Cubic Feet: The raw volume of sand needed, calculated from the area's length, width, and depth. Useful when buying sand sold by the cubic foot.
Cubic Yards: The same volume converted to cubic yards (1 cu yd = 27 cu ft). Most bulk suppliers and delivery trucks measure sand in cubic yards.
Tons: An approximate weight based on 1.3 tons per cubic yard, which is typical for dry, loose sand. Wet or compacted sand can weigh noticeably more.
Bags (50 lb): The number of standard 50-pound bags you would need if buying bagged sand from a home-improvement store. Rounded up so you don't come up short.
How This Calculator Works
You enter the area's length and width in feet and the desired sand depth in inches. The tool converts the depth to feet, multiplies length × width × depth to get cubic feet, then divides by 27 for cubic yards. It estimates weight at 1.3 tons per cubic yard (a common average for dry sand) and bag count at roughly 27 fifty-pound bags per cubic yard. Real density varies by sand type and moisture content.
Quick Questions
Should I order extra sand beyond the calculator's estimate?
Yes. Most contractors recommend adding 5–10% to account for compaction, spillage, and uneven ground. If you're filling a deep area or working with loose soil, lean toward the higher end.
How much does sand really weigh per cubic yard?
Dry, loose sand typically weighs about 2,500–2,700 lbs (1.25–1.35 tons) per cubic yard. Wet sand can weigh 3,000 lbs or more. This calculator uses 1.3 tons as a middle estimate for dry sand.
What type of sand should I use for a paver base?
Coarse, angular sand (often called concrete sand or C-33) is standard for paver bases because it compacts well. Fine play sand is better for sandboxes and leveling thin layers. Check your project specifications.
Can I use this for other granular materials like gravel or topsoil?
The volume calculation (cubic feet and cubic yards) works for any material filling a rectangular area. However, the weight conversion uses sand-specific density (1.3 tons/cu yd). Use the gravel or soil calculators for those materials.
Sources
Wikipedia — Sand (density ranges, types, and common applications)