Use the right sand
Coarse concrete sand is the correct bedding layer under pavers. Play sand and mason sand are too fine and will migrate. Polymeric sand goes in the joints only, never as bedding.
- • Screed bedding sand to exactly 1 inch — thicker layers rut under load.
- • Never use bedding sand to level a bad base; fix the base.
- • Order 10% extra for screeding losses.
FAQ
How much sand do I need for pavers?
One inch of bedding sand over the base area. For a 320 sq ft patio that's about 1 cubic yard, or roughly 1.3 tons.
How many 50 lb bags of sand in a cubic yard?
About 54 bags, since a cubic yard of dry sand weighs roughly 2,700 pounds.
Is play sand the same as paver sand?
No. Play sand is washed and very fine; paver bedding requires coarse, angular concrete sand that locks in place under load.
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