Paver Calculator
Find how many pavers your patio needs, plus the bedding sand and base gravel that go underneath.
Results are estimates for planning. Base depth depends on soil and use — go deeper for driveways or soft ground, and confirm with a local supplier.
How to Measure for Pavers
A paver project is calculated from the patio area and the size of each paver.
Patio area
Measure the length and width of the area in feet, or enter the total square footage. Break L-shaped patios into rectangles and add them.
Paver size and base
Pick the paver size — the calculator works out how many cover the area. It also estimates a 1 inch bedding sand layer and a 4 inch compacted gravel base.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skimping on the base. A thin or poorly compacted base is the top reason patios sink and heave. Don't cut it short.
- Too little waste. Edges and patterns mean cut pavers — add 5-10% depending on the layout.
- No edge restraint. Without edging, pavers spread apart over time and the joints open up.
- Forgetting slope. A patio needs a slight slope to drain; plan the base so water runs away from the house.
Frequently Asked Questions
Divide the patio area by the area of one paver. A 6×6 in paver covers 0.25 sq ft, so 100 sq ft needs about 400 pavers before waste.
About a 1 inch bedding layer of coarse sand. The calculator estimates it in tons from the patio area.
4-6 inches of compacted gravel for a patio or path, 8-12 inches for a driveway.
About 5% for straight patterns, 10%+ for diagonal or herringbone layouts and curved edges.
The area is the same, but diagonal and herringbone layouts create more cut edge pieces, so allow extra waste.