your project dimensions into both volume and weight of sand needed.
Key Factors:
- ⚖️Density
Dry sand typically weighs about 100 pounds per cubic foot (1,600 kg/m³).
- 💧Moisture Content
Wet sand is heavier than dry sand, which can affect weight calculations.
- 📏Depth
Proper depth is crucial for different applications (paver base, playground, etc.).
- 🚚Compaction
Sand will compact over time, so consider adding extra material.
Recommended Sand Depths
| Application | Recommended Depth | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Paver Base | 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) | Use coarse sand mixed with gravel |
| Paver Joints | 1/4-1/2 inch (0.6-1.3 cm) | Use polymeric or fine sand |
| Playground | 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) | For safety, use play sand |
| Sandbox | 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) | Use clean, washed play sand |
| Concrete Mix | N/A | Typically 3 parts sand to 1 part cement |
Sand Types and Applications
Additional Considerations
- Waste Factor:
Consider adding 5-10% extra material to account for waste, spillage, and settling.
- Delivery Options:
Sand can be delivered in bulk (loose) or in bags (typically 50 lbs or 0.5 cubic feet per bag).
- Compaction:
Sand will compact by about 20-30% over time, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Drainage:
For proper drainage, consider using a base layer of gravel beneath the sand in outdoor applications.
How Much Does 1 Ton of Sand Cover?
Frequently Asked Questions
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