Sand Quantities: How Much Sand a Bed or Base Needs
Sand fills gaps, levels bases, and mixes into mortar, but the order still starts with area times depth. This post shows the volume and weight steps.
What is the Sand Calculator?
Enter area and depth, and the tool gives the volume in cubic metres plus an approximate weight using 1.6 tonnes per cubic metre, with a 10 percent allowance shown separately. The same volume-to-weight step as gravel applies, since both are loose aggregates.
How to use it
- Measure the area in square metres.
- Enter the depth in centimetres.
- Click Calculate Sand.
Worked example
8 sq m at 5 cm deep needs 0.4 cubic metres, or 0.44 with waste, weighing about 0.7 tonnes.
Does wet sand weigh more?
Yes, wet sand is heavier per cubic metre, so treat the weight as approximate and the volume as the ordering figure.
Frequently asked questions
What sand for paving joints?
Sharp sand or kiln-dried jointing sand, depending on the joint and the paver type.
Is the allowance needed for sand?
Yes, levelling and spillage consume a little on every job.