Paver calculator
How many pavers do I need?
Estimate the number of pavers for patios, walkways, and driveways. Includes waste allowance for cuts and breakage.
Paver calculator
Paver calculator result
Paver base preparation
A proper base is essential for a long-lasting paver installation. Excavate 7-8 inches for a driveway or 5-6 inches for a patio. Add 4-6 inches of compacted gravel base, then 1 inch of sand. Compact each layer before laying pavers. Use edge restraints to prevent shifting.
Common paver sizes
- 12x12 inches: 1 sq ft per paver, most common for simple patterns
- 4x8 inches: Often used for herringbone and brick patterns in driveways
- 6x6 inches: Good for small patios and pathways
- 8x16 inches: Larger format for modern designs, fewer joints
Worked example
For example, for a 12×10 ft patio with 12×12 in pavers, 10% waste:
- Patio area = 12 × 10 = 120 sq ft
- Paver area = (12 × 12) ÷ 144 = 1 sq ft each
- Pavers before waste = 120 ÷ 1 = 120 pavers
- With 10% waste: 120 × 1.10 = 132 pavers
- Order 135 pavers to have extra for cuts and future repairs
Common mistakes
| Mistake | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Not compacting the base properly | 4-6 inches of compacted gravel base prevents settling and shifting |
| Using polymeric sand incorrectly | Sweep joint sand into gaps, then mist with water to activate — do not soak |
| Ignoring edge restraints | Without edge restraints, pavers at the perimeter will shift outward over time |