Sand Calculator

The most important technical aspect of sand is its Gradation and Drainage. Not all sand is the same. Concrete Sand (or Sharp Sand) has larger, jagged particles that interlock, making it the perfect base for pavers and bricks because it won't "shift" under pressure. Masonry Sand is washed and screened to be very fine, making it ideal for the smooth mortar joints between bricks or for play areas like sandboxes. If you use fine masonry sand as a paver base, your patio will likely settle and become uneven within a year. Our calculator helps you get the quantity right, but choosing the right *type* of sand is what ensures your project stands the test of time.

Another vital consideration is Compaction and Bulking. Sand has a unique property where it actually "bulks" (increases in volume) when it is slightly damp, then shrinks significantly when it is fully saturated or compacted. If you are filling a sandbox, we recommend ordering 15% more than the calculated volume to account for the natural settling and the loss of material that occurs during spreading. For Polymeric Sand (the specialized sand used to "glue" paver joints together), the calculation is different—it is based on the size of the pavers and the width of the joints. Our tool provides a general volume, but always check the manufacturer's coverage rate for polymeric products. Finally, remember that sand is a "porous" material; it allows water to flow through it, which is why it is used as a filtration layer. Ensure your sub-base (the dirt underneath) is properly graded to move that water away from your house foundation.