Measure the whole footprint
Use the finished paver area. If the base extends beyond the paver edge, calculate that wider base separately in the main calculator.
Bedding layer estimate
Paver Sand Calculator
Convert a patio or walkway footprint into bedding sand by cubic yard, ton and bag. Keep this layer separate from the thicker aggregate base below it.
Bedding order
192 sq ft project
Order volume0.62 yd³
Approx. weight0.84 tons
Bag equivalent34 bags
Material costAdd a price
Confirm bedding thickness, product type, density and bag yield with your paver system or supplier. Bedding sand and joint sand are different tasks.
Know the layer
Bedding sand is not the base.
The bedding course is the thin, carefully prepared layer directly below the pavers. The aggregate base below it carries a different structural job and usually represents most of the bulk material.
Use the specified depth
QUIKRETE describes a 1–2 inch paver sand layer for its patio system, while CMHA specifications may set other project requirements. Follow the selected system.
Match the buying unit
Bulk yards, tons and bags are conversions of the same volume. Replace the planning density and package volume with the supplier’s numbers.
Bedding sand versus joint sand
Bedding sand levels pavers from below. Joint sand fills the spaces between installed pavers. Do not substitute one product merely because both contain the word “sand.”
Reference: QUIKRETE Patio Paver Sands data sheet and CMHA aggregate-base guide specification.
FAQ
Sand estimate questions
How much sand do I need under pavers?
Multiply the paver area by the planned bedding depth, then add waste. Convert that volume to cubic yards, tons or bags using the supplier’s density and package volume.
Is bedding sand the same as joint sand?
No. Bedding sand forms the thin leveling course below the pavers. Joint sand is swept into joints after placement. Confirm the correct product for each task.
Why is there no compaction allowance?
This focused calculator applies waste to the bedding layer but no separate base-compaction factor. Follow the paver system’s installation method and replace inputs when the supplier specifies otherwise.