Paver Patio Cost Estimator – DIY vs Contractor Price
Free paver patio cost estimator for rectangle, L-shaped and circular patios, with an optional fire-pit or garden cutout. Compare DIY material costs against a professional contractor quote with your own labor rate — the full paver patio calculator cost covers pavers, gravel, sand, edging and fabric.
Your Inputs
30 secLive Estimate
DIY cost = materials only (you supply the labor). Pro estimate = the same retail materials plus a per-sq-ft install rate you can adjust to reflect local quotes. Real-world savings usually land between $9 and $15 per sq ft.
How Our Formulas Work
The calculator uses standard estimating assumptions for material volume, waste, coverage and ordering allowances. Actual quantities vary by material, supplier, site conditions and installation method. We use real material bulk densities and compaction coefficients, so your orders match actual site needs. ⌈x⌉ means rounded up to the next whole unit.
Patio Footprint
Worked example: Example: 20 ft × 15 ft = 300 sq ft of patio
Pro rule of thumb: For an L, add the two rectangles. For a circle, use half the diameter as the radius r.
DIY Materials Cost
Worked example: Example: 300 sq ft × $8.90 = $2,670.00 (mid tier)
Pro rule of thumb: Per-sq-ft tiers (USD): budget $5.50, mid-range $8.90, premium $13.50 — rates differ by currency.
Contractor Total
Worked example: Example: labor = 300 sq ft × $12 = $3,600 → pro = $2,670 + $3,600 = $6,270
Pro rule of thumb: 2026 US install labor averages ≈ $12 per sq ft — dial the rate to match local quotes.
Your DIY Savings
Worked example: Example: max(0, $6,270 − $2,670) = $3,600
Pro rule of thumb: Going DIY keeps the labor line in your pocket — typically $9–15 per sq ft.
Planning Estimate
Results are estimates based on the information and assumptions provided. Actual material quantities may vary with site conditions, material specifications, installation method, waste, and supplier measurements. For construction-critical decisions, verify quantities against your supplier's specifications and any local requirements before purchasing or building.
Cut buffer: 8% running bond → 20% curved / borders.
Crushed stone: +15% compaction allowance, ≈ 1.40 tons/yd³ loose bulk density.
Bedding sand: 50 lb bag ≈ 0.5 ft³, default 1″ screed bed.
Joint sand: one 50 lb bag ≈ 75 sq ft of 1/8″ joints.
Edge & fabric: 6 ft strips, spikes ≈ every 1.4 ft; fabric +10% for seams.
Prices: 2026 local-market averages (USD · CAD · GBP · EUR · INR · AUD · JPY) — override in "local prices".
Keep the Momentum Going
Your cost estimator is just one layer of the build. Try a related tool or jump back to the full material list.