Why Sand for Pavers?
Sand serves two critical roles in paver installations: as a bedding layer and as joint filler. The bedding layer creates a smooth, level surface on top of the compacted gravel base, allowing pavers to be set evenly. Joint sand fills the gaps between pavers, locking them together and preventing lateral movement while allowing water drainage.
Using the correct amount and type of sand is essential for a durable paver installation. Too little bedding sand creates an uneven surface, while too much can cause settling and unevenness over time. Proper joint filling is equally important for the interlocking strength of the paver system.
Types of Paver Sand
| Sand Type | Use | Grain Size |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete Sand (C-33) | Bedding layer | Coarse, angular |
| Mason Sand | Bedding & joints | Fine, smooth |
| Polymeric Sand | Joint filling | Fine with binder |
| Granite Screenings | Bedding layer | Crushed fine aggregate |
Calculation Formula
Recommended Depths
- Bedding layer: 1 inch is standard; range is 3/4 to 1-1/2 inches
- Joint sand: Fill to within 1/8 inch of the paver surface
- Compaction: Bedding sand compacts approximately 25%, so place slightly more
Worked Example
A 20 × 15 ft patio with 1 in bedding and 1/4 in joints:
Bedding = 300 × (1/12) = 25 cu ft = 0.93 cu yd
Joint sand ≈ 0.10 cu yd
Total ≈ 1.03 cu yd (~1.4 tons)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does paver sand weigh?
Dry sand weighs approximately 2,700 lb per cubic yard (1.35 tons). Wet sand is heavier at about 3,100 lb per cubic yard. When ordering, specify dry weight to ensure you get the correct volume.
Can I use polymeric sand for bedding?
No. Polymeric sand is designed only for joint filling. It contains a polymer binder that hardens when activated with water, which would prevent proper drainage and flexibility if used as a bedding layer. Use concrete sand or mason sand for bedding.
How many bags of sand do I need?
A standard 50 lb bag of sand contains about 0.5 cubic feet. Divide your total cubic feet needed by 0.5 to get the number of bags. For large projects, buying in bulk by the cubic yard is more economical.