How to use this calculator
Start by entering the length and width of your planned patio in feet and inches. If your patio is an irregular shape, calculate each rectangular section separately and add the results together for a combined materials list.
Next, choose the paver size that matches what you plan to buy. The four presets cover the most common sizes sold at home improvement stores. If your paver has different dimensions, select the custom option and enter the width and length in inches.
Pick your laying pattern from the four options. The calculator automatically adjusts the waste factor when you choose herringbone, adding 5 percent on top of your base waste setting. You can also manually adjust the waste percentage and paver thickness to match your specific product.
Results update instantly as you type. You will see the total paver count, all base and sand materials, and a three tier cost breakdown showing budget, mid range, and premium pricing so you can compare options at a glance.
Laying patterns and when to use them
Running bond is the simplest and most popular pattern. Each row of pavers is offset by half a paver from the row below it, similar to how bricks are laid on a wall. This pattern is easy to install, produces minimal waste, and works well with rectangular pavers of any size. It is a good all around choice for patios, walkways, and pool decks.
Herringbone arranges pavers at 45 or 90 degree angles to form a zigzag pattern. This is the strongest layout for areas that will carry vehicle traffic or heavy loads because the interlocking angles resist lateral shifting. The trade off is higher waste from angled cuts along the edges and a longer installation time.
Basketweave alternates pairs of pavers in horizontal and vertical orientations to create a woven appearance. This classic pattern works best with rectangular pavers and gives the patio a traditional look. Waste is comparable to running bond because most cuts are straight.
Soldier course border uses a row of pavers stood upright around the perimeter to frame the field pattern. It adds a clean visual edge and can help transition between the patio and the surrounding landscape. Soldier borders are typically combined with one of the other three field patterns.
Preparing the base
A solid base is the single most important factor in how long your paver patio will last. Six inches of compacted gravel provides the structural support that keeps pavers from shifting, sinking, or heaving through freeze thaw cycles. Skipping or skimping on the base is the most common reason DIY patios develop uneven spots within the first year or two.
Use processed gravel (sometimes labeled as road base or crusher run) rather than round river rock. The angular edges of crushed stone lock together when compacted, creating a stable surface that resists movement. Round stones roll against each other and never truly lock in place, no matter how much you compact them.
Spread the gravel in thin lifts of about 2 inches at a time and run a plate compactor over each lift before adding the next layer. After compacting all six inches of gravel, add one inch of coarse bedding sand on top. Screed the sand flat using two pipes as rails and a straight board pulled across them. This sand layer fills small voids in the gravel surface and gives you a perfectly level bed for setting the pavers.
Frequently asked questions
How many pavers do I need for a patio?
Divide your patio area in square feet by the face area of one paver in square feet. For example, a 200 square foot patio using 6 by 6 inch pavers (0.25 sq ft each) needs 800 pavers before waste. Add 10 percent for cuts and breakage, bringing the total to 880 pavers. Herringbone and diagonal patterns require an extra 5 percent because more edge cuts are involved.
How deep should the gravel base be for a paver patio?
A 6 inch deep compacted gravel base is the standard recommendation for residential paver patios in most soil conditions. In areas with heavy clay soil or freeze thaw cycles, some contractors recommend increasing the base depth to 8 or even 10 inches. On top of the gravel, add 1 inch of leveling sand before placing the pavers.
Does the laying pattern affect how many pavers I need?
Yes. Herringbone and diagonal patterns create more angled cuts along the edges, which increases waste by about 5 percent compared to a running bond or basketweave. A running bond pattern typically needs only 10 percent waste factor, while herringbone should use 15 percent. The total number of pavers covering the same area is the same, but you will discard more partial cuts.
What does a paver patio cost per square foot?
DIY paver patios typically cost $3 to $12 per square foot in materials depending on the paver quality. Budget concrete pavers run about $0.50 each, mid range tumbled pavers cost around $2 each, and premium natural stone or porcelain pavers can reach $5 or more each. On top of the pavers, expect to spend roughly $1 to $2 per square foot on base gravel, sand, polymeric sand, and edge restraint.
Related calculators
This calculator provides material estimates for planning purposes only. Actual quantities may vary based on paver brand, site conditions, soil type, and local climate. Always verify measurements on site before purchasing materials. For patios adjacent to structures, check local building codes for setback and drainage requirements. DoubtCalc is not responsible for material shortages, installation issues, or drainage problems resulting from use of this calculator.