Sand Calculator
Calculate the volume and weight of sand you need, based on area and layer depth — for example for a sandbox, under pavers, or drainage.
How to use the calculator
- Measure the length and width of the area to be filled with sand.
- Enter the desired layer depth — 5 cm is common under pavers, a sandbox may need 20–30 cm.
- The calculator works out volume, weight, and approximate number of 25 kg bags.
How is it calculated?
Actual density varies somewhat with sand type and moisture — wet sand weighs more than dry. This figure is meant as a practical average estimate for planning, not a precise delivery specification.
Frequently asked questions
How much sand does a sandbox need?
A common recommendation is 20–30 cm of depth for good play comfort — adjust the layer depth in the calculator to see what that means for your sandbox's dimensions.
Should I buy a bit extra?
Yes, sand compacts somewhat during handling and transport — it's wise to add a 5–10% extra margin.
What's the difference between sand and gravel?
Sand has a finer grain size than gravel and is typically used for leveling (fine-tuning a base), joint sand between pavers, and sandboxes. Gravel has coarser grains and is often used as a base layer. See also our gravel calculator.