Paver Sand Calculator
Calculate the amount of paver base and sand needed for your hardscape project, ensuring a stable and long-lasting installation.
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How to Calculate Sand for Your Paver Project
A successful and long-lasting paver patio, walkway, or driveway depends on a solid foundation. This foundation consists of two critical layers of sand: a base layer for leveling and support, and a jointing layer to lock the pavers in place. Our Paver Sand Calculator helps you estimate the amount of sand needed for both of these essential steps.
The Two Types of Sand in a Paver Project
- Base Sand (or Leveling Sand): This is a layer of coarse sand, typically about 1 inch deep, that is spread over the compacted gravel base. Its purpose is to provide a smooth, level surface on which to set the pavers.
- Jointing Sand (or Polymeric Sand): This is a fine sand, often with additives, that is swept into the joints between the pavers. When activated with water, it hardens to lock the pavers together, prevent weed growth, and resist erosion.
Practical Example
Let's plan for a 10 ft by 20 ft patio:
- Project Area:
10 ft × 20 ft = 200 sq ft - Base Sand Depth: 1 inch (or 1/12 feet)
Calculations:
- Base Sand Volume:
200 sq ft × (1/12 ft) = 16.67 cubic feet - Jointing Sand Estimate:
200 sq ft × 0.8 lbs/sq ft = 160 lbs. This would require about three 50 lb bags.
You would need approximately 17 cubic feet of base sand and 3-4 bags of polymeric jointing sand for this project.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What kind of sand should I use for the base?
- You should use a coarse, angular sand, often called "concrete sand" or "bedding sand." Do not use fine sand or "play sand," as it does not compact well and can wash away easily.
- What is polymeric sand?
- Polymeric sand is a fine sand mixed with polymers that, when activated by water, bind together and harden. It's superior to regular joint sand because it resists weed growth, ant infestations, and erosion from rain and wind.
- What is the paver base underneath the sand?
- Before you even add the 1-inch sand layer, you must have a compacted base of crushed stone aggregate. This is the true foundation of your patio. For a standard patio, this base should be 4-6 inches deep. For a driveway, it should be 10-12 inches deep.
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