Using a sand estimator helps you calculate the exact amount needed based on your project's square footage and the depth of sand required.
Sand costs $15 to $40 per cubic yard, so getting your measurements right saves you from ordering too much or running short during your project.
Most hardscape projects need a 1-inch layer of sand, and you calculate the amount by multiplying length, width, and depth, then dividing by 27.
Hiring a local landscaping professional takes the guesswork out of measuring and ensures your sand base is level and properly installed for your patio or pool.
Sand isn’t just for playgrounds—it’s also perfect for all kinds of hardscape projects. Whether you’re laying a paver patio, driveway, or walkway or installing an above-ground pool, this sand calculator helps you know how much sand you need for your project.
Using your project’s square footage and assuming a sand depth of one inch, you can reference the following table to estimate how much sand you’ll need, plus the average cost.
| Square Footage | Sand Needed in Cubic Yards | Average Cost for Sand |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 0.031 | $0.50-$1.25 |
| 50 | 0.16 | $2.50-$6.50 |
| 100 | 0.31 | $4.75-$12.50 |
| 150 | 0.47 | $7-$19 |
| 200 | 0.62 | $9.25-$25 |
| 250 | 0.78 | $11.75-$31 |
| 300 | 0.93 | $14-$37 |
| 350 | 1.09 | $16.50-$44 |
| 400 | 1.24 | $18.50-$50 |
Using the dimensions of the area you want to cover, apply the following formulas to determine how much sand you need.
For rectangular or square-shaped spaces:
Sand Needed (in cubic yards) = [Length x Width x (Depth in inches / 12)] / 27
For round spaces:
Sand Needed (in cubic yards) = Radius squared x 3.14 x 0.167 x 0.037
Measuring the area of the space you plan to lay sand is a relatively simple formula, but it varies depending on the project.
If you’re laying pavers or installing sand under concrete for rectangular or square-shaped spaces, here are the steps for measuring the area for sand:
With your measuring tape, measure the length, width, and depth of the space.
Break down the shapes into rectangles and add the calculations for irregularly-shaped yards.
Since the depth is in inches, you’ll need to convert it to feet by dividing the number by 12. Most patios and driveways require a 1-inch layer of sand spread across the area.
Multiply the three measurements together.
Divide the number by 27 to get the cubic yards.
Be sure to round to the next highest number when calculating to avoid having too little sand. To be on the safe side and account for spills, consider multiplying your total by 5%.
If you’re installing a circular, above-ground pool and need to lay a base of sand, your measurements will differ and be more challenging. Follow these steps to adjust accordingly:
Use your measuring tape to measure the diameter of the pool.
Divide the diameter by 2 to get the radius.
Calculate the depth of the sand you’ll need. If you’re laying a sand base for a pool, most sand bases require a 2- to 3-inch layer of sand.
Convert the depth to feet by dividing the depth by 12. A depth of 2 inches would be 0.167 feet, for example.
Multiply π (3.14) times the pool’s radius squared times the depth in feet. This gives you the area in square feet.
Multiply that number by 0.037 to get the area of the foundation in cubic yards.
Round to the next highest number when calculating to avoid having too little sand. And consider multiplying your total by 5% to account for spills.
If calculating how much sand you need, rolling up your sleeves, and manually installing sand isn’t on your to-do list, knowing who to hire to lay sand in your yard can make this a quick project. Typically, a landscaping company near you is your best option for a professional sand installation.
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