Paver Calculator

Understanding paver coverage rates ensures accurate material ordering:

Pavers per Square Foot by Size:

Pattern Waste Factors:

Calculation Example: 300 SF patio using 4×8" pavers in herringbone pattern:

Base pavers: 300 SF × 4.5 = 1,350 pavers
Add 10% waste: 1,350 × 1.10 = 1,485 pavers
Pallets needed: 1,485 ÷ 486 = 3.05 → 4 pallets

A proper base is critical for paver longevity—skimping here causes settling and failure:

Standard Paver Base System (Pedestrian Use):

1. Gravel/Crusher Run Base (4-6" deep):

Gravel Quantity Formula:

Cubic Yards = (Length × Width × Depth) ÷ 324
Tons = Cubic Yards × 1.4 (typical crusher run)

Example: 300 SF at 4" depth
= (300 × 0.33) ÷ 27 = 3.7 cubic yards
= 3.7 × 1.4 = 5.2 tons

2. Bedding Sand (1" deep):

3. Polymeric Sand (for joints):

4. Edge Restraint:

Linear Feet = Perimeter + 10%
For rectangle: LF = 2(Length + Width) × 1.10
For 300 SF (17.3' × 17.3'): LF = 2(17.3 + 17.3) × 1.10 = 76 LF

Complete Base Materials for 300 SF Patio:

Pattern choice affects aesthetics, structural strength, and installation complexity:

Running Bond (Brick Pattern):

• Easiest pattern for beginners
• Pavers offset by half length each row
• Lowest waste factor (5%)
• Can run parallel or perpendicular to longest edge
• Suitable for walkways, patios, borders

Herringbone 45°:

• Strongest interlock pattern
• Best for driveways and high-traffic areas
• Prevents lateral shifting under vehicle loads
• Highest waste factor (12-15%)
• More difficult to install
• Creates dynamic visual effect

Herringbone 90°:

• Good interlock, easier than 45°
• Moderate waste factor (10%)
• Better for rectangular areas
• Less dramatic visual than 45°
• Good balance of strength and ease

Basketweave:

• Pairs of pavers at 90° angles
• Traditional, classic appearance
• Moderate complexity (8% waste)
• Works best with 4×8" pavers
• Not recommended for vehicle traffic

Stack Bond:

• Grid pattern, pavers aligned
• Modern, contemporary look
• Weakest structural interlock
• For patios and decorative areas only
• NOT for driveways

Pattern Strength Comparison:

Pattern Selection Guide:

Paver material and quality significantly affect project cost and longevity:

Concrete Pavers (Most Common):

Natural Stone Pavers:

Brick Pavers:

Permeable Pavers:

2026 Price Summary (Materials Only):

Includes pavers + base materials; excludes labor

Proper base preparation is 80% of a successful paver installation:

Step 1: Excavation

Excavation Depth = Base + Sand + Paver - Desired Height Above Grade
Example: 4" base + 1" sand + 2.5" paver - 1" above grade = 6.5" dig

Step 2: Grading for Drainage

• Minimum slope: 1/4" per foot (2% grade)
• Slope AWAY from structures
• Plan for runoff destination
• Consider catch basins for large areas

Step 3: Compaction

Plate Compactor Rental (2026):

• 4-hour rental: $40-60
• Daily rental: $60-90
• Weekend: $80-120

Step 4: Landscape Fabric

• Install on compacted subgrade
• Overlap seams 6-12"
• Prevents soil migration into base
• Optional but recommended

Step 5: Gravel Base Installation

1. Add gravel in 2" lifts (maximum)
2. Compact each lift before adding more
3. Check grade with string line or laser
4. Final grade should be 1" below finished elevation

Step 6: Bedding Sand

1. Install 1" screed pipes at proper elevation
2. Fill between pipes with sand
3. Screed level using straight edge
4. Remove pipes, fill voids
5. Do NOT compact bedding sand before pavers

Common Base Mistakes:

Edge restraints prevent pavers from shifting—they're essential, not optional:

Why Edge Restraints Are Critical:

• Contain horizontal forces from foot/vehicle traffic
• Prevent pavers from creeping outward
• Maintain tight joint spacing
• Required for all paver installations

Edge Restraint Types:

Installation Methods:

Plastic Edging (Most Common):

1. Position edging tight against pavers
2. Drive 10" spikes through holes every 12"
3. Spikes penetrate into gravel base
4. Connect sections with provided couplers
5. Cut curves by scoring and bending

Aluminum Edging:

1. Stake placement every 12-18"
2. Attach edging to stakes with screws
3. Provides cleaner, more rigid edge
4. Better for straight runs
5. More expensive but longer lasting

Concrete Edge:

1. Form and pour after pavers installed
2. Hide with soil and plants
3. Most permanent solution
4. Best for driveways

Quantity Calculation:

Edging (LF) = Perimeter × 1.10 (waste)

Rectangle: Perimeter = 2(L + W)
Circle: Perimeter = π × Diameter
Irregular: Measure actual perimeter

Example: 15' × 20' patio
Perimeter = 2(15 + 20) = 70 LF
With waste: 70 × 1.10 = 77 LF edging

Spike Requirements:

• 1 spike per 12" of edging
• 77 LF edging = 77 spikes minimum
• Order 10% extra for rocky soil

Polymeric sand locks pavers together and prevents weeds—critical for longevity:

What Is Polymeric Sand?

• Sand with polymer binders
• Hardens when activated with water
• Fills joints, locks pavers together
• Prevents weed growth and insect intrusion
• Resists erosion from rain and irrigation

Polymeric Sand vs. Regular Sand:

Coverage Rates (per 50 lb bag):

Application Steps:

1. Ensure pavers are completely dry (24-48 hours after rain)
2. Sweep sand into joints, filling completely
3. Use plate compactor to settle sand into joints
4. Sweep more sand to refill
5. Remove ALL excess sand from paver surfaces
6. Mist with water to activate polymers
7. Apply additional light misting after 3-4 minutes
8. Keep dry for 24 hours minimum

Common Polymeric Sand Mistakes:

2026 Polymeric Sand Pricing:

Understanding the true costs helps you make an informed decision:

DIY Installation Costs (Materials Only):

Tool/Equipment Needs:

Professional Installation Costs (2026):

DIY Time Investment:

When to Hire a Professional:

• Complex patterns (herringbone, curves)
• Driveway projects (structural requirements)
• Time constraints
• Limited physical ability
• Permits required (check local codes)
• Drainage challenges

Proper maintenance extends paver life and preserves appearance:

Regular Maintenance Schedule:

Polymeric Sand Replacement:

• Inspect joints annually
• Reapply when joints lose 1/4" or more
• Typically needed every 8-15 years
• Partial repairs possible for damaged areas

Stain Removal:

Pressure Washing Guidelines:

• Maximum 1500-2000 PSI
• Use wide fan tip (25° or 40°)
• Keep wand 12"+ from surface
• May remove polymeric sand (reapply after)
• Avoid high pressure on old/soft pavers

Sealing Pavers:

Expected Lifespan: