Construction & ContractorsHardscape Layout
Paver Calculator
Calculate patio and walkway pavers, bedding sand, base crushed stone, cut waste, and total material costs.
Calculation Results
Paver & Base Material Formula
Pavers Needed = (Project Area sq ft / Paver Area sq ft) × (1 + Waste %) | Gravel Base = (Area × 4 in / 12) / 27- Paver Surface Area: (Length in × Width in) / 144 sq in per sq ft (e.g. 4x8 paver = 0.222 sq ft = 4.5 pavers/sq ft).
- Base Gravel: 4 inches of compacted #57 crushed stone base underneath pedestrian patios.
- Bedding Sand: 1 inch of sharp concrete sand screeded directly beneath pavers.
Step-by-Step Worked Example
Scenario: A 20 ft × 15 ft backyard patio using standard 4x8 inch brick pavers
Calculation Steps:
- Paver Area = (8 × 4) / 144 = 0.222 sq ft (4.50 pavers / sq ft)
- Net Pavers = 300 × 4.50 = 1,350 pavers
- Total with 10% Waste = 1,350 × 1.10 = 1,485 pavers
- Gravel Base (4 in) = (300 × 4/12) / 27 = 3.70 cubic yards
- Bedding Sand (1 in) = (300 × 1/12) / 27 = 0.93 cubic yards
- Paver Material Cost = 1,485 × $1.25 = $1,856.25
Result: The patio requires 1,485 pavers ($1,856), plus 3.70 cu yd of base gravel and 0.93 cu yd of bedding sand.
How to Use This Calculator
- 1Enter patio or walkway square footage.
- 2Specify individual paver length and width in inches.
Assumptions & Limitations
- Estimates are based on standard national averages and current prevailing construction materials and contractor rates.
- Actual trade bids may fluctuate according to local building code requirements, permit fees, and site topography.
- Always obtain multiple written bids from licensed, bonded, and insured contractors before commencing work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do pavers need 10% to 15% cut waste?
Border cuts around edges, curves, and herringbone or diagonal layouts require substantial trimming. 10% covers simple rectangles; use 15% for curved borders.
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