Sand Cost Calculator
Budget delivered sand by the cubic yard for paver base, play areas, or fill, and compare masonry versus fill sand price ranges.
How this calculator works
This combines material cost (cubic yards of sand, from the standard volume formula, times your price per cubic yard) with labor to spread and grade it (your area times a per-square-foot rate). Both price fields are editable placeholders.
Formula: Cubic yards = (Length ft × Width ft × Depth ft) ÷ 27. Total cost = (Cubic yards × Price/yd³) + (Area sq ft × Labor rate/sq ft).
Worked example
A 10 ft × 10 ft (100 sq ft) area at 6 inches, $45/yd³ material, $1/sq ft labor:
- Depth in feet: 6 ÷ 12 = 0.5 ft
- Cubic yards: (10 × 10 × 0.5) ÷ 27 ≈ 1.8519 → 1.85 yd³
- Material cost: 1.8519 × $45 ≈ $83.33
- Labor cost: 100 × $1 = $100.00
- Total estimated cost: $183.33
Cost reference (at default rates)
| Area size | Estimated total cost |
|---|---|
| 5 ft × 5 ft | ~$46 |
| 10 ft × 10 ft | ~$183 |
| 20 ft × 20 ft | ~$733 |
How to measure your area
Measure the full length and width of the area to be filled or covered in feet, and use the finished, compacted depth you’re targeting rather than the loose depth you’ll dump and spread, since sand settles once compacted or leveled.
Frequently asked questions
Why does masonry sand cost more than fill sand?
Masonry and paver sand is washed and screened to a consistent, fine, angular grain suited for paver joints and mortar mixing, which costs more to process. Fill or utility sand, used for grading and backfill where appearance and grain uniformity don't matter, is typically cheaper — expect a noticeable price gap when comparing quotes.
What depth should I use for different sand applications?
Paver base bedding sand is usually just 1 inch. A play area or sandbox depth often runs 6-12 inches for safety cushioning. Fill sand under a slab or around a foundation is commonly 4-6 inches — this calculator defaults to 6 inches as a general middle ground; adjust to match your specific job.
What's included in this cost estimate?
Material cost (cubic yards × price per yard) plus labor to spread and grade it (area × labor rate). It doesn't include a delivery fee, which many bulk suppliers charge separately.
Is this the same math as the Sand Calculator?
The volume formula is identical, but the Sand Calculator gives you a materials quantity only. This page adds a spreading labor line, so you get a rough installed-cost budget instead of just a yardage number.
Does sand need compaction after spreading?
For structural applications like under a paver patio or slab, yes — sand is typically compacted in place to prevent settling. This calculator's labor rate covers basic spreading and grading; add compaction equipment or labor separately if your job needs it.
Estimates only. Verify quantities with your supplier before purchasing.