Paver Calculator
Calculate the number of pavers and base materials needed for patios, walkways, and driveways — with joint spacing and waste factor.
Paver count includes 10% waste for cuts and breakage. Gravel base assumes 4" compacted depth. Sand bed assumes 1" screeded layer. Edge restraint equals the perimeter of the paved area.
How It Works
This calculator determines how many pavers you need based on your area dimensions, paver size, and joint width. It also estimates gravel base, sand bedding, and edge restraint.
Formula: Pavers = Area (sq ft) ÷ ((Paver Length + Joint Width) × (Paver Width + Joint Width) ÷ 144) × 1.10 (10% waste).
Base materials: Gravel base = Area × 4" ÷ 12 ÷ 27 cubic yards. Sand bed = Area × 1" ÷ 12 ÷ 27 cubic yards. Edge restraint = perimeter in linear feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate how many pavers I need?
Divide the total area in square feet by the area of one paver (including the joint width) in square feet. The paver area in square feet is (paver length + joint width) × (paver width + joint width) ÷ 144. Add 10% for waste due to cuts and breakage.
How much gravel base do I need under pavers?
A standard paver base is 4 inches of compacted gravel (crushed stone). Calculate cubic yards as: area (sq ft) × 4 inches ÷ 12 ÷ 27. For driveways or heavy traffic areas, increase the base to 6-8 inches.
How much sand do I need for a paver bed?
A 1-inch sand bedding layer is standard. Calculate cubic yards as: area (sq ft) × 1 inch ÷ 12 ÷ 27. Use coarse, sharp sand (concrete sand) — not play sand. The sand should be screeded level before laying pavers.
What joint width should I use between pavers?
A 1/4-inch (0.25 in) joint is standard for most paver installations. Some designs use 1/8-inch joints for a tighter look. Permeable paver systems may use wider 3/8-inch joints filled with aggregate for drainage.
Do I need edge restraints for pavers?
Yes, edge restraints are essential to prevent pavers from shifting over time. You need them along all exposed edges. Calculate linear feet as the perimeter of your paved area: 2 × (length + width) for rectangular areas.