Paver Base Calculator
A paver patio or walkway sits on a base of crushed stone. This works out how much stone that base needs, from the area and how deep you build it.
- Free
- Works offline after your first visit
- Saves on this device
- No sign-up
- Updated
How it works
Volume is area times depth, plus extra, because crushed stone packs down when it is compacted. Four inches, or 10 centimetres, is common for a walkway, and a driveway needs more.
Weight is volume times the stone density. The density varies with the stone, so ask your supplier for the figure on their load.
Worked example
A paved area of 200 ft² on a base 4 in deep needs 2.84 yd³ of crushed stone, about 4.8 ton by weight.
Questions
How deep should the base be?
It depends on how the area will be used and on your soil. Foot traffic and vehicles need different depths, so check local guidance for your site.
Why add extra for packing?
Stone settles as it is tamped down. A little extra means the finished base still reaches the depth you planned.
Should I add sand on top?
A thin layer of sand or stone dust is often spread over the base before the pavers go down. This calculator counts only the base.
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