Sand Calculator
Estimate sand for a sandbox or uniform layer. Enter bag volume from your package, compare metric and imperial results, and estimate material cost. Switching units reinterprets the numbers; enter measurements in the selected units.
How much sand do I need?
Measure the inside of a sandbox or the surface to cover. For rectangles, multiply length by width. For circular sandboxes, use π × radius². Multiply that area by the intended sand depth. Use the same length unit throughout before converting cubic feet to cubic yards or cubic metres.
This calculator shows both the base volume and your ordering allowance. It calculates whole bags using the volume printed on your chosen product, avoiding the assumption that every 50 lb bag has the same yield. Optional weight estimates use the editable bulk density; 1,600 kg/m³ is an example, not a universal sand density.
Worked example: 6 × 6 foot sandbox
At 4 inches deep, a 6 × 6 foot box holds 12 cubic feet, or about 0.444 cubic yards. At 0.5 cubic foot per bag and zero allowance, buy 24 bags. If each bag costs 5 in your currency, the estimated bag cost is 120.
How many bags of play sand?
Divide the required volume by the bag yield and round up. QUIKRETE's play-sand guide gives an approximate half-cubic-foot yield for its listed bags. Other products can differ, so enter the yield on your own package. Wetness, settling and uneven ground may affect the quantity you need.
Can I use this for paver bedding sand?
Yes, to estimate the volume of a uniform layer at a depth you specify. This does not choose an appropriate installation depth or estimate jointing/polymeric sand. Jointing products need manufacturer coverage based on joint width, depth and paver size. Keep bedding sand and jointing sand separate in your order.
What is the difference between tons and tonnes?
A metric tonne is 1,000 kg; a US short ton is 2,000 lb. Weight is calculated from volume and your supplier's bulk density. Bag quantities here are based on bag volume, not weight. Delivery, tax and installation costs are excluded.
Reference: QUIKRETE play sand coverage guide.
Planning a paved patio? Use the Paver Calculator for pieces, base and bedding volumes.
Related: Gravel & River Rock Calculator · Concrete Calculator
Reviewed 4 November 2026. Free, no signup. Calculations run locally in your browser. Results are estimates; confirm product specifications before ordering.