Stone Base Calculator
Calculate the materials needed for a solid paver or patio stone base.
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Calculate Your Paver Base with the Stone Base Calculator
A beautiful paver patio or walkway is only as good as the foundation it's built on. The stone base calculator is a crucial tool for planning this unseen but all-important layer. It helps you calculate the precise amount of compacted crushed stone required to create a stable, level base that will prevent your pavers from sinking or shifting over time.
A proper paver base consists of two layers: a 4-6 inch layer of compacted crushed stone for structural support and drainage, and a 1-inch screeded layer of sand or stone dust for leveling. This calculator is designed to estimate the materials for that primary 4-6 inch structural base.
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep should a paver base be?
For a pedestrian walkway or patio, a 4-inch compacted stone base is sufficient. For a driveway that will support vehicles, the base should be at least 6-8 inches deep, and potentially deeper depending on soil conditions.
What is the best material for a paver base?
#57 crushed stone is an excellent choice for the main base layer due to its angularity and compaction properties. For the 1-inch leveling layer on top, coarse concrete sand or stone dust is used.
Do I have to use a base for pavers?
Yes, you absolutely must. Laying pavers directly on soil is a guarantee that they will sink, shift, and become uneven within a year. The base provides the stable, load-bearing foundation required for a long-lasting installation.
How much crushed stone do I need for a 10x10 patio base?
For a 10ft x 10ft patio (100 sq ft) with a 4-inch deep base, you will need approximately 1.25 cubic yards or 1.8 tons of crushed stone. Use our calculator for an exact figure.
What is the 'screeding' layer?
Screeding is the process of dragging a straight board across two parallel pipes or rails to create a perfectly flat 1-inch layer of sand or stone dust on top of your compacted base. The pavers are then set directly onto this smooth layer.
Should I compact the stone base?
Yes. Compaction is non-negotiable. You should spread the crushed stone in 2-3 inch layers and compact each layer thoroughly with a plate compactor before adding the next.