Calculator
Formula used
1) Compute project area based on the selected shape. Rectangle: Area = Length × Width. Circle: Area = π × Radius². Custom: use your entered area.
2) Convert paver size and joint gap to consistent units. Effective coverage includes joint spacing: Effective Length = Paver Length + Gap, Effective Width = Paver Width + Gap.
3) Paver count: Raw Count = Project Area ÷ Effective Paver Area. Apply waste: Total = ceil(Raw Count × (1 + Waste%)). Boxes: Boxes = ceil(Total ÷ Pavers per box). Optional volumes: Volume = Area × Depth.
How to use this calculator
- Select your unit system and area shape.
- Enter dimensions for the chosen shape, or enter a custom area.
- Enter paver length and width, plus the joint gap in millimeters.
- Set a waste percentage for cuts, breakage, and spares.
- Add pavers per box to estimate how many boxes to purchase.
- Enable base estimates if you want base and bedding volumes.
- Press Calculate to view results above the form.
- Use CSV or PDF buttons to export your result summary.
Example data table
| Scenario | Inputs | Outputs (example) |
|---|---|---|
| Rectangle patio | 12 ft × 10 ft area, pavers 8 in × 4 in, 3 mm joints, waste 8%, 100 per box, base 4 in, bedding 1 in. | Area ≈ 120 sq ft, pavers ≈ 540, boxes ≈ 6, base and bedding volumes shown after calculation. |
| Circular pad | Radius 6 ft, pavers 20 cm × 10 cm, 4 mm joints, waste 10%, 80 per box, base off. | Area ≈ 113.10 sq ft, pavers and boxes depend on settings. |
| Measured area | Custom area 18 m², pavers 10 cm × 10 cm, 2 mm joints, waste 5%, 200 per box, base 10 cm, bedding 3 cm. | Pavers and material volumes computed from your entries. |
Measurement and layout assumptions
Start with a reliable project area. For rectangles, measure finished edge to edge after setting string lines. Measure inside the planned edge restraints, not the excavation width. For circles, confirm the true radius from the center stake. For irregular spaces, break the footprint into simple shapes, add them, then confirm with a tape or wheel before ordering.
Joint spacing and effective coverage
Brick pavers do not cover their face size once joints are included. This calculator adds the joint gap to both paver dimensions to model a repeating grid. Wider joints reduce required pavers slightly, while tight joints increase counts. Remember that many pavers have chamfers and slight size tolerances. When laying herringbone or running bond, keep the same gap but expect more perimeter cuts.
Waste planning for cuts and breakage
Waste is not optional. Border cuts, pattern alignment, and future repairs require extras. A straight stack bond on a simple patio often needs 5–7% waste. Curves, inlays, and herringbone commonly need 8–12%. Steep slopes, narrow strips, or mixed sizes can push waste toward 15%. If the project borders lawns or beds, add a few spare pavers for later settlement repairs and color matching after weathering in your yard.
Packaging, pallets, and purchasing control
Ordering by box or pallet reduces shortages. Enter pavers per box to get a rounded estimate, then compare it with the supplier’s published coverage per package. If you mix colors or sizes, order each SKU separately and keep batch numbers consistent. Always round up, because partial boxes still cost time and freight.
Base layers, bedding, and jobsite checks
Base and bedding volumes help you stage materials. Multiply area by compacted base depth for granular base, then add bedding thickness for sand or screenings. Allow extra for compaction and uneven subgrade. Before installation, check slope for drainage, confirm edge restraint locations, and dry-lay a small test to verify joint width. Track deliveries, store pavers flat, and keep sand dry.
FAQs
What joint gap should I use?
Use the gap recommended by your paver manufacturer or spacers. Many residential pavers work well at 2–6 mm. Larger joints can look rustic and accept more jointing sand, while tight joints require better alignment and consistent sizing.
Does the calculator work for herringbone patterns?
Yes. The area-based count is still useful, but herringbone usually increases cutting at borders. Use a higher waste percentage, commonly 8–12%, and consider adding extra if the layout has curves, steps, or inlays.
Should I enter nominal or actual paver size?
Use the actual face size of the paver you will install. Some products list nominal sizes that differ slightly from true dimensions. If you are unsure, measure a few pavers from a pack and average the results.
Why are results rounded up?
You cannot purchase fractions of a paver, and partial boxes still have handling cost. Rounding up avoids shortages that can stop work, delay deliveries, or cause color mismatch if you must buy a later batch.
How accurate are base and bedding volumes?
They estimate volume from area × depth. Real sites need extra for compaction, grade corrections, and edge thickening. If your subgrade is uneven or soft, plan a contingency and verify depths with stakes or a laser level.
What if my area is irregular?
Use the custom area option after measuring with a wheel, tape offsets, or a sketch broken into simple shapes. If you have multiple zones, calculate each separately and add the totals for pavers, boxes, and materials.