Estimate pavers, base material, sand, and cost for patios and walkways.
Paver Installation Guide
A well-installed paver patio or walkway adds value and beauty to your property. Proper base preparation is the key to a long-lasting installation.
| Paver Size | Pavers per Sq Ft | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| 4×8 in | 4.5 | Driveways, walkways |
| 6×6 in | 4.0 | Patios, borders |
| 6×9 in | 2.67 | Patios, pool decks |
| 12×12 in | 1.0 | Patios, stepping stones |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many pavers do I need per square foot?
It depends on paver size. Standard 4×8 inch pavers: about 4.5 per sq ft. 6×6 inch: about 4 per sq ft. 6×9 inch: about 2.7 per sq ft. 12×12 inch: 1 per sq ft. Always add 5-10% for cuts and waste.
How much does a paver patio cost?
DIY paver patio materials cost $3-8 per square foot. Professional installation runs $10-25 per square foot including base materials, pavers, and labor. Premium pavers like natural stone run $15-50+ per sq ft installed.
What base material do I need under pavers?
Use 4-6 inches of compacted gravel base (crushed limestone or gravel), topped with 1 inch of bedding sand. For driveways, use 8-12 inches of base. The base is critical for drainage and preventing settling.
How do I calculate sand for pavers?
You need about 1 inch depth of bedding sand. For 100 sq ft, that’s approximately 0.31 cubic yards or about 500 pounds of sand. Add polymeric sand for joints — about 1 bag per 25-50 sq ft depending on joint width.
Do pavers need to be sealed?
Sealing is optional but recommended. It enhances color, prevents staining, inhibits weed growth in joints, and protects against UV fading. Apply sealer after installation and reapply every 2-3 years.
How thick should pavers be?
For pedestrian areas (patios, walkways): 1.5-2.25 inches thick. For driveways and areas with vehicle traffic: 2.75-3.15 inches thick. Thicker pavers provide greater strength and longevity.
What is the best pattern for laying pavers?
Herringbone is the strongest pattern for driveways. Running bond is easiest to install. Basket weave offers a classic look. The 45-degree herringbone provides maximum interlock and load distribution.
How long do pavers last?
Concrete pavers last 25-50 years. Brick pavers last 25+ years. Natural stone pavers can last 50-100+ years. All require minimal maintenance compared to poured concrete or asphalt.
Can pavers be installed over concrete?
Yes, pavers can be laid over existing concrete using a thin layer of bedding sand or mortar. The concrete must be in good condition without significant cracks or heaving. Drainage should be considered.
How much gravel do I need under pavers?
For a patio: 4-6 inches of compacted gravel base. For a driveway: 8-12 inches. To calculate volume: Area (sq ft) × depth (ft) ÷ 27 = cubic yards. One cubic yard of gravel weighs about 2,800 lbs.