Quick Answer
- Bedding sand depth: 1 inch (do not exceed 1.5 inches)
- Gravel base depth: 4–6 inches (required under the sand)
- Formula: Area sq ft × 1" ÷ 324 = cubic yards of sand
- 200 sq ft patio: 200 × 1 ÷ 324 = 0.62 yd³ of bedding sand
Paver Installation Cross-Section
Sand Needed by Patio Size (at 1 inch depth)
| Patio / Area Size | Square Feet | Bedding Sand (yd3) | Approx Bags (50 lb) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small patio (10×10) | 100 | 0.31 | 6 bags |
| Standard patio (12×16) | 192 | 0.59 | 11 bags |
| Large patio (20×20) | 400 | 1.23 | 23 bags |
| Walkway (3×30) | 90 | 0.28 | 5 bags |
| Driveway (12×40) | 480 | 1.48 | 28 bags |
Sand Type: Polymeric vs Coarse vs Regular
| Sand Type | Used For | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coarse / concrete sand | 1" bedding layer under pavers | €“/yd3 | Best for bedding; drains well |
| Polymeric sand | Filling paver joints | €“/50 lb bag | Hardens with water; prevents weeds and ants |
| Regular mason sand | Joints only in low-traffic areas | €“/50 lb bag | Washes out; not recommended for driveways |
âš ï¸ The #1 paver installation mistake
Do NOT use more than 1–1.5 inches of bedding sand. A thick sand bed causes pavers to become unstable and shift. The gravel base provides the structural strength — the sand is only a leveling layer.
Calculate Sand for Your Paver Project
Enter patio or walkway dimensions for exact cubic yards and bag count.
Open Sand Calculator →FAQ
How deep should the sand be under pavers?
Exactly 1 inch of bedding sand is the standard. Never exceed 1.5 inches — a thicker sand bed destabilizes the pavers.
Do I need gravel under the sand for pavers?
Yes — a 4–6 inch compacted gravel base is required beneath the bedding sand for patios and walkways. Skipping the gravel base causes settling, rocking, and cracked pavers.
What type of sand do I use under pavers?
Use coarse washed concrete sand (ASTM C-33) for the bedding layer. Use polymeric sand to fill the joints between pavers.