Estimate the pavers and the layers underneath
Enter the finished patio dimensions and one rectangular paver size. The count uses the face area of each paver and does not deduct joint spacing, so it is a conservative area estimate. A mixed-size pattern needs its supplier’s pattern coverage rather than this single-size calculation.
Packs = round up (pavers ÷ pavers per pack)
Finished layer volume = patio area × layer depth
Loose order volume = finished layer volume × (1 + loose allowance ÷ 100)
A worked example
A 4 m × 3 m patio is 12 m². With 200 mm × 100 mm pavers and 10% waste, the estimate is 660 units. At 50 per pack, buy 14 packs, or 700 units. A 100 mm base is 1.2 m³ at the selected finished depth; a 20% loose allowance produces 1.44 m³ to discuss with your supplier.
Depths are inputs, not design advice
The prefilled depths illustrate the calculation. Soil, traffic, drainage, frost, paving type and installation method determine the actual build-up. Ask for a suitable specification before setting the depths. The volume calculation does not check falls, damp-proof course clearance or ground stability.
Loose-volume allowances vary by material and delivery method. If material is sold by mass, ask the supplier to convert volume using the actual bulk density. The calculator deliberately does not invent a tonnes-per-cubic-metre factor. Bedding may be sand or another specified material; mortar and jointing products need their own mix or coverage calculations.
Check your shopping list
- Confirm pack size and whether the supplier sells individual units.
- Check full-perimeter edging against the sides that actually require restraints.
- Allow separately for geotextile where specified, jointing product, drainage, excavation and disposal.
- Confirm access, pallet charges, delivery and compaction equipment.
Further product-specific information: Marshalls garden and driveway resources. Use installation guidance matched to your selected paving system.
Common questions
Does paver waste also increase the base volume?
No. Paver waste applies to the paving units. Base and bedding each use their selected depth and a separate loose-volume allowance.
Does this work for a driveway?
It can perform area and volume arithmetic, but it does not design a driveway. Vehicle loads and local site conditions require an appropriate pavement specification.
Can I enter inches and feet?
Yes. In imperial mode, patio dimensions are feet, paver sizes and layer depths are inches, and layer order volumes are cubic yards. Use decimal values, such as 0.5 for half an inch.