| Scenario | Path size | Paver size | Gap | Waste | Estimated pavers | Base volume | Sand volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Home garden walkway | 10 m × 1 m | 20 cm × 10 cm | 3 mm | 7% | ~ 539 | ~ 1.10 m³ | ~ 0.32 m³ |
| Side yard path | 25 ft × 3 ft | 8 in × 4 in | 1/8 in | 10% | ~ 338 | ~ 9.4 ft³ | ~ 2.8 ft³ |
Base pavers = Area ÷ Effective paver area (rounded up)
Total pavers = Base pavers × (1 + Waste%)
Base and sand are calculated separately using their depths.
Excavation depth = Base + Sand + Paver thickness
- Measure the pathway length and average width.
- Select the unit system and paver dimensions.
- Pick a pattern, then accept or customize waste factor.
- Enter base and sand depths for your soil conditions.
- Add costs only if you want a price estimate.
- Press Calculate to view results and downloads.
Material Quantities You Can Trust
Accurate planning starts with pathway area. This calculator multiplies length and width, then translates that area into paver count, base volume, and bedding sand volume. It also accounts for compaction allowance, so a 10% base allowance means you order roughly 1.10 times the loose material volume. For many garden paths, that prevents short deliveries and uneven settlement after plate compaction. Record outputs in CSV to share with suppliers and crews easily.
Waste Factors by Pattern
Cutting losses vary with layout. A simple running bond often needs about 5% extra pavers, while basketweave commonly sits near 7%. Herringbone typically needs 10% because edge cuts are frequent, especially on narrow paths and curves. If your pathway has multiple turns or a tight radius, raising waste to 12–15% can better match field reality.
Base and Bedding Layer Targets
Depth drives performance. A 75–150 mm crushed base is common for pedestrian use, with thicker bases recommended for soft soils or freeze–thaw zones. Bedding sand is usually 25–40 mm to allow screeding and minor leveling without creating a spongy layer. Entering realistic depths produces better excavation estimates and helps you confirm that finished grade will meet surrounding lawn or edging lines.
Edging, Excavation, and Weight Planning
Edge restraint keeps pavers tight and joints stable. Select “sides” for straight runs, or “perimeter” for full containment around patios or widened landings. Excavation depth is base plus sand plus paver thickness, reported in meters for consistency. Optional density inputs estimate haul weight; for example, base around 1600 kg/m³ and sand around 1500 kg/m³ provide practical transport expectations.
Cost Scenarios and Sensitivity Checks
Costs are calculated from your unit pricing, then summarized with delivery and tax. Because pavers dominate many budgets, a small change in unit price can shift totals quickly. Compare two paver price points and adjust labor per area to reflect DIY versus contractor installation. If totals feel low, review waste percent, edging length, and compaction allowance before ordering materials.
What measurements should I take for a curved path?
Break curves into short straight segments, measure each length, and use an average width. Add areas together, then enter an equivalent length and width that matches the same total area. Increase waste slightly for extra cuts.
Should I include joint gap if I’m using polymeric sand?
Yes. Joint width affects paver count in a small way and helps estimate realistic layout density. Whether you fill with polymeric sand or fine sand, enter the average planned gap so results stay consistent.
How do I choose base depth for my soil?
Firm, well-drained soil may work with 75–100 mm for foot traffic. Soft clay, wet ground, or frost-prone areas usually need 125–150 mm or more. When unsure, choose the higher depth and compact in lifts.
Why does the calculator add compaction allowance?
Loose aggregate and sand shrink when compacted. The allowance increases ordered volume so the compacted layer reaches the target depth without running short. Typical allowances are 5% for sand and 10% for base, adjusted by material quality.
Do edging costs matter for small paths?
They can. Edging is priced per length and adds up on long walkways. It also protects your investment by preventing lateral spread, joint opening, and trip edges. If you skip edging, consider a concrete curb or buried restraint.
Can I use this for stepping-stone spacing?
Use it for material layers and cost planning, but paver count will overestimate if stones are spaced apart. Enter the total paved area only, excluding gaps. For spaced stones, compute stone coverage area from stone footprint times quantity.