Brick Paver Calculator - Estimate Your Project Cost
Brick Paver Calculator Example
John is planning to have his patio paved with bricks. Here's how he calculates the number of pavers he needs:
Step 1: Calculate the Total Patio Area
John's patio is rectangular in shape, with dimensions of 15' × 20'. Using the formula:
patio area = patio width × patio length
For his patio, the calculation looks like this:
patio area = 15 ft × 20 ft = 300 ft²
Step 2: Calculate the Area of a Single Paver
John decides to use square pavers that are 10" × 10". To find the area of a single paver, we multiply its length by its width:
area of a single paver = 10 in × 10 in = 100 in²
Next, he needs to figure out how many pavers fit into one square foot. Since there are 144 square inches in one square foot, the number of pavers per square foot is calculated like this:
pavers per square foot = 144 / single brick's area
For John’s pavers, the calculation is:
pavers per square foot = 144 / 100 = 1.44
Since you can't use a fraction of a paver, John will round up, so he needs 2 pavers per square foot.
Step 3: Calculate the Total Number of Pavers Needed
Now, John multiplies the number of pavers per square foot by the total patio area to get the total number of pavers required:
total number of pavers = pavers per square foot × patio area
So, the total number of pavers is:
total number of pavers = 2 × 300 = 600
Step 4: Estimate the Total Cost
John has found pavers that cost $0.75 each. To estimate the total cost of the pavers, he multiplies the number of pavers by the cost per paver:
paver cost = 600 × $0.75 = $450
In addition, John wants to hire a professional to install the pavers. The installation cost in his area is $12 per square foot, so the total installation cost is:
installation cost = patio area × cost per square foot
For John’s patio, the installation cost is:
installation cost = 300 × $12 = $3,600
Final Summary
- Total patio area: 300 ft²
- Number of pavers per square foot: 2
- Total number of pavers: 600
- Total cost of pavers: $450
- Total installation cost: $3,600
- Total project cost: $450 + $3,600 = $4,050
Popular Paver Patterns for Your Patio
1. Running Bond
The Running Bond pattern is one of the most common and natural paving patterns, typically associated with simple brickwork. It's easy to create and gives a clean, timeless look. This pattern works best when using rectangular bricks but can also be adapted for square bricks. The bricks are laid in rows with each row offset by half the length of the brick.
2. Stacked Bond
The Stacked Bond pattern is one of the simplest to create, although it is not commonly used for pavers. It involves stacking the pavers directly on top of each other in rows. This pattern is ideal if you're working on a DIY paving project due to its simplicity. However, it may not be as durable as other patterns, especially for high-traffic areas.
3. Herringbone
The Herringbone pattern is one of the most dynamic and attractive choices. It is characterized by a V-shaped weaving pattern and is often used at a 90° angle. However, it is equally popular to lay the pavers at a 45° angle for a different effect. This pattern provides excellent stability, making it ideal for areas with heavy foot traffic. It is also commonly used for driveways and walkways.
4. Basketweave
The Basketweave pattern creates the illusion of long bricks disappearing under each other, much like the weave of a real basket. This pattern is quite versatile and can be customized with various combinations of brick orientations. It's often used in decorative patios, pathways, and garden areas. You can find many variations of the basketweave pattern, depending on how the pavers are arranged.
Other Patterns to Consider
In addition to these popular patterns, there are plenty of other designs you can experiment with, such as the Chevron, Parquet, and Circular patterns. Each pattern offers a unique aesthetic and can be tailored to suit your specific design preferences and space requirements.