Build a patio budget using flexible material inputs. Compare stone, base, sand, edging, and sealer costs. Tune thickness, waste, and delivery for realistic totals.
Meta description word count: 25 | Tagline word count: 24
| Example patio | Value |
|---|---|
| Shape | Rectangle |
| Size | 12 ft × 10 ft |
| Area | 120.00 sq ft |
| Waste | 10% |
| Stone thickness | 1.5 in |
| Base thickness | 4 in |
| Bedding sand | 1 in |
| Stone price | $11.50 per sq ft |
Use this example to verify the calculator’s output and adjust pricing for your area.
Flagstone patios look natural, but small estimating errors can cause delays. Ordering short on stone or base can stop work mid‑layout, while overbuying ties up budget and creates heavy leftovers. A structured takeoff improves planning and reduces extra delivery runs.
Start with accurate dimensions. Rectangles use length × width, circles use π × (diameter/2)², and irregular patios can be entered as custom area. Perimeter is important because edging and restraint products are priced by linear length. For complex outlines, measure segments and sum them.
Waste accounts for trimming, breakage, and shape variation. For random‑pattern flagstone, 8–15% is common; tight curves, diagonal patterns, and mixed sizes can push waste higher. This calculator applies waste to stone coverage so purchase quantity matches field cutting needs.
Thickness affects stability and cost. Convert thickness from inches to feet, then volume = area × thickness. Weight is volume × density, with many stones near 150–170 lb/ft³. Weight estimates support delivery planning and allow pricing by ton when suppliers quote bulk rates.
A compacted crushed‑stone base improves drainage and load capacity. Typical base thickness is 3–6 inches depending on soil and climate. Bedding sand (often about 1 inch) supports leveling. The calculator converts layer thickness to cubic yards using ft³ ÷ 27, matching bulk aggregate sales.
Jointing sand or polymeric sand reduces shifting and discourages weeds. Edging creates lateral restraint that preserves alignment, especially on gentle slopes. Geotextile fabric can separate soil from base material to reduce settling in soft subgrades. Toggle options to see their impact on totals.
Sealer can enhance color and help resist staining, but coverage varies by product and porosity. Using coverage in square feet per gallon and the number of coats, the calculator estimates gallons and cost. Add delivery fees and a misc allowance for rentals or small consumables.
Use the results as a purchasing checklist: stone quantity, base and sand in cubic yards, joint sand bags, edging length, and optional sealer. Compare the cost per square foot to local installed rates to validate budget. Accurate inputs produce reliable totals for procurement.
Most projects use 8–15% for random flagstone. Increase waste for tight curves, complex borders, or smaller pieces that require more trimming. If you are matching colors or thickness, consider adding a few extra percent.
Use per square foot when your supplier sells by coverage. Use per ton when buying bulk pallets or loose stone. The calculator estimates tonnage from thickness and density so you can compare both pricing methods quickly.
Common compacted base thickness is 3–6 inches. Softer soils, heavy furniture, or freeze‑thaw climates often need more base. Always compact in lifts and confirm local practices if drainage or subgrade conditions are challenging.
Perimeter drives edging cost and helps estimate restraint needs. Even if you skip edging, perimeter is useful for planning borders, curbs, or soldier courses. Accurate perimeter measurements reduce shortages and avoid awkward splice joints.
Not always. Fabric is most helpful where clay, silt, or soft soils can mix into the base. It can reduce pumping and settlement over time. Well‑draining granular soils may perform fine without it.
Use the bag coverage rating provided by the manufacturer and divide patio area by that coverage. Bag usage varies with joint width and depth. Wider joints or thicker stone can increase sand demand beyond label estimates.
It is a strong budgeting metric for materials, but it excludes labor, equipment, and excavation disposal unless you add them to misc allowance. Use it to compare design options and validate supplier quotes before purchasing.
Accurate estimates help you build patios with confidence always.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.