Paver Base Calculator
This paver base calculator figures out how much gravel base and paver sand you need for a patio or walkway. Enter your length and width to get results for a standard 4-inch gravel base plus 1-inch paver sand leveling layer, in cubic yards and tons.
- Gravel base (4 in)
- —
- Paver sand (1 in)
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| Layer | Depth | Density (lb/ft³) | Tons per cubic yard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gravel base | 4 in | 105 | 1.42 |
| Paver sand | 1 in | 105 | 1.42 |
| Patio size | Gravel base (4 in) | Paver sand (1 in) |
|---|---|---|
| 10x10 ft | 1.23 cubic yards | 0.31 cubic yards |
| 12x12 ft | 1.78 cubic yards | 0.44 cubic yards |
| 15x15 ft | 2.78 cubic yards | 0.69 cubic yards |
Frequently Asked Questions
How thick should a paver base be?
Most paver patios use a 4-inch compacted gravel base, topped with a 1-inch layer of paver or leveling sand before the pavers go down. Driveways carrying vehicle traffic often need 6-8 inches of gravel base.
How much gravel and sand do I need for a paver patio?
A 10x10 ft patio needs about 1.23 cubic yards of gravel base at 4 inches and 0.31 cubic yards of paver sand at 1 inch. Larger patios scale proportionally with area.
What kind of sand goes under pavers?
Coarse paver sand or polymeric sand is used for the leveling layer under pavers, not fine play sand or all-purpose sand. Paver sand compacts evenly and drains well, which keeps pavers stable and level over time.
Can I skip the gravel base for a paver walkway?
Skipping the gravel base is not recommended, since it provides drainage and prevents pavers from sinking or shifting with freeze-thaw cycles. Even light-traffic walkways typically need at least a 4-inch base for long-term stability.
How many bags of paver base do I need?
Paver base is usually bought in bulk by the cubic yard rather than bagged, since projects typically need more material than a few bags can practically cover. Use the calculator above to convert your patio size to cubic yards for a bulk delivery quote.