Sand quantity starts with area × compacted depth. Keep bedding sand, aggregate base, and jointing sand as separate materials because they perform different functions and may have different specifications.
Paver sand volume = paved area × specified compacted depth. Convert inches to feet before multiplying, divide cubic feet by 27 for cubic yards, and keep bedding, aggregate base, and joint sand as separate order lines.
Published: September 28, 2026
Last reviewed: September 28, 2026
Published by BuildYard. The guide reflects BuildYard's calculation methodology and editorial standards and does not replace project-specific professional advice.
Split irregular paving into measurable zones and total net square footage.
Include edge and border geometry where it receives the same sand layer.
Volume = area × depth after converting depth to feet.
A 1 in layer equals 1/12 ft for volume math.
Convert cubic feet to cubic yards by dividing by 27, or use verified bag coverage/yield.
Bulk density and bag yield must come from the actual supplier/product.
Do not combine bedding sand, compacted aggregate base, and jointing sand into one volume.
Follow the selected paver system's installation requirements.
Sand Calculator estimates sand cubic yards, tons, bags, and cost for general construction, landscaping, fill, and bedding areas.
Open calculator →PavingAsphalt Calculator estimates hot-mix asphalt tonnage for driveways, lanes, parking areas, and compacted paving lifts.
Open calculator →Estimate paver jointing sand from paved area, joint width and depth, paver geometry, product coverage, and whole-bag rounding.
Read guide →SandEstimate play sand from sandbox area, fill depth, and verified bag size, with a clear allowance for settlement and future top-up.
Read guide →SandEstimate masonry sand by volume, supplier weight, or bag count while keeping mortar proportion, moisture, bulking, and package size explicit.
Read guide →Geometry example only; the selected paver system controls material type and installed depth.
| Step | Calculation | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Depth | 1÷12 | 0.0833 ft |
| Volume | 400×0.0833 | 33.3 cu ft |
| Cubic yards | 33.3÷27 | 1.23 yd³ |
| Order | Add verified allowance | Project-specific |
Current manufacturer data, supplier specifications, drawings, field measurements, applicable codes, permit requirements, and qualified professional guidance can take priority over a general-purpose planning estimate.