Paver Calculator
Count the pavers for a patio or path — and the base gravel and bedding sand underneath.
Last reviewed 2026-06-06
A paver patio is really three materials: the pavers themselves, a compacted gravel base, and a thin bedding-sand layer. Miss any one and you either run short or end up with a patio that heaves and sinks.
Enter the area and paver size for the paver count, and a base depth for the gravel underneath. We also size the bedding sand, so you can order everything in one trip.
How to use the Paver Calculator
- Measure the length and width of the patio or path.
- Enter the size of a single paver.
- Set the base gravel depth (4 in / 10 cm for patios, more for driveways).
- Read the paver count plus the base gravel and bedding sand volumes.
Frequently asked questions
How many pavers do I need?
Divide the area by the area of one paver, then add about 5% for cuts (more for diagonal or curved layouts). For a 12 × 10 ft patio with 12 × 12 in pavers that is roughly 126 pavers including waste. The calculator does it for you.
How deep should the paver base be?
A compacted gravel base of about 4 inches (10 cm) suits patios and walkways. Driveways and areas with vehicle traffic need 6 inches (15 cm) or more. Add a 1 inch (2.5 cm) bedding-sand layer on top.
What is bedding sand and how much do I need?
Bedding sand is a thin, screeded layer (about 1 inch / 2.5 cm) that the pavers sit in, letting you level each one. Multiply your area by that depth — the calculator shows the volume above.
Should I use polymeric sand?
Polymeric sand goes in the joints between pavers (not as the bedding layer). It hardens when wet to lock pavers together and resist weeds and ants. It is sold by the bag based on paver size and joint width.