Crushed gravel base weighs roughly 1.4 tons per cubic yard; your supplier can tell you the figure for their material.
How the paver calculator works
PaverCalc finds the area of the rectangle (length × width), circle (π × radius²) or the area you enter, then multiplies it by the pavers per square foot, 144 ÷ ((paver length + joint) × (paver width + joint)), and adds your waste allowance, rounding up to whole pavers.
The base area is the paver area extended by the base extension on every side. Base volume = base area × depth, plus the compaction allowance, converted to tons with the density you set. Bedding sand = paver area × sand depth. Joint sand bags = area ÷ coverage per bag. Edge restraint = the perimeter.
Pavers per square foot
| Paver (inches) | Pavers per sq ft | Sq ft per paver |
|---|---|---|
| 4×8 brick paver | 4.5 | 0.22 |
| 6×6 | 4 | 0.25 |
| 6×9 | 2.67 | 0.38 |
| 6×12 | 2 | 0.5 |
| 12×12 | 1 | 1 |
| 12×24 | 0.5 | 2 |
| 16×16 | 0.56 | 1.78 |
| 24×24 | 0.25 | 4 |
Typical layers (ICPI guidance)
| Layer | Patio / walkway | Driveway |
|---|---|---|
| Compacted aggregate base | 4″ minimum | 6″ minimum |
| Bedding sand | 1″ nominal | 1″ nominal |
| Paver thickness | 2⅜″ (60 mm) or more | 2⅜″ (60 mm) or more; herringbone pattern |
| Base past the edges | 6″ or more | 6″ or more |
Base and sand guidance from the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI) for well-drained soils; use a thicker base on clay, wet or frost-prone ground. Densities (about 1.4 tons/yd³ for crushed base, 1.3 for sand) and joint-sand coverage are typical figures, so results are estimates: confirm with your supplier and the bag label, and call 811 (US) before you dig.
Frequently asked questions
How much base do I need for a 10 × 10 patio?
At 4 inches with a 6-inch extension and 20% for compaction, about 1.8 cubic yards or 2.5 tons of gravel.
Why add extra for compaction?
Loose gravel shrinks when it is compacted, so you need more loose material than the finished depth suggests. 15–25% is a common allowance.
What gravel is used for a paver base?
A well-graded crushed stone (often called road base, crusher run or ¾-inch minus) that compacts hard. Avoid round pea gravel.
Is PaverCalc free?
Yes, with no sign-up or ads.
Are my measurements saved?
Yes, in this browser only.