Projects
How Much Gravel Do I Need for a Paver Patio?
A paver patio needs 4–6 inches of compacted crushed stone plus about an inch of bedding sand. Here is the depth to use, a size-by-size table, and how to allow for the base.
How deep should the base be?
For a walk-on paver patio, build 4 inches (100 mm) of compacted crushed stone on firm ground, or 6 inches (150 mm) on soft or clay soil. On top of the gravel goes about 1 inch (25 mm) of bedding sand, then the pavers. Extend the base 6 inches past the patio edges so they do not slump.
If the patio will carry vehicles, use a 6–8 inch base like a driveway.
Gravel needed by patio size
For a 4 inch compacted crushed-stone base (add ~50% for a 6 inch base):
| Patio size | Area | Crushed stone at 4" |
|---|---|---|
| 10 x 10 ft | 100 ft² | ≈ 1.2 yd³ (≈ 1.8 t) |
| 12 x 12 ft | 144 ft² | ≈ 1.8 yd³ (≈ 2.6 t) |
| 14 x 16 ft | 224 ft² | ≈ 2.8 yd³ (≈ 4.0 t) |
| 16 x 20 ft | 320 ft² | ≈ 3.9 yd³ (≈ 5.7 t) |
Add 5–10% extra for compaction. You will also need bedding sand — roughly one cubic yard of sand per 300 ft² at 1 inch.
What stone and sand to use
Use 3/4 inch crusher run (Granular A) for the base — it compacts to a firm, level platform. Top it with concrete/bedding sand, screeded to an even inch, not play sand. Size each layer with the Patio Gravel Calculator and Sand Calculator, and see the gravel depth guide for other projects.
Frequently asked questions
How much gravel do I need under a paver patio?
Use 4 inches of compacted crushed stone on firm ground, or 6 inches on soft soil, plus about an inch of bedding sand. A 10x10 ft patio needs roughly 1.2 cubic yards (about 1.8 tonnes) of crushed stone at 4 inches.
What gravel goes under pavers?
Use 3/4 inch crusher run (Granular A) — angular crushed stone with stone dust that compacts into a firm, level base. Top it with concrete bedding sand, not play sand, before laying the pavers.
How deep should a paver base be?
Four inches of compacted gravel for a walk-on patio, six inches on soft or clay soil, and six to eight inches if vehicles will drive on it. Add about one inch of bedding sand on top of the gravel.
How much sand do I need for a paver patio?
About one inch of bedding sand over the gravel base — roughly one cubic yard of sand per 300 square feet. Use coarse concrete sand and screed it level before setting the pavers.
Disclaimer: This guide gives general estimates for planning. Actual gravel quantities, weights and prices vary with material type, particle size, moisture, compaction, supplier and your province. Costs are material-only ballparks in Canadian dollars and exclude labour, delivery and taxes unless stated. Always confirm quantities and prices with your local supplier.