Sand Calculator
Calculate cubic yards and tons of sand from length, width, and depth
This turns a length, width, and depth into cubic yards and tons of sand. The preset weight is 1.35 tons per cubic yard, a typical loose bulk figure. Use the supplier’s number when you have it. For crushed stone, use the gravel calculator. For a slab, use the concrete calculator.
Calculator Inputs
Feet or meters
Feet or meters
Inches or centimeters
Results
Enter values above to see your results
How to use this calculator
- Choose feet and inches, or meters and centimeters.
- Enter length, width, and depth.
- Keep the typical sand weight, or type a tons-per-yard figure from the supplier.
How the calculation works
Cubic feet are length × width × (depth in inches ÷ 12). Cubic yards are cubic feet ÷ 27. Tons are cubic yards × the density.
1.35 tons per cubic yard is about 2,700 pounds. Wet sand weighs more. The number on the delivery ticket is the one to order against.
A 2-inch layer
Twelve feet by ten feet at 2 inches is 20 cubic feet, which is 20 ÷ 27 cubic yards. At 1.35 tons per yard that is exactly 1.00 ton.
Worked example
12 ft × 10 ft at 2 inches, typical sand
12 × 10 × (2 ÷ 12)= 20 cubic feet20 ÷ 27= 0.74 cubic yards(20 ÷ 27) × 1.35= 1.00 tonTips & Best Practices
- •Depth is inches when you are using feet, and centimeters when you are using meters.
- •Compacted sand fills less of the hole than the loose volume you order.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tons of sand are in a cubic yard?
A typical loose figure is 1.35 tons, about 2,700 pounds. Wet sand and the quarry’s own grade can differ, so replace 1.35 when the supplier publishes a weight.
How do I calculate cubic yards of sand?
Multiply length and width in feet by depth in feet, then divide by 27. Depth in inches is divided by 12 first.
Should I order extra?
The result is the geometric volume. Ordering a little extra covers an uneven base. The calculator does not add that extra for you.
Guides & Articles
Concrete Pouring Mistakes: Cold Joints, Water, and Bag Mix
After the volume estimate: cold joints, extra water, temperature, and when a bag mix should be a ready-mix truck.
Home Renovation Estimating: Paint, Tile, and Wallpaper Math
Renovations always go over budget. Why? Poor estimating. Learn how to calculate material needs including waste factors and pattern repeats.
Stop Buying Too Much Concrete: A Guide to Estimating
Learn how to calculate exactly how much concrete you need for your patio or driveway without wasting money on leftovers or coming up short.