Paver Base Calculator

Get the base gravel and bedding sand for a paver walkway, patio or driveway. Base depth depends on the load the pavers will carry.

%

Base gravel

5.8 tons

  • Base gravel volume3.89 yd³
  • Bedding sand0.88 tons
  • Bedding sand volume0.65 yd³
  • Polymeric sand (approx.)4 50 lb bags

Estimates only. Round up when you order, and confirm structural details with your local building code.

How to use it

  1. Enter the area.
  2. Choose the project type to set the base depth.
  3. Set the bedding sand depth (1 in is standard).

The formula

Base tons = area × base depth ÷ 27 × 1.5

Sand = area × sand depth ÷ 27

Worked example

Area Length20 ft
Area Width10 ft
Project typePatio (6 in base)
Bedding sand depth1 in
Extra for settling / compaction5 %

Result

Base gravel5.8 tons
Base gravel volume3.89 yd³
Bedding sand0.88 tons
Bedding sand volume0.65 yd³
Polymeric sand (approx.)4 50 lb bags

Tips before you order

  • Extend the base 6 in beyond the paver edge so the edge restraint sits on compacted gravel.
  • Polymeric sand coverage depends on joint width — check the bag.

Questions

How deep should a paver base be?

About 4 in for walkways, 6 in for patios and 8–12 in for driveways, plus 1 in of bedding sand.