How to Use the Paver Calculator?
Make sure to use this paver calculator before you start working on your patio project! If the question "how many pavers do I need?" has ever crossed your mind, this tool is going to be of invaluable help to you. By providing the pavers cost, you will be able to calculate the total cost of your patio.
The patio paver calculator will also allow you to estimate the perfect amount of materials for your project and will, as a consequence, save you money, as not a single paver will go to waste.
Using the patio paver calculator is very simple. Here's a short set of instructions:
- Determine the area of your patio. Choose whether your patio is a single rectangle or if it has a different shape, in which case divide it into identical rectangles. For a single rectangle, input the length and width. For several identical rectangles, set the number of subareas and the calculator will compute the total area.
Note: If subareas have different sizes, calculate each one separately and sum the results. - Select the paver brick size. Choose one of the standard presets (4"×8", 6"×6", 6"×9", 8"×8", 12"×12", 14"×14", 12"×18") or enter a custom size. The calculator supports both Imperial (inches) and Metric (centimeters) units.
- Set the wastage percentage. We recommend at least 10% extra to account for cuts, breakage, and edge adjustments.
- Calculate costs (optional). Enter the price per paver and, if desired, the installation cost per square foot or square meter. Choose your preferred currency from 16 world currencies.
Common Paver Sizes
The most commonly used paver brick size is 4" × 8" (10 cm × 20 cm in the metric system). However, other sizes are not rare at all.
| Size (in) | Size (cm) | Area (ft²) | Area (cm²) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 × 8 | 10 × 20 | 0.22 | 200 |
| 6 × 6 | 15 × 15 | 0.25 | 225 |
| 6 × 9 | 15 × 23 | 0.38 | 345 |
| 8 × 8 | 20 × 20 | 0.44 | 400 |
| 12 × 12 | 30 × 30 | 1.00 | 900 |
| 14 × 14 | 36 × 36 | 1.36 | 1,296 |
| 12 × 18 | 30 × 46 | 1.50 | 1,380 |
If you need to calculate a brick's volume, the thickness is usually 2" (5 cm). The only exceptions are the 14"×14" and the 12"×18" bricks. In their case, the thickness is typically 3" (7.6 cm) and 1.5" (4 cm), respectively.
Using the Paver Calculator — Example
Let's go through an example using the patio paver calculator together.
John decided to have his patio paved with bricks. Naturally, his first thought was, "How many pavers do I need?" His calculations went as follows:
- John measured the total area of the patio. His patio is a shape resembling a four-armed star, so he divided it into five 15'×15' squares:
Patio area = 15 ft × 15 ft × 5 = 1,125 ft² - John opted for square 6"×6" pavers. After multiplying the brick's length by its width, he found the paver area is 36 in².
Pavers per ft² = 144 / 36 = 4 - Total pavers needed:
Total pavers = 4 × 1,125 = 4,500 - Adding 10% wastage: 4,500 × 1.10 = 4,950 pavers
- John also wanted to estimate cost. At $0.50 per paver:
Pavers cost = 4,950 × $0.50 = $2,475
Installation at $9 per ft²:
Installation cost = 1,125 × $9 = $10,125
A Note on Using the Paver Calculator
As is the case with all construction works, paving is prone to mistakes. To avoid having to waste time going back and forth to the store for additional materials, consider buying at least 10% more of everything. Our calculator includes a wastage field for exactly this purpose.
Patio pavers are not the only thing you need to buy for your project. Remember to take into account paver sand and gravel, which are very important materials when paving your patio.
But What About Patterns?
The arrangement pattern of your pavers can affect the number of cuts required and thus the amount of waste. Some popular patterns include:
- Running Bond — Each row is offset by half a paver. Simple and classic.
- Herringbone — Pavers are laid at 45° or 90° angles in a zigzag pattern. More cuts required (add 15% wastage).
- Basketweave — Pairs of pavers alternate direction. Great with square or rectangular pavers.
- Pinwheel — Four rectangular pavers surround a square center paver. Creates a windmill effect.
- Cobblestone Fan — Pavers arranged in fan shapes. Requires more precision and cuts.
For complex patterns like herringbone, consider adding an extra 10–15% to your wastage estimate.
Why Is Having a Paved Patio a Good Idea?
- Durability — Pavers are incredibly strong and can last decades with minimal maintenance.
- Easy repairs — Individual pavers can be replaced without disturbing the entire surface.
- Aesthetics — Pavers come in many shapes, colors, and textures to complement any home style.
- Value — A well-constructed paved patio can significantly increase property value.
- Permeability — Permeable paver systems allow rainwater to drain naturally, reducing runoff.
FAQs
How many pavers do I need per square foot?
It depends on the paver size. Use the formula: Pavers per ft² = 144 / (paver width in inches × paver length in inches). For example, a 4"×8" paver covers 32 in² → 144/32 = 4.5 pavers per ft².
How much does paver installation cost?
Professional paver installation typically costs between $8 and $20 per square foot, depending on your location, pattern complexity, and site preparation required.
How much wastage should I add?
We recommend adding at least 10% for standard installations. For complex patterns like herringbone, add 15–20%.
What is the most popular paver size?
The 4"×8" (10 cm × 20 cm) brick is the most commonly used paver size. It's versatile, easy to work with, and suits most patterns.