Sand is a versatile material used for everything from masonry mortar to playground bases. Like gravel, it is sold by volume (cubic yards) or weight (tons). However, sand density varies greatly depending on how wet it is.

The Moisture Factor

Wet sand is significantly heavier than dry sand. A cubic yard of dry sand might weigh 2,600 lbs, while the same volume of wet sand could weigh over 3,000 lbs.