Paver Calculator — How Many Pavers Do I Need?
Calculate the exact number of pavers, polymeric sand, gravel base, and edge restraint needed for your patio, walkway, or driveway project.
How to Use This Calculator
- Select your area shape (rectangle, circle, or enter custom square footage)
- Enter your dimensions in feet
- Choose your paver size from the dropdown
- Select your laying pattern — herringbone adds extra waste for angled cuts
- Adjust the waste factor (10% standard, more for complex patterns)
- Click "Calculate Pavers" to see your full materials list
How the Calculation Works
total_area = length × width (rectangle)
pavers_per_sqft = 144 / (paver_length_in × paver_width_in)
total_pavers = ceil(total_area × pavers_per_sqft × (1 + waste_factor))
// Herringbone pattern: add extra 15% cutting waste
polymeric_sand_bags = ceil(total_area / 50)
gravel_base_tons = total_area × 0.06 // 4" gravel base
leveling_sand_tons = total_area × 0.013 // 1" bedding sand
edge_restraint_ft = perimeter The calculator converts your area to square feet, then determines how many pavers fit per square foot based on paver size. A waste factor accounts for cuts and breakage. Gravel base is estimated at 4" depth (0.06 tons/sqft), bedding sand at 1" depth (0.013 tons/sqft), and polymeric sand at approximately one 50lb bag per 50 square feet of joint coverage.
Variables:
- total_area: Total paved area in square feet
- pavers_per_sqft: Number of pavers that fit in one square foot
- waste_factor: Percentage for cuts, breakage, and pattern waste
- polymeric_sand_bags: 50lb bags of polymeric sand for joints
- gravel_base_tons: Tons of compacted gravel for the base layer
- edge_restraint_ft: Linear feet of plastic or metal edge restraint
Pro Tips
- Add 10% extra pavers for cuts at edges and waste — herringbone patterns need 15–20% extra
- Always install a 4–6" compacted gravel base for proper drainage and a stable surface
- Use polymeric sand in joints to prevent weeds and lock pavers in place
- Compact the gravel base in 2" lifts for best results — a plate compactor is essential
- Run a string line to check for level before laying pavers — small errors compound quickly
Recommended Products
Frequently Asked Questions
How many pavers do I need for a 10x10 patio?
For a 10×10 patio (100 sq ft) using standard 4×8" pavers, you need approximately 450 pavers plus 10% waste — about 495 total. For 12×12" pavers, you need about 110 pavers.
How deep should a gravel base be under pavers?
For patios and walkways, use a 4" compacted gravel base. For driveways, use 6–8". Always add 1" of bedding sand on top of the gravel before laying pavers.
What is polymeric sand and do I need it?
Polymeric sand is a jointing sand with added polymers that hardens when wet. It locks pavers together, resists weeds, and prevents erosion. It is strongly recommended over regular sand for paver joints.
How much extra should I order for a herringbone pattern?
Herringbone and diagonal patterns require 15–20% additional pavers due to cuts at the edges. Add this on top of the standard 10% waste factor.
Do I need edge restraints for pavers?
Yes. Edge restraints (plastic or metal) hold the perimeter pavers in place and prevent the entire installation from spreading over time. Install them along all exposed edges.