From dimensions to tons
Multiply length by width by depth in feet to get cubic feet, divide by 27 for cubic yards, then multiply by about 1.35 to get short tons of dry sand. Depths are usually inches, so a 2-inch layer is 2÷12 = 0.167 ft.
Coverage per ton at common depths
A ton of dry sand is about 0.74 cubic yards, or 20 cubic feet, so the area it covers depends entirely on how deep you spread it.
| Depth | Area per ton | Sand per 100 sq ft |
|---|---|---|
| 1 inch | ~240 sq ft | ~0.42 ton (~17 bags) |
| 2 inches | ~120 sq ft | ~0.83 ton (~33 bags) |
| 3 inches | ~80 sq ft | ~1.25 tons (~50 bags) |
| 6 inches | ~40 sq ft | ~2.5 tons (~100 bags) |
Bags are 50 lb; 40 make a ton. A paver base of 1 inch covers roughly 240 sq ft per ton, so a 10 × 12 ft patio needs a little over half a ton before the 10% margin.
Match the sand to the job
- All-purpose / concrete sand — coarse grains, ~100–105 lb/ft³. The default for base layers, backfill and concrete mixes.
- Mason sand — finer and cleaner, ~100–110 lb/ft³. For mortar joints and paver joint filling; costs more but looks neater.
- Paver sand — medium grain for a 1–2 inch bedding layer under pavers, compacted so they do not settle.
- Play sand — ultra-fine, rounded, certified safe for children. Do not use it as a base; it is too fine and compacts unevenly.
Common questions
How much does a cubic yard of sand weigh?
Dry sand runs about 2,700 lb per cubic yard, which is roughly 1.35 short tons. Damp sand is heavier, closer to 2,900 to 3,200 lb per cubic yard, because the water fills the gaps between grains.
How many 50 lb bags are in a ton of sand?
Forty bags. A short ton is 2,000 lb, and 2,000 divided by 50 is 40. For projects over about 2 cubic yards, buying in bulk by the yard is usually cheaper than bagged sand.
Should I order extra?
Yes. Sand loses 15 to 25 percent of its loose volume once it is compacted, and ground is rarely perfectly level. Adding 10 to 15 percent to your estimate covers settling and uneven sub-base.
