How to use the pavers calculator
- Choose Imperial or Metric.
- Enter the patio area and the length of edge that needs restraint. Use the square footage calculator first for irregular shapes.
- Enter the paver length, width and joint width.
- Enter the base depth and bedding sand depth.
- Set an allowance for cuts and breakage.
How the estimate works
Pavers = area ÷ ((length + joint) × (width + joint)) × (1 + waste), rounded up. Base = area × base depth. Sand = area × sand depth. Edge restraint is the length you enter. The takeoff lets you price each item.
Worked examples
200 ft² patio. 4 × 8 in pavers, 1/8 in joints, 5% waste: 903 pavers. 6 in base: 3.70 yd³. 1 in sand: 0.62 yd³. 60 ft of edging.
20 m² path. 200 × 100 mm pavers, 3 mm joints, 5% waste: 1,005 pavers. 150 mm base: 3 m³. 30 mm sand: 0.6 m³.
How to interpret the results
Pavers are sold per piece, per square foot or square metre, or per pallet. Compare the count with the supplier’s pallet coverage, and order all pavers from the same batch so colours match.
Tips and common mistakes
- Excavate deep enough for base, sand and paver thickness combined.
- Compact the base in layers as the supplier recommends.
- Slope the surface away from buildings for drainage.
- Don’t compact the sand before laying; screed it level.
Choosing a laying pattern
The pattern affects both the look and the number of cut pavers. Stack and running bond patterns are quick to lay and need the fewest cuts, which is why a 5% allowance is often enough. Herringbone, at 45° or 90°, interlocks better and is often chosen for driveways, but every edge piece has to be cut, so allow more waste. Basket weave and circle kits fall in between. Whatever pattern you choose, set out string lines first so the courses stay straight, and start laying from a straight, fixed edge such as a building wall.
Edges and drainage
Edges are where paving usually fails. Fix the edge restraint firmly before filling the joints, and finish the paving slightly above surrounding lawn so water runs off rather than pooling. Give the surface a gentle fall away from buildings so it drains.
Assumptions and limitations
Base and sand depths depend on use (foot traffic or vehicles), soil and climate. Follow the paver manufacturer’s installation guide; driveways may need an engineered base.