A 10×10 patio = 100 square feet. With standard 4×8-inch brick pavers (0.222 sq ft each), you need approximately 450–500 pavers including a 10% waste factor. With 12×12-inch pavers (1 sq ft each), you need about 110 pavers. The exact count depends on paver size, pattern, and waste factor.

The gravel base for a residential patio should be 4–6 inches of compacted gravel (crushed stone). Add 1 inch of leveling sand on top of the compacted gravel for a total base depth of 5–7 inches. High-traffic areas or areas with poor soil drainage should use a 6-inch gravel base. Driveways need 8–12 inches.

Polymeric sand coverage varies by joint width and paver size, but a general rule is 1 bag (50 lbs) covers approximately 30–50 square feet. For 1/4-inch joints with 4×8 pavers, estimate 1 bag per 40 sq ft. Most manufacturers publish coverage charts — check your specific brand. Always buy extra; running short means an exposed seam.

Yes, always. Edge restraints (also called paver edging or landscape edging) hold the outer perimeter in place and prevent pavers from shifting outward over time. Without restraints, the entire patio creeps and gaps appear. Use plastic or aluminum snap-in edge restraints anchored with 12-inch spikes every 12 inches around the entire perimeter.