Patio Base Gravel Calculator (Pavers & Flagstone)
Estimate crushed stone base and bedding sand for a long-lasting paver or flagstone patio.
1. Select Project Shape
2. Enter Dimensions
3. Select Gravel Aggregate & Density
4. Add Waste & Compaction Buffer
Gravel Layer & Excavation Cross-Section Simulator
Visualize multi-layer ground excavation, plate compaction settling, and dump truck hauling logistics in real-time.
To achieve a final compacted depth of 6.0 inches, you must spread 7.1 inches of loose uncompacted aggregate before running the plate compactor.
Recommended Depth & Base Specifications for Patio Base Gravel Calculator
Selecting the proper installation depth is the single most critical factor in preventing premature rutting, sinking, or weed breakthrough.
| Layer / Application | Recommended Depth | Stone Aggregate Type | Contractor Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pedestrian Paver Patio | 4 Inches + 1" Sand | Crusher Run / Road Base | Suitable for dining tables, grills, and normal foot traffic on firm native soil. |
| Clay Soil / Cold Climate | 6 Inches + 1" Sand | Compacted Aggregate Base | Prevents winter frost heave and dish-shaped settling in expansive clay. |
| Dry-Laid Flagstone | 3 Inches | Crushed Stone + Coarse Sand | Thinner base is acceptable when stones are large and the patio receives light use. |
💡 Contractor Installation Pro Tips
- Slope the finished patio 1 inch per 8 feet away from the house so storm water never reaches the foundation.
- Order an extra 15% of aggregate for compaction loss and edge cuts; keep bedding sand sharp/concrete sand, not play sand.
Frequently Asked Questions About Patio Base Gravel Calculator
How much gravel do I need for a 12x12 paver patio?
A 12x12 patio with 4 inches of compacted base needs 1.78 cubic yards of aggregate before compaction allowance, or roughly 2.8 tons of crusher run plus about 0.45 cubic yards of bedding sand.
How thick should a paver patio base be?
Use 4 inches for normal pedestrian patios on well-draining soil and 6 inches over clay or in freeze-thaw climates.
Missing a Stone Type or Have Feedback?
We update density presets and formulas regularly based on local quarry feedback.