Paver Sand Calculator
Paver projects need two types of sand: bedding sand underneath and joint sand swept between the pavers. Getting both quantities right means your pavers sit level and stay locked in place. Enter your patio or walkway dimensions to calculate exactly how much of each you need.
Two Types of Paver Sand
Bedding Sand
This goes under your pavers on top of the compacted gravel base. It creates a smooth, level surface for the pavers to sit on. Use coarse, angular concrete sand -- not play sand or mason sand.
Standard depth: 1 inch after compaction. Lay about 1.25 inches of loose sand so it compacts to 1 inch when you screed and set the pavers.
Joint Sand (Polymeric or Regular)
This gets swept into the cracks between pavers after they are laid. It locks the pavers together and keeps weeds out.
- Regular sand joints: Cheaper, but needs periodic refilling
- Polymeric sand: Hardens when wet, resists weeds and erosion, costs more
How Much Sand Per Square Foot?
For 1 inch of bedding sand, you need about 0.083 ft³ per square foot, which works out to roughly 100 lbs per 12 square feet. Joint sand adds another 5-10% depending on the gap width and paver thickness.