Paver Calculator

How it works

pavers = ⌈area ÷ ((L + joint) × (W + joint)) × (1 + waste% + pattern%)⌉ · circle area = π D² ÷ 4 · gravel = area × base depth × (1 + compaction%) · sand = area × sand depth · tons ≈ cu yd × 1.4 (gravel) or 1.35 (sand) · joint sand ≈ joint volume × 1.6 g/cm³ · excavation = paver + sand + base depth

Each paver takes up its own size plus one joint in each direction, so the area is divided by (length + joint) × (width + joint) and rounded up after adding waste. Most concrete pavers have spacer nibs and are sold by nominal size, so the default “tight” joint uses the size as entered; choose a joint width for natural stone or pavers without nibs. Five percent waste covers a running-bond or basketweave patio; herringbone adds about 5% and a 45° herringbone or diagonal layout about 10%, because every edge piece is cut. Under the pavers goes a compacted gravel base — 4–6 inches for patios and walkways, 8–12 inches for driveways — with about 20% extra to allow for compaction, then about an inch of bedding sand. The calculator converts those layers to cubic yards (or cubic meters) and tons, estimates polymeric joint sand from the joint volume, gives the edge-restraint length and how deep to dig, and prices everything you enter.

Worked example

A 12 × 10 ft patio is 120 sq ft. With 8 × 4 in pavers (0.222 sq ft each): 120 ÷ 0.222 = 540, plus 5% waste = 567 pavers. A 4 in gravel base is 120 × 4/12 = 40 cu ft; with 20% for compaction 48 cu ft = 1.78 cu yd, about 2.5 tons. One inch of sand is 10 cu ft = 0.37 cu yd, about 0.5 ton. The edge restraint runs the 44 ft perimeter, and you dig 2 3/8 + 1 + 4 = 7 3/8 in deep. At $0.65 a paver the pavers cost $368.55.

Sources: Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI) Tech Specs

Frequently asked questions