Use the bedding sand only as a thin setting bed. Low spots should be fixed in the compacted base, not filled with extra sand.
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 sand do I need under pavers?
About 1 inch: 100 sq ft takes 0.31 cubic yards, or about 0.4 tons.
How many bags of polymeric sand do I need?
It depends on the joints. A 50 lb bag often covers about 25 to 75 sq ft, less with wide joints or tumbled pavers. Check the coverage chart on the bag.
Can I use play sand under pavers?
No. Use coarse concrete sand (ASTM C33) for bedding; fine sand can wash out and settle.
Is PaverCalc free?
Yes, with no sign-up or ads.
Are my measurements saved?
Yes, in this browser only.