How this calculator works
Area = length x width. Compacted volume = area x base depth. Loose volume = compacted volume x waste allowance. Tons = loose cubic yards x aggregate density.
A stable paver patio starts with the base. Most pedestrian patios use about 4 inches of compacted aggregate, while driveways and weak soil often need a thicker base specified by a local contractor.
Use the tons result for bulk aggregate orders and the bag count when buying bagged paver base. Always confirm the density and bag volume printed on the product you plan to buy.
Common paver base material examples
These examples use 10% allowance, 1.6 tons per cubic yard aggregate density, and 0.5 cu ft bags.
| Project size | 4 in base | 6 in base | Base tons | 0.5 cu ft bags | Bulk cost range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10x10 ft | 1.36 cu yd | 2.04 cu yd | 2.17 tons | 74 | $88-$122 |
| 12x12 ft | 1.96 cu yd | 2.93 cu yd | 3.13 tons | 106 | $127-$176 |
| 16x20 ft | 4.35 cu yd | 6.52 cu yd | 6.95 tons | 235 | $282-$391 |
| 20x20 ft | 5.43 cu yd | 8.15 cu yd | 8.69 tons | 294 | $352-$489 |
Base tons and cost range use the 4 inch base column. Use the calculator above for 6 inch cost or custom density.
Methodology and assumptions
- The default waste allowance is 10% to account for cuts, compaction, uneven excavation, and ordering buffer.
- Default base density is 1.6 tons per cubic yard; default driveway gravel density is 1.4 tons per cubic yard. Use your supplier's exact product density when available.
- Bag counts round up because partial bags are not orderable.
- Depth presets are planning defaults. Belgard describes a compacted aggregate base commonly between 4 and 6 inches for pavers, and CMHA describes bedding sand as a nominal 1 inch layer.
Example calculation
For the first row in the table, the calculator multiplies length by width, converts depth to a volume, adds the waste allowance, then converts that volume to bags, tons, or cost using the selected product assumptions.
This is a planning calculator, not an engineering specification. Confirm local code, soil conditions, drainage, and supplier product data before ordering.