Paver calculator
Enter the size of the area, pick your paver size and layout, and see how many pavers to buy, including extra for cuts and breakage.
Figures last reviewed October 2026. See sources.
Common paver sizes
Nominal sizes in inches. Your paver may differ slightly, so check the packaging or your supplier.
| Size | Square feet each | Pavers per square foot |
|---|---|---|
| 4 × 8 in | 0.222 | 4.50 |
| 6 × 6 in | 0.250 | 4.00 |
| 6 × 9 in | 0.375 | 2.67 |
| 12 × 12 in | 1.000 | 1.00 |
| 16 × 16 in | 1.778 | 0.56 |
| 12 × 24 in | 2.000 | 0.50 |
How much extra to add
| Layout | Extra |
|---|---|
| Simple layout, straight edges | 5% |
| Herringbone or many cuts | 10% |
| Diagonal, curves, or tight spaces | 15% |
How this is calculated
Divide the area by the area of one paver to get the number you need for the surface. Then add extra for pavers that must be cut at the edges, around obstacles, and for breakage. The result is rounded up, because you cannot buy part of a paver.
Simple layouts with straight edges need the least extra. Patterns with many angled cuts, such as herringbone, and diagonal layouts, curves, and tight spaces need more, because the offcuts are often too small to reuse. If you are unsure, choose the higher option.
Pavers are often sold by nominal size, which usually already includes the small gap between pavers. If you measured the paver itself, enter your joint width under advanced options so the count reflects the gap.
Example: a 12 ft by 10 ft area with 12 × 12 in pavers and 5% extra needs about 126 pavers (120 for the surface plus 6 extra).
Quick reference: common sizes
Pavers needed for the surface plus the default 5% extra. Use the calculator above for your exact size and layout.
| Area | 4 × 8 in pavers | 6 × 9 in pavers | 12 × 12 in pavers |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 × 10 ft | 473 | 280 | 105 |
| 12 × 12 ft | 681 | 404 | 152 |
| 10 × 20 ft | 945 | 560 | 210 |
| 16 × 16 ft | 1,210 | 717 | 269 |
| 20 × 20 ft | 1,890 | 1,120 | 420 |
Common questions
How many pavers do I need?
Divide the area in square feet by the area of one paver in square feet, then add 5 to 10 percent for cuts and breakage, and more for complex layouts. The calculator does this and rounds up.
How many pavers per square foot?
It depends on the size. A 12 by 12 inch paver covers 1 square foot, so you need 1 per square foot. A 6 by 9 inch paver needs about 2.7 per square foot, and a 4 by 8 inch paver about 4.5.
How much extra should I order?
Many guides suggest 5 to 10 percent for typical patios, and 10 to 15 percent or more for diagonal or herringbone layouts, curves, and small or irregular spaces. Extra pavers are also handy for future repairs.
Do I need to count the gaps between pavers?
Most nominal sizes already include the gap. If you measured the actual paver and the gap is wide, enter the joint width under advanced options.
What else do I need under pavers?
A compacted stone base and a thin layer of bedding sand. Use the link under your result to calculate those for the same area.
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