Sand Calculator
Choose the shape, enter dimensions, and get base volume, order volume with waste, and estimated sand weight.
Calculate
Calculate
Measurements convert when you switch units
Result
The formula
Rectangle: length × width × depth. Circle: π × (diameter/2)² × depth. Trench: length × trench width × trench depth. Weight = volume × sand density.
Worked example
- Bedding area 10 m × 4 m × 0.05 m → base volume 2.0 m³
- Add 10% waste → order volume 2.0 × 1.10 = 2.20 m³
- At density 1.5 t/m³ → estimated weight 2.20 × 1.5 = 3.30 t
Result: 2.20 m³ to order (about 3.30 t)
How sand quantity is calculated
The calculator computes geometric volume first, then applies waste factor and density to estimate order weight.
Use compacted target depth
For bedding and sub-base work, enter the compacted design depth. Loose sand can settle after leveling and compaction.
Waste factor depends on site conditions
Rough ground, edge trimming, and handling losses increase required quantity. Typical waste factors are 5–12%.
Density varies by moisture and grain size
Dry fine sand and wet coarse sand can differ in bulk density. Use your supplier value when available.
Interesting facts
1 m³ is about 1.308 yd³
Showing both metric and imperial units helps when suppliers quote in different systems.
Typical sand density range
Bulk density often falls around 1.4–1.7 t/m³. This calculator defaults to 1.5 t/m³ for planning.
Moisture changes delivered mass
Wet sand is heavier than dry sand for the same volume, which affects transport weight and truck loading.
Bedding layers are usually thin
Paver bedding is often around 30–50 mm; over-thick layers can reduce stability if not compacted properly.
Trench fills are rarely perfectly rectangular
Irregular trench sides and local settlement can increase real demand over theoretical volume.
Small-load delivery charges are common
Converting volume to tonnes helps compare supplier minimum loads and transport costs.
Frequently asked questions
Use rectangular mode with bedding depth (often 0.03–0.05 m), then add a waste factor for leveling and handling.
Use compacted design depth for takeoff. If you only know loose depth, adjust order volume upward.
Tonnes = order volume (m³) × density (t/m³). Example: 2.2 m³ × 1.5 = 3.3 t.
Use about 5% for simple flat jobs, and 8–12% for irregular areas or trench work.
Yes. Use circle mode and enter diameter plus depth.
Yes. Subtract occupied volume/area so the order estimate matches actual fill needs.
Compaction and moisture settlement can reduce loose layer height after placement.
Yes, but set density to match material type and moisture condition from your supplier.
References
- Aggregate and sand guidance Material use and properties for construction aggregates.
- SI units and conversions Unit conversion reference.