Patio Area
120 sq ft
Gravel
2.5 tons
Est. Cost
$341
Standard: 4" for patios, 6\u20138" for driveways
Standard: 1" layer on top of compacted gravel
Includes 20% compaction factor
Does not include paver cost ($3–$8/sq ft)
Inputs
Result
Area = 12 × 10 = 120 sq ft. Gravel: 120 × 4/12 = 40 cu ft × 1.2 compaction = 48 cu ft = 1.78 cu yd × 1.4 tons/yd = 2.1 tons. Bedding sand: 120 × 1/12 = 10 cu ft ÷ 0.5 = 20 bags.
Inputs
Result
Area = 320 sq ft. Gravel: 320 × 6/12 × 1.2 / 27 = 7.1 cu yd × 1.4 = 8.4 tons. Bedding sand: 320/12/0.5 = 54 bags. Polymeric sand with 5mm joints needs more: (320/75) × 1.67 adjust = 8 bags.
You need a 1-inch layer of bedding sand (also called screed sand) over the compacted gravel base. For a 120 sq ft patio (12×10 ft), this equals about 10 cubic feet or 0.37 cubic yards. One 50 lb bag of sand covers about 0.5 cubic feet.
The gravel base should be 4 inches deep for pedestrian patios and 6–8 inches for driveways or areas with vehicle traffic. Use 3/4-inch crushed stone or road base (also called process gravel). Compact in 2-inch lifts with a plate compactor.
| Application | Base Depth | Gravel Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pedestrian patio | 4" | 3/4" crushed stone | Standard for foot traffic |
| Heavy use patio | 6" | 3/4" crushed stone | Outdoor kitchen, hot tub |
| Driveway | 8–12" | Road base + crushed | Must support vehicle weight |
| Walkway | 3–4" | 3/4" crushed stone | Light foot traffic only |
A 50 lb bag of polymeric sand covers approximately 75 square feet with standard 1/8" (3mm) joints and 2-3/8" (60mm) thick pavers. For wider joints or thicker pavers, coverage decreases proportionally. A 120 sq ft patio needs about 2 bags.
The total excavation depth is the sum of all layers: gravel base (4"), bedding sand (1"), and paver thickness (2-3/8" standard). For a standard patio, that is about 7-3/8 inches total. Add 1/4" per foot of slope for drainage away from structures.
Yes, edge restraint is critical to prevent pavers from shifting outward over time. Install rigid plastic or aluminum edging along all exposed edges, secured with 10-inch spikes every 12 inches. Edges against a wall or foundation do not need restraint.
Read our guide
Read our guide
Read our guide
Calculate materials for garden walkways
Plan raised garden beds
Plan fence materials and costs
Explore all garden planning tools
Last Updated: Mar 9, 2026
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.