Sand Calculator
Use this sand calculator to estimate the volume and approximate weight of sand needed for a rectangular area, circular area, or known total area. Enter the required depth, choose a sand-density estimate or enter your own, and optionally include extra material for handling or uneven surfaces.
How to use the sand calculator
- First, choose a rectangular area, circular area, or enter a known area.
- Next, enter the measurements and select the units beside each field.
- Then, enter the depth of sand you need.
- After that, choose a sand condition or enter a density supplied by your seller.
- Finally, select a bag volume and an optional extra allowance, then review the results.
Sand calculator formula
Volume = area × depth
For a rectangular area, area = length × width. For a circular area, area = π × (diameter ÷ 2)². The calculator converts measurements to consistent metric units before multiplying area by depth. It then converts the volume to cubic feet and cubic yards.
Estimated weight = volume × bulk density
The weight calculation uses the volume including the selected extra allowance. The calculator rounds the bag count up to a whole bag based on the selected bag volume.
Example calculation
For example, a rectangular area measuring 20 ft × 10 ft with a sand depth of 3 in has an area of 200 ft² and a volume of 50 ft³, or about 1.852 yd³, before any extra allowance. With 10% extra, the required volume is 55 ft³, or about 2.037 yd³. If using 0.75 ft³ bags, the estimate is 74 bags.
How much does sand weigh?
Sand weight depends on grain size, moisture, and how tightly it is packed. This calculator uses illustrative density presets for loose dry, damp, wet, and compacted sand. These presets are not universal material specifications. Therefore, if you are buying sand by weight, use the density provided by your supplier whenever possible.
Important notes
- The volume result uses the measurements you enter and assumes a uniform depth.
- Weight is an estimate, not a guaranteed delivery weight. Moisture and compaction can change bulk density substantially.
- The bag count assumes each bag contains the selected volume. However, if your supplier sells the bag by weight, check the manufacturer’s stated coverage or volume instead.
- The calculator adds the extra allowance to volume before calculating estimated weight and bag count.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate how much sand I need?
Multiply the area to be filled by the required depth, after converting both to compatible units. The result is the volume of sand required before any extra allowance.
How many cubic feet are in a cubic yard?
One cubic yard equals exactly 27 cubic feet.
Is wet sand heavier than dry sand?
Usually, yes. Water adds mass, and moisture can also change how sand packs. Use a supplier-provided density for a more reliable weight estimate.
Can I use a custom sand density?
Yes. Choose the custom-density option and enter the density and its unit. Use a value that applies to the type and condition of sand you are ordering.
Does the calculator include extra sand?
Yes. Choose an extra allowance of 0%, 5%, 10%, or 15%. The selected percentage is added to the calculated volume before weight and bag counts are estimated.