How this calculator works
The paver count is your area divided by the area of one paver, plus an allowance for the cuts you will have to make around edges. Under the pavers go a compacted crushed-stone base and a thin screeded bed of sand. We work out the volume of each layer and convert to tons.
Worked example: a 12 × 12 ft patio (144 ft²) in 6 × 9 in pavers (0.375 ft² each): 144 ÷ 0.375 = 384 pavers, or 423 with 10% cut waste. A 4 in compacted base is 1.78 yd³ of finished depth, so allowing 20% for compaction you order about 2.1 yd³, roughly 3 tons of crushed stone.
Tips before you buy
- The base does the work. Patios and walkways typically need 4 to 6 in of compacted crushed stone, and driveways 8 to 12 in. Skipping the base is the main reason patios sink and heave.
- Compact the base in 2 to 4 in layers with a plate compactor, then screed the sand without walking on it.
- Order a few extra pavers from the same batch. Colors vary between production lots, so a later top-up may not match.
- Slope the patio away from the house by about 1/4 in per foot so water drains.
Tools & materials for this project
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Frequently asked questions
How many pavers do I need per square foot?
Divide 1 by the area of one paver. A 4 × 8 in brick paver covers 0.222 ft², so you need 4.5 per ft². A 12 × 12 in paver covers 1 ft². Then add 10% for cuts.
How deep should the base be for a paver patio?
Typically 4 to 6 inches of compacted crushed stone for foot traffic, and 8 to 12 inches for driveways, depending on soil and local practice.
How much sand goes under pavers?
A 1 in screeded bedding layer of coarse concrete sand. Do not use fine "play" sand.
Related calculators & guides
Estimates only. Results assume standard materials and simple shapes. Supplier products vary, and the final call on quantity, structure and safety is yours. Check your local code and your supplier's guidance before ordering.