How a paver patio is built
- Excavate to the base depth, plus 1" of sand, plus the paver thickness (usually 2⅜").
- Base: crusher run or ¾" minus gravel, compacted in 2" lifts with a plate compactor.
- Bedding: 1" of concrete sand, screeded flat. Don't compact it before laying.
- Lay pavers, cut the edges, and install the edge restraint.
- Compact the pavers, then sweep in polymeric sand and mist it with water to set.
Pavers per square foot
| Paver size | Pavers per sq ft | Per 100 sq ft (before extra) |
|---|---|---|
| 4" × 8" | 4.5 | 450 |
| 6" × 6" | 4 | 400 |
| 6" × 9" | 2.67 | 267 |
| 12" × 12" | 1 | 100 |
| 16" × 16" | 0.56 | 57 |
| 12" × 24" | 0.5 | 50 |
Common questions
How many pavers do I need?
Divide the area by the area of one paver, then add extra for cuts: 5% for straight running bond, 10% for basketweave or curved edges, 15% for 45° herringbone. A 12 × 12 patio with 6 × 9" pavers is 384 pavers before extra, and 423 with 10%.
How deep should the base under pavers be?
Use 4" of compacted gravel for patios and walkways in mild, well-drained soil, 6" in clay or frost-prone areas, and 8–12" under driveways. Then 1" of bedding sand on top.
How much polymeric sand do I need?
It depends heavily on joint width and paver thickness. One 50 lb bag covers roughly 60–100 sq ft with tight joints, but only 25–40 sq ft with wide joints or tumbled pavers. Check the manufacturer's coverage chart.
Why do I need edge restraint?
Without a rigid edge (plastic, aluminum or a concrete curb), pavers creep outward and the joints open. Plan on edging for every side that doesn't sit against a house or slab.
Prices last checked October 2026.