Paver Calculator
Calculate how many pavers you need for your patio, walkway, or driveway project. Enter area dimensions, paver size, and laying pattern for an instant estimate with waste factor included.
How to Calculate Pavers
The paver calculation considers paver size, laying pattern, and a waste factor:
- Measure the area you want to pave in feet (length x width).
- Choose your paver size and joint spacing (gap between pavers).
- Calculate pavers per sq ft: 144 / (paver length x paver width) gives pavers per square foot.
- Apply pattern factor: Different patterns require extra material for cuts and alignment.
- Add 10% waste: Always order extra for breakage, cuts, and future repairs.
Paver Laying Patterns
- Running Bond: The most popular pattern. Pavers are laid in offset rows like a brick wall. Simple to install with about 5% extra material needed for edge cuts.
- Herringbone (45° or 90°): Pavers are laid in a zigzag V-shape. Excellent for driveways as it resists shifting under load. Requires about 10% extra material due to angled cuts.
- Basketweave: Pairs of pavers alternate direction in a woven pattern. Classic look for patios and courtyards. About 5% extra material needed.
Base Preparation Guide
- Excavation: Dig 7-9 inches deep for patios/walkways, 12+ inches for driveways
- Gravel base: 4-6 inches of compacted crushed stone (patios) or 8-12 inches (driveways)
- Bedding sand: 1 inch of coarse, sharp sand leveled with a screed rail
- Edge restraints: Plastic or aluminum paver edging secured with spikes to prevent spreading
Bedding Sand Depth
A 1-inch bedding sand layer is standard for most paver installations. For every 100 sq ft of paver area, you will need approximately 0.31 cubic yards of sand. Use coarse, angular sand (ASTM C33) rather than fine play sand for proper drainage and interlock.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many pavers do I need per square foot?
The number of pavers per square foot depends on the paver size. For standard 4" x 8" pavers, you need about 4.5 pavers per square foot. For 6" x 6" pavers, you need 4 per square foot. For 6" x 9" pavers, you need about 2.67 per square foot.
How much sand do I need under pavers?
You need a 1-inch layer of bedding sand under pavers. For every 100 square feet, this equals about 0.31 cubic yards (or roughly 1/2 ton) of sand. Use coarse, sharp sand (not play sand) for proper drainage and leveling.
Do I need a compacted base under pavers?
Yes, a compacted gravel base is essential for a long-lasting paver installation. Use 4-6 inches of compacted crushed stone or gravel for walkways and patios, and 8-12 inches for driveways. The base prevents settling and shifting over time.
What size gap should I leave between pavers?
A 1/4 inch (0.25") gap is standard for most paver installations. This gap is filled with polymeric sand after installation, which hardens to lock pavers in place and prevent weed growth.
How many pavers come on a pallet?
A pallet of standard 4" x 8" pavers typically contains 400-500 pavers, covering about 100-120 square feet. Larger format pavers come in smaller quantities per pallet. Check with your supplier for exact counts.