Free Paver Calculator
Quickly estimate the number of pavers needed for your patio, walkway, or driveway project. Our calculator helps you determine material quantities, costs, and layout options.
🧱 Step 1: Select Your Paver Type
Standard Brick Paver
4" × 8" (Most common)
Square Paver
6" × 6"
Large Rectangle
6" × 9"
Custom Size
Enter dimensions
🔄 Step 2: Choose Your Pattern
Running Bond
Classic brick pattern
Herringbone
45° or 90° angles
Basket Weave
Alternating pairs
Random/Ashlar
Mixed sizes
📏 Step 3: Enter Your Project Dimensions
Calculation Results
👁️ Paver Layout Visualization
This visualization shows how your selected pavers will look in the chosen pattern:
💡 Pro Tip
Different patterns require different amounts of cutting. Herringbone patterns typically require more cuts along the edges, increasing your waste factor. Running bond patterns are more efficient and require fewer cuts.
📝 How to Use This Paver Calculator
- Select your paver type from the common options or enter custom dimensions
- Choose your preferred pattern (running bond, herringbone, basket weave, or random)
- Select your preferred unit system (Imperial or Metric)
- Choose the shape of your area and enter the dimensions
- Specify the joint width between pavers
- Select a waste factor appropriate for your project complexity
- Enter the price per paver to calculate total cost
- Click "Calculate" to get your results
The calculator will provide the total number of pavers needed, amount of sand required, and estimated cost for your project.
⚠️ Important Note
This calculator provides estimates only. For large or complex projects, it's recommended to consult with a professional contractor to determine exact requirements based on site conditions and specific materials.
🧱 Paver Types and Patterns
Common Paver Types
Standard Brick Pavers
Dimensions: 4" × 8" × 2.25"
Best for: Walkways, patios, traditional looks
Properties: Durable, classic appearance, versatile for patterns
Square Pavers
Dimensions: 6" × 6" × 2.25"
Best for: Modern designs, grid patterns
Properties: Clean lines, contemporary look, easy installation
Large Rectangle Pavers
Dimensions: 6" × 9" × 2.25"
Best for: Driveways, large patios
Properties: Substantial appearance, fewer pieces needed, good for high-traffic areas
Permeable Pavers
Dimensions: Various
Best for: Eco-friendly projects, areas with drainage concerns
Properties: Allow water infiltration, reduce runoff, environmentally sustainable
Popular Paver Patterns
Pattern | Description | Difficulty | Waste Factor |
---|---|---|---|
Running Bond | Classic brick pattern with offset rows | Easy | 5-10% |
Herringbone | Zigzag pattern at 45° or 90° angles | Moderate | 10-15% |
Basket Weave | Alternating pairs of pavers | Easy | 5-10% |
Random/Ashlar | Mixed sizes in a repeating pattern | Difficult | 15-20% |
Circular | Radiating pattern from center point | Very Difficult | 20-25% |
💡 Pattern Selection Tip
For driveways and high-traffic areas, herringbone patterns provide the best structural integrity and load distribution. For patios and walkways, any pattern works well, so you can choose based on aesthetic preference.
🚧 Installation Guide
Materials Needed
- ✓ Pavers (calculated amount plus waste factor)
- ✓ Base material (crushed stone/gravel) - 4-6" depth
- ✓ Bedding sand - 1" depth
- ✓ Jointing sand - for filling gaps between pavers
- ✓ Edge restraints - to prevent pavers from shifting
- ✓ Landscape fabric (optional) - to prevent weed growth
Tools Needed
- ✓ Shovel and rake for excavation and leveling
- ✓ Tamper (hand or powered) for compacting
- ✓ Level to ensure proper slope for drainage
- ✓ String line and stakes for marking boundaries
- ✓ Rubber mallet for setting pavers
- ✓ Wet saw or paver splitter for cutting pavers
- ✓ Broom for spreading jointing sand
Installation Steps
- Plan and mark your area using stakes and string
- Excavate the area to a depth of 7-9" for patios/walkways or 9-12" for driveways
- Add and compact a 4-6" layer of base material (crushed stone/gravel)
- Add a 1" layer of bedding sand and level it
- Install edge restraints around the perimeter
- Lay pavers in your chosen pattern, starting from a corner or edge
- Cut pavers as needed for edges and obstacles
- Compact the pavers using a plate compactor with a rubber mat
- Spread jointing sand over the surface and sweep into joints
- Mist the surface with water to settle the sand
- Apply sealer (optional) after 2-3 days
⚠️ Important Note
Always ensure proper drainage by creating a slight slope away from buildings (about 1/4" per foot). This prevents water pooling and potential damage to your paver installation and adjacent structures.