Paver Calculator

How to Calculate Pavers for a Patio or Walkway?

Multiply the project area length by the width to get total square footage. Divide the area by the surface coverage of one paver (in square feet) to find the number of pavers needed. A 20 x 15-foot patio using 6x9-inch pavers (0.375 sq ft each) needs 300 / 0.375 = 800 pavers before waste. Add 5-10% for cuts and breakage. The calculator above also estimates the sand bedding layer, gravel base, and edge restraint footage so you can order all materials at once.

What Paver Sizes Are Available?

Common paver sizes include 6x6 inches (0.25 sq ft, 4 per sq ft), 6x9 inches (0.375 sq ft, 2.67 per sq ft), 8x8 inches (0.44 sq ft, 2.25 per sq ft), and 12x12 inches (1.0 sq ft, 1 per sq ft). Larger format pavers cover more area with fewer pieces and fewer joints, creating a more contemporary look. Smaller pavers allow tighter curves and more intricate patterns. Thickness ranges from 2-3/8 inches for pedestrian use to 3-1/8 inches for vehicular driveways. Thicker pavers resist cracking under heavy loads but cost more per unit. Permeable pavers with wide joints allow stormwater to infiltrate rather than running off.

How Much Base Material Do I Need?

A proper paver installation requires two base layers. The gravel base (crushed stone, typically 3/4-inch) should be 4-6 inches deep for patios and walkways, 8-12 inches for driveways. This base provides structural support and drainage. Above the gravel sits a 1-inch layer of bedding sand (coarse, angular sand, not play sand) that the pavers are set into. For a 300-square-foot patio, the gravel base at 4 inches deep needs approximately 3.7 cubic yards, and the sand bedding needs about 0.9 cubic yards. The calculator estimates both layers automatically based on your project dimensions.

What Is Edge Restraint and Why Is It Needed?

Edge restraint is a rigid border that prevents pavers from shifting outward at the perimeter. Without edge restraint, the outer pavers gradually migrate, opening joints and destabilizing the entire surface. Plastic paver edging (snap-edge) is the most common type, installed with 10-inch steel spikes driven into the compacted base every 12 inches. Concrete curbing, existing walls, and structures can also serve as edge restraint. The total edge restraint length equals the perimeter of the paved area. A 20 x 15-foot patio needs 70 linear feet of edging. Install the edging after the base is compacted but before laying the sand bedding and pavers.

What Patterns Can I Lay Pavers In?

Running bond (brick pattern) is the simplest and fastest to install, with each row offset by half a paver length. Herringbone (45-degree or 90-degree) interlocks pavers for maximum resistance to shifting under vehicle traffic, making it the best pattern for driveways. Basket weave alternates pairs of pavers at right angles for a classic look. Circular patterns radiate from a center point and work well for accent areas and gathering spaces. Random patterns use multiple paver sizes mixed together. Pattern choice affects waste: running bond produces 5% waste, herringbone 10%, and circular patterns up to 15% because more cuts are needed.

How to Install Pavers Step by Step?

Excavate the area to the combined depth of the base, sand, and paver thickness (typically 8-10 inches for a patio). Compact the subgrade with a plate compactor. Install geotextile fabric over the subgrade to prevent soil from migrating into the base. Spread and compact gravel base in 2-inch lifts. Install edge restraint along the perimeter. Screed a 1-inch layer of bedding sand using pipe rails as guides. Lay pavers on the sand in your chosen pattern, maintaining consistent joints. Cut border pavers with a diamond blade wet saw. Compact the entire surface with a plate compactor using a rubber pad to avoid marking the pavers. Sweep polymeric sand into the joints and activate with a light mist of water.

How Much Do Pavers Cost?

Concrete pavers range from $3-$8 per square foot for material. Natural stone pavers (bluestone, travertine, slate) cost $8-$25 per square foot. Porcelain pavers run $6-$15 per square foot. Clay brick pavers cost $5-$15. Base materials (gravel and sand) add $1-$3 per square foot. Professional installation costs $6-$15 per square foot for labor. A 300-square-foot patio in concrete pavers runs approximately $900-$2,400 for materials plus $1,800-$4,500 for professional installation. The total project cost typically falls between $10-$25 per square foot all-in, depending on paver material and site preparation complexity.

Paver Maintenance and Longevity

Concrete pavers last 25-50 years with minimal maintenance. Sweep or blow debris regularly. Re-apply polymeric sand every 2-3 years as it washes out from joints. Pressure wash annually to remove stains and organic growth. Sealers enhance color and protect against oil stains but require reapplication every 2-3 years. Individual damaged pavers can be replaced without disturbing the surrounding surface, which is a significant advantage over poured concrete that requires patch work or full slab replacement. This repairability makes pavers a practical long-term investment for patios, walkways, and driveways.

Frequently asked questions