Paver Base and Sand Calculator
Enter your patio size to see how much compactable gravel base and bedding sand to order.
How the calculation works
base (cu ft) = length × width × (base depth ÷ 12) × (1 + compaction %)
sand (cu ft) = length × width × (sand depth ÷ 12)
Divide by 27 for cubic yards. Tonnage uses about 1.4 tons per cubic yard for crushed gravel base and 1.35 for concrete sand. Both are typical figures, so ask your supplier for theirs.
Worked example
A 12 × 12 foot patio is 144 square feet. A 6" base is 72 cubic feet, or 86.4 with 20% for compaction. That's 3.2 cubic yards, about 4.5 tons. One inch of sand is 12 cubic feet, about 0.44 cubic yards.
Tips
- Compact in layers. Spread and compact the base 2" to 3" at a time with a plate compactor. One thick layer won't compact all the way through.
- Dig deeper than the base. Excavation depth = base + sand + paver thickness (usually 2-3/8"), minus any height you want the patio to sit above the ground.
- Slope for drainage: about 1/4" of fall per foot, away from the house.
Frequently asked questions
How thick should a paver base be?
About 4" for walkways, 6" for patios, and 8" to 12" for driveways. Clay soil or a cold climate calls for the thicker end.
Can I use pea gravel as a paver base?
No. Pea gravel is round and won't lock together. Use crushed angular stone with fines, often sold as paver base, road base or 3/4" minus.