MaterialSum

Paver Calculator

Enter your patio or path dimensions and paver size to get the number of pavers — plus optional bedding sand and gravel base quantities.

Dimensions
ft
ft
in
in
in
Material & Waste
Optional Cost
Enter your measurements above to see results.

How to use the Paver Calculator

  1. Enter the project dimensions.
  2. Enter paver size and joint spacing (⅛–¼ in typical for pavers with built-in spacers, use 0 for interlocking).
  3. Keep 10% waste for cuts — patios with curves need 15–20%.
  4. Tick the base estimate to size bedding sand (1 in) and gravel base (4 in compacted).

Formula & methodology

Effective paver area = (paver length + joint) × (paver width + joint). Pavers = Area ÷ effective area × (1 + waste). Base: sand = area × 1 in; gravel = area × 4 in × 1.25 compaction factor.

Example

A 12 ft × 12 ft patio with 12 in × 12 in pavers and tight joints: 144 pavers exact, buy 159 with 10% waste. Base: about 0.45 cu yd of bedding sand and 1.1 cu yd (~1.5 tons) of gravel.

Related calculators

Gravel CalculatorMeasure your area, choose a depth, and instantly see how much gravel to order in cubic yards, tons, or bags.Sand CalculatorEnter area and depth to get the amount of sand you need — by volume, weight, or 50 lb bags.Concrete CalculatorEnter your project dimensions to find out how much concrete you need — in cubic yards, cubic meters, or bags of Quikrete-style mix.Driveway Gravel CalculatorA durable gravel driveway is built in layers.

FAQ

How many 12×12 pavers make a square foot?

Exactly one — so a 100 ft² patio needs 100 pavers plus 10% waste (110). Use this calculator for other sizes and joint gaps.

How much sand do I need under pavers?

About 1 inch of bedding sand (paver sand) over 4–6 inches of compacted gravel. The calculator estimates both from your area.

How much waste should I add for pavers?

10% for rectangular layouts, 15–20% for curved borders, circles or diagonal patterns.

Can I lay pavers over concrete?

Yes, if the slab is sound and slopes away from the house — glue edge pavers and use ~½–1 in of sand or paver base. Drainage matters.