Masonry Sand Calculator
Calculate tons of fine masonry sand for mortar mixing or a pool-liner base, using its 1.35 tons per cubic yard density, plus total cost.
How this calculator works
Masonry sand is a fine, washed sand sold for mortar mixing and smooth bedding layers like pool liner bases. This calculator converts your length, width, and depth into cubic yards, then multiplies by masonry sand’s density of 1.35 tons per cubic yard to get the tons you need to order.
Formula: Cubic yards = (Length ft × Width ft × Depth ft) ÷ 27. Tons = Cubic yards × 1.35.
Worked example
A 10 ft × 10 ft base area at a 3-inch depth:
- Depth in feet: 3 ÷ 12 = 0.25 ft
- Cubic yards: (10 × 10 × 0.25) ÷ 27 ≈ 0.9259 yd³
- Tons: 0.9259 × 1.35 ≈ 1.25 tons
- At $40/ton, that’s $50.00.
Cost reference
| Area | Tons needed (3 in) |
|---|---|
| 5 × 5 ft | 0.31 tons |
| 10 × 10 ft | 1.25 tons |
| 20 × 20 ft | 5.00 tons |
How to measure your area
Measure the length and width of the surface you’re bedding — a pool floor, a mortar mixing job’s footprint, or a paver joint-fill area — and use the compacted depth you’re targeting rather than a loose estimate, since masonry sand settles once tamped or wetted. For mortar work, estimate by the bag rather than the yard unless you’re mixing large batches for a full wall or patio.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between masonry sand and regular sand?
Masonry sand is washed and screened to a finer, more uniform grain than construction or fill sand, with pebbles and coarse particles removed. That consistency is what makes it workable in a trowel and produces a smooth mortar joint or bedding surface instead of a gritty one.
Why is masonry sand used under pool liners instead of regular sand or gravel?
Vinyl pool liners are thin and easily punctured, so the bedding underneath needs to be free of sharp edges and coarse grit. Masonry sand's fine, rounded-feeling grains give a smooth cushion that won't work a hole through the liner over years of water pressure and foot traffic.
What mortar mix ratio uses masonry sand?
A standard Type N or Type S mortar mix is roughly 1 part portland cement to 3 parts masonry sand, with lime added for workability on Type S. Always follow the ratio on your specific cement or premix bag, since ratios shift by mortar type and intended load.
How deep should the sand bed be under a pool liner?
Most pool installers use a 2-3 inch compacted sand base over the excavated floor, which this calculator's 3-inch default reflects. Check your specific pool manufacturer's installation guide, since above-ground and in-ground liners sometimes call for different depths.
Why isn't a waste toggle included on this calculator?
Masonry sand for mortar and liner beds is typically bought a little heavy anyway, since running short mid-mix or mid-install is a bigger headache than a partial leftover bag. Rather than pad the number with a fixed percentage, this calculator gives you the straight volume so you can round up by eye for your project.
Estimates only. Verify quantities with your supplier before purchasing.