The base and bedding layer are separate orders.
Geometry = area × depth · Order volume = geometry × loose-volume multiplier × (1 + waste ÷ 100)
Use the specified layer footprint
Enter the footprint and finished depth for the layer from your project specification. A base may extend beyond the paving footprint; use the actual layer dimensions. This tool does not select a safe base depth, design drainage or determine suitability for vehicle loads.
Make the compaction convention explicit
The loose-volume multiplier means loose volume divided by target in-place volume. If a supplier specifies 1.2, 1 m³ in place needs 1.2 m³ loose before waste. A statement that material loses 20% of loose volume instead implies 1 ÷ 0.8 = 1.25. These are different conventions, so confirm the meaning before entering a number.
A worked two-layer example
A 10 ft × 12 ft footprint at 4 in gives 40 ft³ of geometric base volume. At a hypothetical multiplier of 1.2 and zero waste, that becomes 48 ft³ loose. A separate 1 in sand layer over the same footprint is 10 ft³ before its own adjustments. Add separate lines; these depths and multiplier are arithmetic examples only.
Name the layers on your list
Label estimates “base aggregate” and “bedding layer” so the supplier can distinguish them. Each layer can have its own footprint, depth, density and price. A single combined tonnage would hide those differences. The tool does not include paver counts, cuts or jointing material.
Check the multiplier against the wording
Write the supplier’s actual instruction beside the multiplier. “Add 20%” produces a factor of 1.2; “lose 20% of loose volume” produces 1.25. If a quoted allowance already includes an ordering buffer, avoid adding the same buffer a second time.
Use the specified footprint
A layer beneath paving may have different dimensions from the visible paved surface. Use the dimensions in the project specification. Confirm edge details, suitable layer depths and preparation separately; this quantity calculator cannot approve a pavement design.
Before you place an order
Check dimensions, bag yield and the price basis. Whole bags round up; bulk orders may have minimum quantities or delivery charges that this calculator does not include. All adjustments are your inputs. Read our method, unit definitions and limits.
Useful questions
Does this count the pavers themselves?
No. It estimates the material layer underneath. Paver dimensions, joints, cuts and laying patterns require a different calculation.
Can I combine waste and compaction?
Use separate inputs and apply each once. If your supplier’s allowance already includes both effects, do not enter it twice.