How to use this calculator
- Enter Area in sq ft.
- Enter Gravel depth in in — or tap a preset badge to auto-fill a typical value.
- Press Calculate. The highlighted row is your order quantity; the note beneath it translates the number into real-world terms.
Formula & constants
Patio spec: 6 in gravel + 1 in sand. Driveway spec: 8–10 in gravel. Gravel: area × 0.5 ft × 105 ÷ 2,000 tons; sand: area × (1/12) × 105 ÷ 2,000 tons. Every default in the fields above is editable — when your supplier’s spec sheet lists a different density, coverage rate or price, enter that number instead. The waste and compaction allowances follow common trade practice; see our methodology page for the derivation of each formula and the standards it references.
Where this fits in the project
Hardscape follows the same layer logic as paving: excavate, place compacted base and bedding sand, then set surface units. Bulk organics like mulch and topsoil are ordered by the cubic yard.
How this connects to your project
No quantity stands alone — each material in the chain depends on the ones around it. These are the planning steps that pair with the paver base calculator:
- Paver Calculator — Pavers need proper base construction.
- Gravel Calculator — Paver base uses crushed gravel aggregate.
- Sand Calculator — Bedding sand is the top layer of paver base.
- Sub-base Calculator — Paver base is a specific type of sub-base.
- Compaction Calculator — Each base layer must be compacted.
- Excavation Calculator — Excavate to proper depth before building paver base.
Frequently asked questions
Can pavers go straight on sand?
No — sand alone migrates and ruts. The compacted gravel layer is the structure; sand is only a 1 in setting bed.
What is polymeric sand?
Joint sand with binders that hardens after wetting — locks joints against weeds, ants and washout. One bag does 50–100 sq ft.
Last verified: — prices reflect current national averages. See our methodology.
Estimates are for planning. Material densities, coverage rates and prices vary by region and supplier — confirm final quantities before ordering, and check local code where structural or electrical work is involved.