The type of sand matters even when the volume is identical.
Geometry = area × depth · Order volume = geometry × loose-volume multiplier × (1 + waste ÷ 100)
Confirm the material and intended layer
Bedding sand, play sand and other products have different specifications. This calculator does not decide which sand is suitable. Enter the dimensions of the layer you actually plan to fill, and confirm product choice with the supplier or project specification.
Check how the supplier sells it
For volume bags, enter the printed litres or cubic feet directly. For mass bags, enter loose bulk density in compatible units first. A damp delivered load can weigh differently from a dry sample; a single generic sand density would conceal that uncertainty.
A worked sand example
A 3 m × 2 m layer at 4 cm needs 0.24 m³, or 240 litres. At 20 litres per bag and no adjustments, that is 12 bags. To convert the order to kilograms, multiply 0.24 m³ by the supplier’s loose density in kg/m³.
Treat each sand product as its own order
Give a saved estimate the product or layer label you intend to discuss with the supplier. Volume may be the same for two products while their mass, suitability and price differ. The calculator does not identify a sand grade from its colour or name.
Check whether the yield is volume or mass
A 20-litre bag can be used directly in the volume calculation. A 20-kilogram bag requires loose bulk density. Those labels are not interchangeable: litres describe occupied space and kilograms describe mass. Supplier moisture and grading assumptions should travel with the density you enter.
Inspect the unit at the price field
A per-bag quote uses the rounded whole-bag count. A price per metric tonne uses the unrounded density-based order mass. Enter delivery and other charges separately when comparing real quotations; they are not silently included in the displayed material cost.
Before you place an order
Check dimensions, bag yield and the price basis. Whole bags round up; bulk orders may have minimum quantities or delivery charges that this calculator does not include. All adjustments are your inputs. Read our method, unit definitions and limits.
Useful questions
Can I use a sand weight from another calculator?
Only if the material and condition match your order. A supplier-specific density is preferable to an unexplained universal value.
Can I calculate a circular area?
Yes. Choose circle, select diameter or radius and enter the same layer depth. The formula uses π × radius² × depth.