The estimate covers materials only. Excavation, haul-away, plate compactor and saw rental, delivery and labour are extra and are often the larger part of a professionally installed patio.
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
What do pavers cost per square foot?
Concrete pavers alone are often a few dollars per square foot; enter your supplier price to get your figure.
What adds most to the materials cost?
The pavers themselves, followed by the base gravel for deep driveway bases.
Does this include installation?
No, materials only.
Is PaverCalc free?
Yes, with no sign-up or ads.
Are my measurements saved?
Yes, in this browser only.