How the paver calculator works
Pavers = Area × (1 + waste) × 144 ÷ (paver width × paver length)
Base gravel = Area × base depth ÷ 12 ÷ 27 (cu yd) × 1.5 tons
Sand = Area × sand depth ÷ 12 ÷ 27 (cu yd) × 1.35 tons
How deep should the base be?
For a walkway or patio that only carries foot traffic, 4 inches of compacted crushed gravel base is common; 6 inches is better on clay or poorly draining soil, and driveways need more. Add 1 inch of coarse bedding sand on top, screeded flat.
Waste and patterns
Buy 5–10% extra for straight patterns, and up to 15% for herringbone or designs with curves, where many pavers get cut. Keep a few spares for future repairs.
Don't forget
- Edge restraint around the perimeter so the pavers don't spread.
- Polymeric or joint sand to fill the gaps after the pavers are laid.
- Excavation depth: base + sand + paver thickness (often about 7–8 inches total for a patio).
Frequently asked questions
How many pavers do I need for a 12x12 patio?
144 sq ft with 10% waste is 713 standard 4×8 brick pavers, or 159 pavers of 12×12.
How many 4x8 pavers per square foot?
4.5 pavers per square foot.
How much gravel for a paver base?
At 4 inches deep, each 100 sq ft needs about 1.23 cubic yards, or roughly 1.9 tons of crushed gravel base.