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Paver Calculator
Plan a patio, walkway or driveway. The calculator returns the number of pavers (with an allowance for cuts and breakage), plus the base gravel and bedding sand in cubic yards.
Results are estimates. Soil, stone and mulch settle, weigh differently and vary by supplier. Confirm quantities and local requirements before ordering.
How to calculate it
First work out the area of the patio in square feet. Then work out the area of one paver, including its share of the joint: (width + joint) × (length + joint) in inches, divided by 144. Divide the patio area by that number to get the paver count, and add 10% for cuts and breakage.
The base and sand are volumes: area × depth, divided by 27 for cubic yards. Base gravel is usually crushed stone, compacted in layers, and sand is a thin screeded layer on top.
Worked example
A 16 ft × 12 ft patio with 6 × 9 inch pavers, 4 inches of base and 1 inch of sand:
| Area | 192 sq ft |
|---|---|
| Pavers needed (no extra) | 495 each paver covers 0.388 sq ft with joints |
| Pavers to order | 545 includes 10% extra for cuts and breakage |
| Base gravel | 2.37 cubic yards about 3.3 tons of crushed stone; order 10–15% more for compaction |
| Bedding sand | 0.59 cubic yards about 0.8 tons |
Typical base depths
| Use | Compacted base |
|---|---|
| Walkway or patio | 4–6 inches |
| Driveway | 8–12 inches |
| Poor or clay soil | Add 2–4 inches |
Tips
- Add 10% for straight layouts and 15% or more for diagonal or curved patterns, where there are more cuts.
- Order base material about 10–15% over the calculated volume, because it compacts as you tamp it.
- Keep a few spare pavers in storage. Matching a batch later can be difficult.
- Edge restraint, fabric and polymeric sand are extra items that this calculator does not count.
Frequently asked questions
How many pavers do I need per square foot?
It depends on the paver size. A 6 × 9 inch paver covers about 0.39 sq ft with 1/8 inch joints, so you need roughly 2.6 pavers per square foot. 12 × 12 inch pavers need about 1 per square foot.
How much base do I need under pavers?
Patios and walkways typically get 4–6 inches of compacted crushed stone. Driveways need a deeper base. Check the manufacturer's guidance and local conditions.
How much sand goes under pavers?
About 1 inch of bedding sand, screeded flat. Do not use it to level an uneven base.
How much extra should I order?
About 10% for simple layouts and 15% or more for complex ones. Add extra if you are cutting many pieces.