If you’re about to start a paver patio installation in your yard, you will need the right tools, supplies, and an accurate measurement of the materials needed. There are plenty of ways to do this, but we wanted to keep things simple by providing the same formulas we use when we’re doing professional paver patio installations. Here’s what you need to know:
AGGREGATE BASE ESTIMATING FORMULA:
Getting the foundation materials right is the cornerstone of any great project.
Project Blueprint: Let’s take a 10′ × 15′ Rectangular patio with a 6″ base as an example.
- Begin by calculating the patio’s square footage.
- Now, divide that square footage by 200 (since a ton of loose aggregate covers 200 SqFt at a thickness of 1″).
- Multiply by the base thickness (in inches).
- To account for compaction, multiply by 1.25.
Voila, you have the tons of aggregate you’ll need.
Example in Action:
Given the dimensions, the total square footage equals 150 SqFt.
Here’s the math:
150 ÷ 200 = 0.75 tons for every inch of base.
0.75 tons x 6 inches = 4.5 tons.
Adjusting for compaction: 4.5 x 1.25 = 5.625.
Total Aggregate Needed: 5.625 tons.
BEDDING SAND ESTIMATING FORMULA:
Bedding sand is one of the key components of a long lasting paver patio. The key is to get enough sand to establish a secure bed for your pavers to rest on.
Project Blueprint: Using the same 10′ x 15′ patio, with a 6″ base:
- Begin with the square footage.
- Divide by 200 (since 1 ton of loose aggregate suffices for 200 SqFt at 1″ thickness).
- Multiply by the sand’s thickness in inches.
- Lastly, multiply by 1.25 to account for compaction.
Example in Action:
For 150 SqFt:
150 ÷ 200 = 0.75 tons for every inch of base.
0.75 x 1 inch of sand = 0.75 tons.
Accounting for compaction: 0.75 x 1.25 = 0.9375.
Total Bedding Sand Needed: 0.9375 tons.
SOLDIER COURSE ESTIMATING FORMULA:
Elegant boundaries can transform a space.
Project Blueprint: For a 10’x 15′ patio using Holland Stone:
- Measure the total linear footage.
- Convert it to inches by multiplying by 12.
- Divide by the width of the stone for the number of stones needed.
- Multiply the units by the SqFt/Unit.
Example in Action:
Total linear footage = 50 LnFt.
Converted to inches: 50 x 12 = 600.
600 ÷ 4 (assuming width of the stone) = 150 units.
Total square footage: 150 x .215 = 32.25.
Total Square Footage Needed: 32.25 SqFt.
SAILOR COURSE ESTIMATING FORMULA:
It’s all about the elongated, graceful boundaries.
Project Blueprint: For the same 10’x 15′ patio, using Holland Stone:
- Again, start with the total linear footage.
- Convert to inches.
- Divide by the stone’s length to determine the units required.
- Finally, calculate the SqFt needed.
Example in Action:
Total linear footage = 50 LnFt.
600 inches ÷ 8 (assuming length of stone) = 75 units.
Square footage required: 75 x .215 = 16.125.
Total Square Footage Needed: 16.125 SqFt.
When to Hire Pros to Install Your Paver Patio
This be an illuminating window into the art and precision our team of professional hardscapers dedicate to every project. We hope this guide can help you dive in, apply, and transform your outdoor space.
If you’re starting to think you’re in over your head, it might be time to call in the professionals. While most homeowners can install a basic paver patio, hiring a team that has installed thousands of patios will ensure it is done perfectly and will last the test of time. If you would like to learn more about working with Three Timbers, contact us today!
