Paver Calculator
Calculate the number of pavers, sand, and edge restraint needed for your patio or walkway project. See also our Paver Sand Calculator, Concrete Calculator, and Gravel Calculator.
How to Use the Paver Calculator
Enter the length and width of your patio, walkway, or driveway area in feet. Select your paver size from common options. Choose your laying pattern — herringbone requires more cuts and waste than running bond or stack bond. The calculator determines the total number of pavers including waste allowance, bedding sand quantity, perimeter edge restraint, and polymeric sand for filling joints. Order 5-10% extra pavers beyond the waste calculation for future repairs.
Formula
Area = Length x Width (sq ft)
Paver area = Paver Width x Paver Length / 144 (sq ft)
Pavers needed = Area / Paver area x (1 + Waste%)
Bedding sand = Area x (1/12) ft depth x 100 lbs/cu ft / 2000
Edge restraint = 2 x (Length + Width)
Polymeric sand bags = Area / 50 sq ft per bag
Example Calculation
Patio: 20 ft x 15 ft = 300 sq ft, 4x8 pavers, running bond
Paver area = (4 x 8) / 144 = 0.222 sq ft each
Base pavers = 300 / 0.222 = 1,350 pavers
With 5% waste = 1,350 x 1.05 = 1,418 pavers
Bedding sand = 300 x 0.083 x 100 / 2000 = 1.25 tons
Edge restraint = 2 x (20 + 15) = 70 linear feet
Polymeric sand = 300 / 50 = 6 bags
Reference Table: Paver Sizes and Coverage
| Paver Size | Sq Ft Each | Per 100 Sq Ft | Weight Each | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4" x 8" | 0.222 | 450 | 4-5 lbs | Driveways, patios |
| 6" x 6" | 0.250 | 400 | 5-6 lbs | Walkways, patios |
| 6" x 9" | 0.375 | 267 | 7-8 lbs | Patios, pool decks |
| 8" x 8" | 0.444 | 225 | 8-10 lbs | Patios, plazas |
| 12" x 12" | 1.000 | 100 | 15-20 lbs | Stepping stones, patios |
| 16" x 16" | 1.778 | 57 | 25-35 lbs | Large patios, commercial |
Frequently Asked Questions
How thick should the sand base be for pavers?
The bedding sand layer should be exactly 1 inch thick after screeding and before placing pavers. Too thick (over 1.5 inches) causes settling and unevenness. The sand sits on top of a compacted gravel base that is typically 4-6 inches deep for patios and 8-12 inches for driveways.
Which paver pattern is strongest for driveways?
Herringbone (45° or 90°) is the strongest pattern for driveways and areas with vehicular traffic. The interlocking angles distribute load across multiple pavers and resist shifting. Running bond is acceptable for light traffic. Avoid stack bond for driveways as it has no interlock.
How much extra should I order for cuts and waste?
Order 5% extra for running bond and stack bond patterns with straight edges. Order 10% extra for herringbone patterns or areas with many curves. For circular or irregular shapes, order 15% extra. Always keep leftover pavers for future repairs — matching colors from different production runs is difficult.
Do I need edge restraint for all paver installations?
Yes, edge restraint is essential for every paver installation. Without it, pavers will spread apart over time, opening joints and allowing weed growth. Use aluminum or plastic paver edging secured with 10-inch spikes every 12 inches. Concrete borders or existing structures (house foundation, garage slab) can also serve as edge restraint.
What is polymeric sand and do I need it?
Polymeric sand is a fine sand mixed with polymer binders that hardens when activated with water. It locks pavers together, prevents weed growth, and resists ant infestation and washout. It's strongly recommended for all paver installations. One 50-lb bag covers approximately 50 sq ft with standard 1/8-inch joints.
How long do concrete pavers last?
Quality concrete pavers last 25-50 years with proper installation and minimal maintenance. They're stronger than poured concrete (8,000+ PSI vs 3,000-4,000 PSI for standard concrete). Individual damaged pavers can be replaced without disturbing the surrounding area, making repairs simple and cost-effective.