How many block pavers per m²?

Standard 200 x 100mm block pavers give 50 blocks per m². This is the same regardless of laying pattern — herringbone, stretcher bond, and basketweave all use 50 blocks per m². However, wastage varies: 45° herringbone generates more edge cuts (add 10% extra), while stretcher bond only needs 3-5% wastage.

What laying pattern is strongest for driveways?

90° herringbone is the strongest pattern for driveways and areas subject to vehicle traffic. The interlocking pattern distributes load across multiple blocks, preventing tracking and movement. It's a requirement for adoptable roads and recommended by Marshalls and Brett Paving for all driveways.

How thick should block paving be for a driveway?

For driveways, use 60mm thick blocks minimum. 50mm blocks are only suitable for patios and pedestrian areas. The sub-base should be 150mm of compacted Type 1 MOT for domestic driveways, with a 30-40mm sharp sand laying course on top.

What sub-base do I need for block paving?

For driveways: 150mm of compacted Type 1 MOT sub-base. For patios: 100mm is sufficient. The sub-base should be compacted in layers using a plate compactor (wacker plate). Over-excavate by 50mm beyond the paving area to support the edge restraint.

Do I need edge restraint for block paving?

Yes, edge restraint is essential to prevent the blocks from spreading over time. Use concrete edging kerbs (or hidden edge restraint) set in concrete around the full perimeter. Without it, the paving will gradually shift and joints will open up, especially under vehicle loads.

Block Paving Calculator — How Many Blocks Do I Need?

Calculate block paving quantities for driveways and patios. Includes herringbone, stretcher bond and basketweave patterns.

Area Length

Length of area to pave

Area Width

Width of area to pave

Block Size

60mm thickness for driveways

Laying Pattern

Herringbone is strongest for driveways

Include wastage allowance

Adds 10% on top of pattern waste

Extra Wastage Percentage

Added to pattern wastage (shown above)

Include Type 1 sub-base

150mm for driveways, 100mm for patios

Include sand (laying + jointing)

Sharp sand laying course + kiln-dried jointing sand

Include concrete edging

Edge restraint around perimeter

Price Per Block (optional)

Price per individual block paver

How We Calculate This

Our block paving calculator works out the number of blocks, sub-base materials, sand, and edging needed for your driveway or patio. It accounts for the extra wastage generated by different laying patterns.

The formula

Blocks = Area × Blocks per m² × (1 + Pattern waste% + Extra waste%)
Sub-base = Area × Depth × 1,800 kg/m³
Sharp sand = Area × 0.035m × 1,600 kg/m³
Kiln-dried sand = Area × 5 kg/m²

Pattern wastage rates

Herringbone 90°: 5% pattern waste (fewer edge cuts)
Herringbone 45°: 10% pattern waste (most edge cuts)
Stretcher bond: 3% pattern waste (minimal cuts)
Basketweave: 5% pattern waste

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.