Paver Sand Calculator
Estimate paver sand for your project with our free calculator. Get accurate material quantities, costs, and specifications.
Formula
Bedding Sand (cu yd) = Area x (Depth / 12) / 27; Joint Sand = Area x 1.5 lbs/sq ft
Bedding sand volume is the paver area multiplied by the depth (standard 1 inch) converted to feet, then divided by 27 for cubic yards. Multiply by 1.35 tons per cubic yard for weight. Joint sand is estimated at 1.5 pounds per square foot for standard-sized pavers. Actual joint sand varies based on paver dimensions and joint width.
Worked Examples
Example 1: Patio Bedding Sand
Problem: Calculate concrete sand for bedding a 20 ft x 15 ft patio at 1-inch depth.
Solution: Area = 20 x 15 = 300 sq ft\nVolume = 300 x (1/12) = 25 cu ft\nCubic yards = 25 / 27 = 0.93 cu yd\nTons = 0.93 x 1.35 = 1.25 tons
Result: 0.93 cu yd, 1.25 tons of concrete sand
Example 2: Complete Sand Package (Bedding + Joints)
Problem: Calculate total sand for a 200 sq ft walkway including bedding and polymeric joint sand.
Solution: Bedding: 200 x (1/12) / 27 = 0.62 cu yd = 0.83 tons\nJoint sand: 200 x 1.5 = 300 lbs = 6 bags (50 lb)\nTotal bedding cost = 0.83 x $35 = $29.05\nJoint sand cost = 6 x $25 = $150.00
Result: 0.62 cu yd bedding + 6 bags polymeric joint sand
Frequently Asked Questions
How much sand do I need under pavers?
The standard bedding sand layer under pavers is 1 inch thick after screeding. For every 100 square feet at 1-inch depth, you need approximately 0.31 cubic yards or 0.42 tons of sand. A 300 square foot patio requires about 0.93 cubic yards of bedding sand. Use coarse concrete sand (ASTM C33) for bedding, never fine play sand which compacts unevenly and holds moisture. The sand should be damp but not wet when you screed it to achieve a smooth, level surface.
What type of sand goes between pavers?
Polymeric sand is the best choice for filling joints between pavers. It contains a polymer binder that hardens when activated with water, creating a firm, weed-resistant, and ant-proof joint. Regular concrete sand can also be used for joints but requires more frequent replenishment and does not resist weed growth. Polymeric sand typically comes in 50-pound bags that cover 50 to 75 square feet depending on paver size and joint width. Apply it on a dry surface and activate with a gentle mist of water.
Can I use any sand for paver bedding?
No, you should use coarse concrete sand meeting ASTM C33 specifications for paver bedding. This sand has angular particles that interlock and provide a stable base. Avoid mason sand, play sand, or beach sand, as these have rounded particles that shift under load and do not compact well. Crushed stone screenings are sometimes used as an alternative and can provide even better stability. The key is uniform particle size between 1/16 and 1/4 inch with minimal fine dust content.
How do I screed sand for pavers?
To screed sand for pavers, first set two 1-inch diameter pipes or metal conduit rails on top of the compacted gravel base, spaced about 6 feet apart. Pour sand between and around the rails, then drag a straight 2x4 or aluminum screed board across the tops of the rails to create a perfectly level 1-inch sand layer. Remove the rails and carefully fill the channels with sand. Work in manageable 4 to 6 foot sections, and do not walk on or disturb the screeded sand before laying pavers.
Is my data stored or sent to a server?
No. All calculations run entirely in your browser using JavaScript. No data you enter is ever transmitted to any server or stored anywhere. Your inputs remain completely private.
Can I use the results for professional or academic purposes?
You may use the results for reference and educational purposes. For professional reports, academic papers, or critical decisions, we recommend verifying outputs against peer-reviewed sources or consulting a qualified expert in the relevant field.