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Gardenly3D

Paver & Patio Calculator

Enter your patio or walkway dimensions to estimate the number of pavers, plus sand and gravel base material needed, with a 10% waste factor built in. Results are approximate and intended for planning purposes only; always confirm final quantities with your supplier or a professional before ordering.

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10 ft10 ft6" × 6" pavers

Results

Total Area
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Pavers Needed (incl. 10% waste)
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Sand — 1" Leveling Base
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Gravel — 4" Compacted Base
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How to Calculate Pavers for a Patio

  1. 1

    Measure the patio area

    Measure the length and width of your patio or walkway in feet. For irregular shapes, divide into rectangles and add the areas together.

  2. 2

    Choose your paver size

    Select a standard paver size or enter custom dimensions. Larger pavers mean fewer units but may require more cutting at edges.

  3. 3

    Review the materials list

    The calculator provides paver count (with 10% waste), plus sand and gravel base quantities needed for a proper installation.

  4. 4

    Order your materials

    Order all materials at once to avoid project delays. It's better to have a few extra pavers than to run short.

Pro Tips

  • Always add 10% extra pavers for cuts, breakage, and future replacements — our calculator includes this automatically.
  • A proper base is critical: use 4-6 inches of compacted gravel topped with 1 inch of leveling sand.
  • Edge restraints are essential — without them, pavers will shift and separate over time.
  • Polymeric sand between joints prevents weed growth and locks pavers together.
  • For driveways, use a thicker gravel base (8-12 inches) to handle vehicle weight.
  • Lay pavers in a herringbone or running bond pattern for maximum interlock strength.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many pavers do I need per square foot?
It depends on paver size. Standard 4×8 inch brick pavers need about 4.5 per square foot. 12×12 inch pavers need 1 per square foot. Our calculator handles all sizes automatically.
How much sand do I need under pavers?
Plan for a 1-inch layer of leveling sand over the gravel base. For a 100 sq ft patio, that's about 0.31 cubic yards or 8.3 cubic feet of sand.
How thick should the gravel base be?
For walkways and patios, 4-6 inches of compacted gravel is standard. For driveways, use 8-12 inches. Our calculator uses 4 inches as a default base thickness.
Should I add extra pavers for waste?
Yes — plan for 10% extra to cover cuts, breakage, and future repairs. Diagonal or herringbone patterns may need up to 15% extra due to more edge cuts.
Can I lay pavers on dirt?
It's not recommended. Without a proper gravel and sand base, pavers will shift, sink, and become uneven within a season. The base provides drainage and a stable foundation.

Results are approximate and intended for planning purposes only. Material densities, coverage rates, and quantities are estimates that may vary based on actual conditions, product specifications, and installation methods. Always consult a professional for final specifications.

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