How to use it
- Enter the area.
- Enter the depth — 1 in for paver bedding, 6–12 in for a sandbox.
- Keep extra for compaction.
The formula
Cubic yards = area × depth ÷ 27
Tons ≈ cubic yards × 1.35 (dry sand)
Worked example
| Length | 20 ft |
| Width | 10 ft |
| Depth | 2 in |
| State (for price) | U.S. average |
| Extra for settling / compaction | 5 % |
Result
| Cubic yards | 1.3 yd³ |
| Tons | 1.75 short tons |
| Cubic feet | 35 ft³ |
| Cubic meters | 0.99 m³ |
| Area covered | 200 ft² |
| Estimated material cost | $18–$88 |
Tips before you order
- Use coarse concrete sand for paver bedding, not fine play sand.
- Wet sand weighs noticeably more than dry sand — the ton figure will vary.
Questions
How much sand for a sandbox?
A 6 × 6 ft sandbox filled 12 in deep needs 1.33 yd³ of sand.