Paver Base Calculator
Estimate aggregate base and bedding sand for a paver project.
Paver Base Calculator
Paver base calculator results
Enter the paver area, base depth, bedding sand depth, densities, and local material prices.
Paver base layers
Paver projects usually have two quantity questions: how much compacted aggregate base is needed, and how much bedding sand is needed above it. This calculator keeps those layers separate.
Use compacted target depth when you estimate material. If your supplier sells by cubic yard instead of ton, compare the cubic yard output and ask for the local material density.
- Aggregate base depth is the main driver of tons and cubic yards.
- Bedding sand is usually a thinner leveling layer, not a replacement for compacted base.
- Driveway pavers normally need more base than patios or walkways.
- Use compacted target depth and confirm the local paver system specification before ordering.
Common paver base examples
Swipe or scroll horizontally to see more columns.
| Project | Area | Aggregate base | Bedding sand |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 x 20 ft patio | 240 sq ft | 4 in base | 1 in sand |
| 20 x 30 ft patio | 600 sq ft | 4 in base | 1 in sand |
| 20 x 40 ft paver driveway | 800 sq ft | 8 in base | 1 in sand |
Paver base vs road base
A road base estimate usually focuses on one compacted aggregate layer. A paver base estimate often needs both aggregate base and bedding sand, especially for patios and walkways.
For driveway subbase, gravel pads, or class 2 base without sand, use the road base calculator. For paver projects, stay on this page so the sand layer is included.
If the pavers are already installed and you are planning sealer, use the concrete and paver sealer calculator with the coverage rate from your product label.
To count the finished pavers and estimate their price, use the paver cost calculator. It keeps piece size, joints, and pattern waste separate from base and sand quantities.
FAQ
How much paver base do I need?
Measure the project area, choose the compacted aggregate base depth, add a waste factor, then convert the volume into cubic yards and tons. Patios and walkways often use less base than paver driveways.
Does this calculator include bedding sand?
Yes. It estimates aggregate base and bedding sand separately, so you can see cubic yards, tons, and material cost for both layers.
Can I use road base under pavers?
Many paver systems use compacted crushed stone, gravel, or road base as the structural layer, plus a thinner bedding layer. Local specs and soil conditions should decide the exact material and depth.
Should I use the road base calculator instead?
Use the road base calculator when you only need aggregate base tons. Use this paver base calculator when the project also needs bedding sand and paver-specific layer planning.