Paver Sand and Gravel Calculator

Explanation

Paver installations typically consist of multiple layers: compacted gravel base for load distribution, a bedding sand layer for leveling, and the pavers themselves. Accurate material estimation starts with the surface area of the patio or walkway and the thickness of each layer. This calculator uses area and depth inputs to compute base and sand volume, then estimates paver counts from the paver dimensions. A waste factor helps account for cuts, edge trimming, and breakage during installation.

For paver counts, the tool converts the paver length and width into a face area and divides the total area by that face area. The result is rounded up and adjusted by the waste factor. For base and bedding materials, the calculator multiplies area by the depth of each layer to get volume. Volumes are reported in cubic yards or cubic meters, with typical tonnage approximations using standard bulk densities. Gravel is often estimated at about 1.5 tons per cubic yard and sand at about 1.35 tons per cubic yard, but your supplier may provide more accurate values for local materials.

This estimator assumes uniform depth and does not include edge restraint, joint sand, or geotextile fabric. Those items should be calculated separately. For load bearing patios and driveways, base depth and material type should follow local specifications and soil conditions. Use this tool as a planning baseline, then verify with a site assessment and supplier recommendations to ensure long-term performance.

For sloped surfaces, you can estimate area from the plan view and still use the same depth values, since base and sand are installed perpendicular to gravity. If you are installing a permeable system, the base aggregate and bedding materials differ from traditional dense graded base, and the density assumptions in this calculator should be adjusted. Always confirm material gradation with your supplier.

Formula

Paver count: count = area / (paverLength x paverWidth)

Base volume: Vbase = area x baseDepth

Sand volume: Vsand = area x beddingDepth

Tonnage: tons = volume x density

Example Calculation

A 200 sq ft patio with 4x8 in pavers, a 6 inch gravel base, and 1 inch bedding sand yields about 900 pavers. Gravel volume is about 3.7 cubic yards (roughly 5.5 tons), and sand volume is about 0.6 cubic yards.

FAQs

Do I need to account for joint spacing?

Yes. The calculator assumes tight layout. Add waste or adjust paver size for wider joints.

What base depth should I use for a driveway?

Driveways often require deeper bases, typically 8 to 12 inches, depending on soil and load.

How accurate is the tonnage estimate?

Tonnage depends on local material density. Use supplier data for final orders.

Should I add extra pavers?

Yes. Use the waste factor to cover cuts and future repairs.

Does this include edge restraint?

No. Edge restraint and joint sand should be planned separately.

How it works

This tool calculates paver count and layer volumes from area and thickness inputs, with optional tonnage conversions. All calculations run client-side.

Disclaimer

Results are estimates. Verify base depth, compaction, and drainage requirements for your site conditions.