How to use this calculator
- Measure length × width. In feet. For a paver base, the area equals the patio area (do not subtract paver thickness).
- Pick a depth. 1 inch for paver setting bed, 2–3 inches for sandbox fill, 4–6 inches for utility trench bedding.
- Read tons and yards. Bulk delivery is priced per ton; bagged sand by the cubic foot. Compare prices both ways.
- Add a 10% waste buffer. Sand spills through gloves, settles, and washes away during install — order 10% extra.
Formula
Cubic yards = (Length × Width × Depth in feet) ÷ 27
Worked example
A 10×15 ft paver patio with a 1-inch sand setting bed needs 12.5 ft³ ÷ 27 = 0.46 yd³ = 0.65 tons. About 26 bags of 50 lb sand. Bagged is fine here — bulk delivery would not be worth the trip charge.
Tips for accurate results
- Use coarse sand for paver bases — fine play sand washes out from under pavers in heavy rain.
- For sandboxes, ASTM-tested play sand is silica-free and washed; do not substitute construction sand.
- Compact the sand under pavers with a plate compactor before laying, then sweep more sand into the joints.
- Polymeric sand for paver joints is sold separately (different product, different calculator).