This paver calculator works out how many pavers you need to cover a patio or path. You enter the length and width of the area in feet, then the length and width of one paver in inches. The tool divides the area by the size of one paver to give a count. It also estimates the gravel base and bedding sand. Enter the depth you plan for each layer in inches, and the calculator shows the volume in cubic yards so you know how much material to order.
Before you start, measure the space in a few places and use the longest and widest readings if the edges are not straight. Check the paver size on the label or measure a loose paver yourself. Small measuring errors add up across many pavers, so careful numbers give a more useful result.
How to use the paver calculator
- Measure the length and width of the patio or path in feet and enter them in the first two boxes.
- Measure one paver's length and width in inches and enter them in the next two boxes.
- Enter an extra percentage for cuts and breakage if you expect to cut pavers around edges. Leave it blank if you do not want an allowance.
- Enter the gravel base depth in inches if you plan a base layer, and the bedding sand depth in inches if you plan a sand layer.
- Read the results for pavers, area, gravel base and bedding sand, then compare them with your plan before you buy materials.
The formula
- Area = length × width (sq ft)
- Pavers = area ÷ (paver length × paver width), with paver sizes in feet
- With the extra: multiply by (1 + extra % ÷ 100), then round up
- Base or sand in cubic feet = area × depth, with lengths in feet (inches ÷ 12)
- Cubic yards = cubic feet ÷ 27 (a cubic yard is 3 ft × 3 ft × 3 ft)
Worked example
The figures below are made up to show the maths. They are not current prices, rates or product figures.
| Length | 12 ft |
|---|---|
| Width | 10 ft |
| Paver length | 8 in |
| Paver width | 4 in |
| Extra for cuts and breakage | 5% |
| Gravel base depth | 4 in |
| Bedding sand depth | 1 in |
- Pavers 567 pavers
- Area 120.0 sq ft
- Gravel base 1.48 cubic yards
- Bedding sand 0.37 cubic yards
Tips for an accurate answer
- Measure twice and write down each figure before you enter it, since a single wrong number changes every result.
- Add an allowance for cuts and breakage, especially if your layout uses curves, corners or borders that need cut pieces.
- Confirm the paver size with the supplier, because nominal and actual sizes can differ slightly.
- Check the depth you intend for the gravel base and bedding sand against your project plan, since the volumes depend directly on those depths.
- Round up when ordering, and ask the supplier whether extra pavers can be returned if you end up with leftovers.
Questions people ask
How does the calculator count the pavers?
It finds the area of your patio or path by multiplying length by width in square feet. It then divides that area by the area of one paver. If you entered an extra percentage for cuts and breakage, the count is increased by that amount before rounding up.
Why are the paver sizes in inches but the area in feet?
The calculator converts the paver size to feet internally so the units match. You only need to enter the numbers as you measure them.
What does the gravel base result mean?
The gravel base result is the volume of crushed stone needed to fill the area to the depth you entered. It is shown in cubic yards, which is the unit most suppliers use for bulk gravel and sand. Compact the base well during installation so it does not settle later.
What is bedding sand and how deep should it be?
Bedding sand is a thin layer of sand that the pavers sit on, and it helps them lie level. The calculator gives the volume for whatever depth you enter. Confirm the depth with your project plan or product instructions before you order.
Can I use the results as a final shopping list?
The results are an estimate based only on the numbers you entered. Actual needs can change with the layout, edge cuts, site conditions and how much material is compacted. Review the figures against your plan, and consider a small extra margin before you buy.
Sources
- 1 foot = 0.3048 metre exactly, so 1 inch (a twelfth of a foot) = 2.54 cm. Source: NIST, Revised unit conversion factors (the international foot).
- 1 yard = 0.9144 metre (3 feet). Source: NIST, NIST Guide to the SI, Appendix B.8: Factors for units listed alphabetically.
An estimate from the numbers you enter, worked out with the formula shown. Check quantities with your supplier before you order. Formulas and examples reviewed 24 Oct 2026. Read the disclaimer