BCBuildCalc
BuildCalc Project Guide

Paving & Patio Materials Guide

Estimate paving units, sub-base and bedding materials for patios and paths using layer depth and coverage

In this guide
  1. Paved area
  2. Pavers or slabs
  3. Sub-base
  4. Bedding layer
  5. Worked example
  6. Site and region

Paved area

Measure the finished paved footprint, splitting curves and irregular shapes into manageable sections.

Pavers or slabs

Use actual unit dimensions and joint width where the layout depends on module size. Packs may be sold by nominal coverage, which is usually the best ordering figure.

Sub-base

Sub-base is a volume calculation based on compacted layer depth. Loose delivered material and compacted finished volume are not always identical.

Bedding layer

Sand or mortar-bed quantity depends on the specified compacted or finished thickness and installation system.

Worked example

A 24 m² patio with a 100 mm sub-base has a finished sub-base volume of 2.4 m³ before compaction/delivery conversion and waste.

Site and region

BuildCalc supports the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and South Africa. The geometry is universal, but terminology, units, pack sizes and common product dimensions differ. Use the dimensions printed on the product you intend to buy rather than assuming a regional default is exact.

Drainage, falls, ground conditions and frost/heave considerations are project-specific and may affect construction depth.

Use the related calculators

Use the calculator for your measurements, then return to this guide to check assumptions, allowances and ordering considerations.

Paving calculatorPaving base
Important: BuildCalc provides indicative quantity estimates, not structural, regulatory or professional design advice. Check manufacturer data, site conditions and applicable local requirements before ordering or construction.