About the paver calculator
A paver project has three material orders: the pavers, a compacted gravel base, and a thin layer of bedding sand. This calculator handles all three from one set of measurements.
Enter the area and the paver size from the product label. Add base and sand depths for volumes, and a price per paver for cost.
How to use this calculator
- Measure the area. Use the Garden Area Calculator for curved patios.
- Enter the paver’s length and width.
- Pick a waste allowance based on your pattern and edges.
- Optionally enter base and sand depths and a price per paver.
Worked examples
- 100 sq ft, 4 × 8 in pavers, 5% waste
- Paver face = 0.222 sq ft
- 105 ÷ 0.222 = 472.5
473 pavers; a 4 in base is about 1.23 cu yd.
Measurement guidance
Base depth
Walkways and patios commonly use a compacted base several inches deep; driveways need more. Follow the paver manufacturer’s or a local installer’s recommendation for your soil and use.
Patterns and waste
Running bond and stack patterns waste little. Herringbone and curved edges require more cuts, so raise the allowance.
Frequently asked questions
How many pavers per square foot?
Divide 1 by the paver’s face area in square feet. A 4 × 8 in paver is 0.222 sq ft, so about 4.5 per square foot.
How much waste should I add?
5–10% for simple layouts and 10–15% for herringbone or curved designs is a common starting point.
Do I need sand under pavers?
Most paver installations use a thin, screeded bedding layer over the compacted base. Follow your paver manufacturer’s instructions.