Practical project guide
How to Calculate Sand
Learn how to estimate sand volume from area and depth.
Use area × depth
For a rectangular area, multiply length by width. Convert the depth to metres, then multiply area by depth to get cubic metres.
Example
A 6 m × 4 m area is 24 m². At 5 cm depth, the depth is 0.05 m, so the volume is 1.2 m³. A 10% allowance would make the planning quantity about 1.32 m³.
Why actual quantities vary
Sand can settle, compact and contain moisture. Low spots can also increase the quantity required. Ask the supplier how their material is sold and whether the quoted quantity is based on loose or compacted volume.