Sand Calculator
Work out how much sand you need. Enter the area to cover, the calculator returns cubic metres for a typical bedding depth, plus an indicative cost, handy for paving, pavers and under-slab bedding.
How we estimate this
Sand is sold by the cubic metre (or tonne). At a 50mm bedding depth, one cubic metre covers about 20 square metres, so a 30m² paving area needs roughly 1.5 cubic metres, plus a little extra for compaction and waste.
Pricing reviewed: November 2026.
Pricing reviewed November 2026. Indicative Australian costs, not a quote.
Understanding sands in Australia
Sand is sold by the cubic metre (or tonne). At a 50mm bedding depth, one cubic metre covers about 20 square metres, so a 30m² paving area needs roughly 1.5 cubic metres, plus a little extra for compaction and waste.
Use the right sand for the job, bedding/brickies sand for paving and bricklaying, washed sand for other uses. Bulk delivery is cheaper per cubic metre than bags once you need more than a barrow or two.
Frequently asked questions
How much sand do I need for paving?
At a 50mm bedding depth, one cubic metre covers about 20 square metres, so a 30m² area needs roughly 1.5 cubic metres plus a little for compaction. Enter your area for an estimate.
Is sand sold by the cubic metre or tonne?
Both, bulk sand is often sold by the tonne or cubic metre (they are similar for sand). This calculator works in cubic metres based on your area and a typical bedding depth.
Are you a landscape / building supply?
Everyone on this page is working out what sand costs because they are ready to hire. Put your business right beneath the calculator, in your state, so you are who they find. From $50/mo.