Sand Calculator: How Much Sand for Concrete, Plaster or Mortar?
Choose the type of work and enter the volume or area. The calculator gives the sand in cubic metres, cubic feet, tonnes and truck loads, and tells you how much cement goes with it.
Estimates only. Check important results before you rely on them.
More Construction calculators
View all 10You may also need
From related categoriesHow to use this calculator
- Choose concrete, plaster or brickwork.
- Enter the volume or the plaster area and thickness.
- Pick the mix or ratio and the wastage.
- Read the sand in cubic feet and tonnes to place your order.
The formula
Worked example
For 500 sq ft of 12 mm plaster in a 1:4 mix with 5% wastage, the wet volume is 0.585 m³ and the dry volume is 0.778 m³, so sand is 0.778 × 4 ÷ 5 = 0.62 m³ (about 22 cft or 1 tonne).
Understanding your result
Sand is sold by the cubic foot, the tonne or the load, and the prices differ, so the calculator shows all three. Damp sand bulks up, so you may need a little more than the dry figure on site.
When to use it
- Order sand for plastering and brickwork.
- Compare quantities for different mixes.
- Plan truck deliveries and storage space.
Assumptions and limits
These are planning estimates. Real use depends on material quality, site conditions and workmanship. Confirm quantities with your engineer or contractor before ordering. Sand density is taken as 1.6 tonnes per m³, which varies with moisture and type.
Frequently asked questions
How much sand is needed for 100 sq ft of plaster?
About 4 to 5 cft for 12 mm thickness in a 1:4 mix, depending on wastage.
How do I convert cubic metres of sand to cft?
Multiply by 35.31.
How heavy is 1 m³ of sand?
Around 1.5 to 1.7 tonnes. The tool uses 1.6.
Does damp sand change the quantity?
Wet sand bulks up, so a given weight takes more volume. Allow some extra.
How much cement goes with this sand?
See the "Cement for the same work" line.