Block Paving Calculator 2026
Instantly estimate the number of paving blocks, sharp sand bedding, and sub-base required for your driveway, path, or patio. Supports herringbone, basketweave, and stretcher bond patterns.
Area Dimensions & Block Specs
Define your paved area, block size, and laying pattern
Total length of the area to be block paved
Or enter custom dimensions below
Face dimensions of a single paving block
Kiln-dried sand joint width between blocks (typically 2–5mm)
90° herringbone is recommended for driveways — it distributes vehicle load stress more effectively.
Compacted MOT Type 1 layer — 100mm for paths, 150mm+ for driveways
Uncompacted sharp sand / grit sand layer beneath blocks (typically 40–50mm)
Extra on top of pattern wastage — for cuts around drains, pillars & edges
Material Estimates
Blocks, sharp sand, and sub-base volumes
Enter your area dimensions and block specs above, then click Estimate Block Paving Materials to reveal your complete material list.
Common Block Sizes & Coverage
Standard block paving dimensions and approximate coverage. Always add pattern wastage on top — 5% for straight bonds, 10–15% for herringbone.
| Block Size (mm) | Blocks per m² | Best Pattern | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 200 × 100 | ~50 | Herringbone / Stretcher | Driveways, paths |
| 200 × 133 | ~38 | Stretcher Bond | Residential driveways |
| 210 × 105 | ~45 | Herringbone 90° | Commercial areas |
| 240 × 120 | ~35 | Stretcher / Basketweave | Garden paths & patios |
| 160 × 80 | ~78 | Herringbone 45° | Compact courtyards |
Block Paving FAQ
Everything you need to know about sub-base preparation, block quantities, joint sand, and choosing the right laying pattern.
Divide your total area (in m²) by the face area of one block (in m²). Add a wastage allowance of 5–10% for straight patterns and 10–15% for herringbone or diagonal laying. Most standard 200×100mm blocks cover roughly 50 blocks per m².
For a domestic car driveway, a compacted MOT Type 1 sub-base of at least 100mm is required. For heavy vehicles, commercial use, or areas with weak, clay-based soil, increase the depth to 150–200mm to prevent rutting and subsidence.
Sharp sand (also called grit sand or concreting sand) should be laid at a depth of 40–50mm uncompacted, which compacts down to approximately 25–35mm once the blocks are vibrated in. Never use soft building sand — it washes out and causes blocks to sink.
A herringbone 45° pattern requires the most cuts, typically adding 10–15% wastage. Stretcher bond and basketweave patterns are more material-efficient with only 5–10% wastage. For driveways, 90° herringbone is recommended as it better distributes vehicle load stress.
Sealing is optional but recommended. A block paving sealant locks kiln-dried jointing sand in place, prevents weed growth, resists oil and fuel stains, and enhances the colour of the blocks. Apply sealant 6–8 weeks after laying once the jointing sand has fully settled.