How do I calculate how many pavers I need?

Multiply project length by width to get square feet, divide by one paver's square-foot coverage, then add 5% to 15% extra for cuts, breakage, and pattern waste.

How much sand goes under pavers?

Most paver projects use about 1 inch of bedding sand over a compacted gravel base. Use less only when your paver system or local contractor specifies a different bedding layer.

How deep should the gravel base be for pavers?

Walkways and patios often use 4 to 6 inches of compacted base. Driveways and vehicle areas usually need a deeper base, commonly 8 to 12 inches or more depending on soil and climate.

Should I include edge restraint in a paver estimate?

Yes. Edge restraint keeps pavers from spreading at the perimeter, especially along driveways, parking pads, walkways, and curb-adjacent projects.

How much waste should I add for pavers?

Use 10% waste for most simple rectangular layouts. Increase waste for diagonal patterns, curves, borders, many cuts, or irregular patio shapes.

Patio, walkway, and driveway paver estimator

Free Paver Calculator

A paver calculator estimates the number of pavers, base gravel, bedding sand, edge restraint, waste, and material cost for a paved area. Use it to plan patios, walkways, driveways, parking pads, and curb-adjacent hardscape projects before ordering materials.

Project details

Length

Width

Paver length

Paver width

Base gravel depth

Bedding sand depth

Waste allowance

Price per paver

Base gravel price

$/ ton

Bedding sand price

$/ ton

Patios

Start with the full finished footprint, then add waste for border cuts, curves, and pattern layout.

Walkways

Measure the walking surface plus any widened landing areas near doors, gates, or curb cuts.

Driveways

Use a deeper compacted base for vehicle loads and confirm local base depth requirements before ordering.

Paver calculator FAQ

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