Sand density and weight guide (yards, tons, and compaction)
Why sand density varies, how to convert volume to weight, and what to confirm with your supplier.
Why density varies
Sand density changes by moisture and sand type (masonry, concrete, play sand), and compaction. That is why one generic conversion can be wrong for your supplier.
Two piles that look similar can weigh very differently if one is wetter or more compacted. Delivered sand is loose; after placement and compaction, the installed volume usually shrinks.
Typical planning ranges (loose)
| Material (typical) | Approx. lb per cubic yard | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dry sand | 2400-2800 | Varies by moisture and gradation |
| Damp sand | 2700-3200 | Heavier due to moisture |
Metric quick reference (loose)
| Material (typical) | Approx. kg per m^3 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dry sand | 1450-1700 | Wide range by gradation and moisture |
| Damp sand | 1600-1900 | Moisture adds weight quickly |
Best practice
- Use the supplier conversion for the exact sand you are buying.
- If you are bedding pavers, confirm bedding sand type and typical compacted thickness.
- Order a small buffer for grading and cleanup, and round to delivery minimums.
- Confirm whether the supplier uses short tons (US) or metric tonnes for weight pricing.
How to convert yards to tons (quick method)
To estimate weight from volume: weight (lb) = volume (cubic yards) × density (lb per cubic yard). Then tons (US short tons) = lb / 2000.
Example: 3 cubic yards of damp sand at 3000 lb/yd³ is about 3 × 3000 = 9000 lb, or 4.5 tons.
- If your supplier sells by the ton, ask them what density they use for their specific product.
- If your supplier sells by the yard, use tons only as a delivery/truckload sanity check.
Sand types (what you’re usually buying)
| Type (common label) | Typical use | Notes to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| Masonry sand | Mortar, bedding, general use | Grading and fines vary by supplier |
| Concrete sand | Concrete mixes and base layers | Often coarser than masonry sand |
| Play sand | Sandboxes | Usually washed; not a base material |
| Polymeric/joint sand | Paver joints | Follow manufacturer instructions |
Compaction and thickness (why your estimate can be off)
If you’re building a base, the delivered sand is loose, but your finished layer is compacted and graded. Your “installed” volume is often less than the delivery volume, and the difference depends on moisture and compaction effort.
- Measure thickness after compaction (project dependent) instead of assuming the loose depth equals the finished depth.
- Very wet sand can be heavier, harder to screed, and can change compaction behavior.
Common mistakes
- Using a single conversion for all suppliers and sand products.
- Confusing bedding sand with base material (they have different roles).
- Ignoring delivery minimums and ending up forced to over-order.
Supplier questions (fast way to avoid bad estimates)
- What is the exact sand product name/gradation (masonry, concrete, washed, etc.)?
- Do you sell by the yard, ton, or bag, and what unit is a “ton” in your region?
- What conversion/density do you use for this exact product (especially if it’s damp)?
- Is the sand intended for my use (bedding sand vs joint sand vs mortar sand)?