How many shovel scoops of sand make up a cubic foot?

Question

approximately, for mortar purposes

Answer 1

You don't have to do it that way, I mean by the cubic foot.

Most Masons put three shovels of sand and one shovel of Mortar. That's a standard mix. If you want to be more accurate, use a 2 1/2 gallon bucket, fill it 3 times with sand, and 1 time with Mortar. Works for me.

But if you still want to know the answer, build a square box that has an interior measurement of 12" x 12" x 12", fill it with sand level to the top, and dump it into a 5 gallon bucket. Level the sand and draw a line around it with a magic marker. That way, you will have a one cubic foot container with a wide mouth and pick up handle.

Answer 2

1 cubic foot is 12" x 12 " x!2" I would guess about 3 shovels full depending on the size of your shovel standard mortar mix is 3 to 1 (3 sand to 1 cement)

Answer 3

With all due respect; that can't strictly be answered; even apporoximating, as one might define a shovel full differently, individually, and from each successive scoop up. You'd find a bit more accuracy in using a bucket; A 2 or 2 1/2 gallon scrub bucket, filled, would more closely approximate a cubic foot of sand; and be far easier to SEE/Envision a cubic ft. as you fill it.