1. What is the Paver Sand Foundation Calculator?

The Paver Sand Foundation Calculator estimates the amount of sand needed for a stable base when installing pavers. Proper sand bedding is crucial for paver stability, drainage, and longevity of the installation.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• \( Area \) — The surface area to be covered with pavers
• \( Depth \) — The depth of the sand bedding layer (typically 0.03m or 30mm)
• \( Density \) — The density of the sand (typically 1600 kg/m³)

Explanation: The calculation determines the weight of sand needed by multiplying the volume (area × depth) by the sand density.

3. Importance of Proper Sand Bedding

Details: A proper sand foundation provides a stable, level base for pavers, allows for minor adjustments during installation, and facilitates drainage to prevent water pooling.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure the area accurately in square meters. The standard depth is 30mm (0.03m) for most paver installations. The default density of 1600 kg/m³ works for most construction sand.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What type of sand should I use for paver bedding?
A: Use coarse, granular sand (often called "paver sand" or "bedding sand") that compacts well but still allows drainage.

Q2: Can I use this calculator for other materials?
A: Yes, you can use it for other materials by adjusting the density value accordingly.

Q3: How much extra sand should I account for?
A: It's recommended to add 5-10% to account for compaction and spillage during installation.

Q4: What's the minimum depth for sand bedding?
A: Never go below 25mm (0.025m) as insufficient depth can lead to uneven settling and paver movement.

Q5: Do I need a different calculation for polymeric sand?
A: Yes, polymeric sand for joints has different application requirements and should be calculated separately.