Loading Calculator...
Please wait a moment
Please wait a moment
Calculate pavers, base gravel, sand, and edge restraint
Did you find this calculator helpful?
A patio calculator helps you determine the exact number of pavers, amount of base gravel, bedding sand, and edge restraint materials needed for your patio project. It accounts for the paver size, pattern, and waste factor to ensure you order the right quantities.
A properly built patio requires several layers:
Example: 120 sq ft × 4.5 pavers/sq ft × 1.10 = 594 pavers (with 10% waste)
Rule of thumb: 1 ton of sand covers ~100 sq ft at 1" depth
Dig 6-8 inches below the desired finished paver height. This allows for: 4-6" gravel base + 1" sand + paver thickness (typically 2-3").
Use coarse, sharp concrete sand (NOT play sand). Screed to exactly 1 inch depth using pipes as guides. Do NOT compact before laying pavers.
Slope patio 1/8" to 1/4" per foot away from structures. A 10-foot patio should slope 1.25" to 2.5" from house to edge.
| Pattern | Waste Factor | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Running Bond | 5% | Easy | Rectangular spaces, beginners |
| Herringbone 45° | 10% | Moderate | Driveways, high traffic |
| Herringbone 90° | 8% | Moderate | Walkways, patios |
| Basketweave | 5% | Easy | Traditional look, patios |
| Stack Bond | 3% | Very Easy | Modern look, square pavers |
| Random | 15% | Advanced | Natural look, mixed sizes |
Tip: Herringbone patterns provide the best interlock for vehicular areas. Running bond is easiest for DIY projects. Always order extra pavers for future repairs.
Use string lines to maintain straight edges and proper slope throughout installation.
Start from a fixed edge (house, sidewalk) and work outward. Cut pavers go at the edges.
Maintain 1/8" gaps between pavers. Built-in spacer tabs help with consistent spacing.
Run plate compactor over finished surface to set pavers into sand bed. Use rubber mat to protect paver faces.
Sweep polymeric sand into joints, compact again, mist with water to activate binding agents.
Install edge restraint immediately after laying pavers. Stake every 12 inches and at all joints.
For standard 4×8 inch pavers, you need about 4.5 pavers per square foot. Larger 12×12 pavers require only 1 per square foot. Always add 5-15% for waste depending on pattern.
No, pavers require a proper base. Without a compacted gravel base, pavers will shift, sink, and become uneven. The base also provides drainage to prevent frost heave.
DIY materials typically cost $4-8 per square foot including pavers, base, sand, and edging. Professional installation adds $6-15 per square foot for labor.
Use polymeric sand (jointing sand) between pavers. When activated with water, it hardens to lock pavers together and resist weeds, ants, and erosion. Regular sand washes away.
Most areas don't require permits for patios at grade level. However, check local codes for setback requirements, especially near property lines or if attaching to the house.
Yes, pavers can be lifted, cleaned, and reinstalled. Check for cracks or damage first. You may need fresh bedding sand and definitely new polymeric joint sand.