Formula used
How to use this calculator
- Pick units and select a rectangle or L-shape layout.
- Enter the paved dimensions, then add any cutouts.
- Set paver size, joint width, and waste allowance.
- Choose base and sand depths for your build plan.
- Click Calculate to see counts and volumes.
- Download the report as CSV or PDF if needed.
Example data table
| Scenario | Layout | Paver | Joint | Waste | Net area | Pavers needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small grill zone | 12 ft × 8 ft | 12×12 in | 0.25 in | 8% | 96.00 sq ft | ~111 pieces |
| L-shape prep + dining | (10×8) + (8×6) ft | 8×16 in | 0.25 in | 10% | 128.00 sq ft | ~139 pieces |
| Metric patio corner | 3.6 m × 2.4 m | 30×30 cm | 6 mm | 8% | 8.64 m² | ~104 pieces |
Measurement and layout accuracy
Outdoor kitchen patios often wrap around grills, sinks, and storage runs that create offsets. Measure each paved leg to the nearest 1/4 inch or 5 mm, then pick Rectangle or L-shape. If two rectangles overlap, measure the paved outline instead of double counting. Use cutouts to remove islands, appliance pads, or planting pockets so the net area reflects real coverage.
Paver size, joints, and coverage
The calculator converts your paver face size into a coverage rate that includes joint width . Increasing joint width raises coverage per unit and can lower the piece count but it also changes the visual grid and the amount of jointing material required. Enter the same spacer value you will use onsite, and keep orientation consistent for rectangular units.
Waste allowance and ordering strategy
Waste covers cutting loss, breakage, and future repairs. Straight running bonds typically perform well at 5–8%, while diagonal patterns, borders, and tight corners can justify 10–12%. For mixed colors or blended pallets, order the full quantity at once to avoid shade differences. If your plan includes many appliance cutouts, consider adding a small buffer beyond the waste setting.
Base and bedding sand volumes
Material volumes are derived from net area and selected depths. Base aggregate supports loads, improves drainage, and reduces settlement under heavy cooking equipment. Bedding sand provides leveling and helps lock pavers into plane. The optional compaction factor increases delivery volume to account for voids and densification during plate compaction. Verify depth ranges with soil conditions, frost risk, and the desired finished height at thresholds.
Edges, borders, and reporting outputs
Perimeter is reported to help plan edge restraint length, spikes, and corner pieces. When a border band is enabled, the tool estimates a perimeter strip area using your chosen width, then separates it from the field area for counting. Export CSV for supplier quotes and or generate a PDF summary for onsite checks during excavation, screeding, and sweep-in of jointing sand.
FAQs
How do I choose a realistic waste percentage?
Use 8% for simple rectangles. Choose 10–12% for diagonal patterns, many corners, or small units. Keep extra pieces if replacements may be hard to match later.
What should I enter for joint width?
Enter the spacer or specification you will install. Typical joints are 1/8–3/8 inch or 3–10 mm. Wider joints reduce piece count a bit but increase jointing material and separation.
Does the border band change the paver count?
Yes. When enabled, the calculator estimates a perimeter strip area and includes it in the count. It assumes the same unit size for the band, so specialty border pieces should be estimated separately.
How do cutouts work for outdoor kitchens?
Cutouts subtract rectangular areas you will not pave, such as island bases, utility pads, or planter openings. Enter footprint dimensions, and the tool reduces net area before counting pieces and volumes.
Why use a compaction factor for base and sand?
Loose aggregate and sand shrink when compacted. A factor like 1.10 adds about 10% volume so deliveries match the compacted thickness you need after compaction and screeding.
Can I rely on the PDF for procurement?
Use it as a planning snapshot. Confirm packaging quantities, pallet coverage, and local depth guidance. Field slope, edging details, and subgrade conditions can change the final order slightly.