Inputs
Results
| Field | Value | Unit |
|---|
Example stone sizes and coverage
| Type | Nominal size | Average area | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rectangular paver | 300 × 300 mm (12 × 12 in) | 0.09 m² (0.97 ft²) | Common square paver, simple patterning. |
| Rectangular paver | 200 × 100 mm (8 × 4 in) | 0.02 m² (0.22 ft²) | Often used in herringbone running bonds. |
| Irregular stepping stone | ≈ 350 × 300 mm (14 × 12 in) | ~0.10 m² (1.08 ft²) | Estimate with average area when shapes vary. |
| Round stepping disc | Ø 400 mm (16 in) | 0.13 m² (1.40 ft²) | Use step spacing for walking comfort. |
Stone layout patterns and efficiency
| Pattern | Typical joint width | Cut waste allowance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Running bond | 3–6 mm (1/8–1/4 in) | 5–7% | Fast layout, minimal cuts along straight edges. |
| Herringbone 45° | 3–6 mm (1/8–1/4 in) | 8–12% | Excellent interlock, higher perimeter cutting. |
| Basketweave | 3–6 mm (1/8–1/4 in) | 6–9% | Balanced look, moderate cut complexity. |
| Random irregular | 6–15 mm (1/4–5/8 in) | 10–15% | Natural look; allow larger gaps and shaping. |
Base & bedding depth guide by soil condition
| Soil condition | Base depth | Bedding depth | Typical application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Well‑drained sand/gravel | 75–100 mm (3–4 in) | 25–30 mm (1–1.25 in) | Light foot traffic garden paths. |
| Firm loam | 100–125 mm (4–5 in) | 25–40 mm (1–1.5 in) | General use with carts and wheelbarrows. |
| Soft clay or poor drainage | 125–150 mm (5–6 in) | 30–40 mm (1.25–1.5 in) | Heavier use; consider geotextile separation. |
Formulas used
- Adjusted path area = length × width × (1 + curve% ÷ 100)
- Rectangular stone area = stone_length × stone_width
- Irregular stone area = user average
- Continuous mode stone count = ceil( adjusted_area ÷ stone_area × (1 + waste% ÷ 100) )
- Stepping mode stone count = ceil( (length ÷ step_spacing) × stones_across × (1 + waste% ÷ 100) )
- Base volume = adjusted_area × base_depth
- Bedding volume = adjusted_area × bedding_depth
- Total stone volume = stone_count × stone_area × stone_thickness
- Material weight = volume × density
Joint gaps primarily affect infill volumes and edging, not stone count directly in continuous paving. For stepping layouts, spacing defines rows along the length.
How to use this calculator
- Select your preferred unit system.
- Enter path length and width; add curve allowance if winding.
- Choose installation mode: continuous paving or spaced stepping stones.
- Provide stone size (or average area), thickness, and joint width.
- Set base and bedding depths, densities, and optional prices.
- Press Calculate to populate the results table.
- Export results: Download CSV (server) or Download PDF (browser).
FAQs
Straight paths can use 0–2%. Gentle meanders 3–8%. Tight serpentine layouts might use 10–15% to cover offcuts and geometry.
For continuous paving, joint width slightly changes infill area but not stone count materially. For stepping layouts, use step spacing to control count.
Light garden paths often use 75–150 mm base with 25–40 mm bedding. Adjust for soil, climate, and loads from carts or maintenance.
Typical bulk densities: stone ~2400 kg/m³, base ~2000 kg/m³, sand ~1600 kg/m³. Supplier data may vary, especially for moisture and gradation.
Stepping stones are arranged in rows along the length. Count depends on spacing and number across the width rather than total paved area.
Use 5–10% for simple layouts and rectangular stones. Increase to 10–15% for curves, borders, or irregular pieces.
Enter unit prices for stones and materials. The calculator computes totals, helping compare options and budgets before ordering supplies.
Quick tips
- Comfortable step spacing is 550–700 mm (22–28 in).
- Edge restraints keep pavers locked and joints tight.
- Compact base in thin lifts to reach target density.
- Use a screed for consistent bedding thickness.
Units & conversions
Imperial: lengths in feet (ft) except thickness/Depth in inches (in).