How deep should the base be for a paver driveway?

8 inches of compacted crushed stone for firm, well-drained soil, and 10–12 inches over clay or in freeze-thaw climates. That's roughly double a patio base, because the base - not the pavers - carries the vehicle load.

How thick should driveway pavers be?

At least 2⅜ inches (60 mm). Thinner 45–50 mm patio pavers can crack under a car. Match the paver to a vehicular rating and lay them in herringbone for the best interlock.

Do I need edge restraint and fabric?

Yes on both counts for a driveway. Spiked edge restraint stops the pavers spreading under turning tyres, and a geotextile fabric between soil and stone prevents the base pumping into soft ground.

Paver Driveway Calculator

100% in your browser - no upload, no sign-up.

Planning a paver driveway? This presets the calculator for a driveway build - a deep, vehicle-rated base and thicker pavers - and counts the pavers, sub-base and bedding sand you need for your area.

Pick a paver, pattern and colour below - the patio updates instantly.

Pavers to buy (incl. extra)

Sub-base gravel

Bedding sand

💡 Sub-base & sand are estimates - confirm depths with your supplier.

Patio area: - · Edge restraint: - · Pavers to cut (estimate): -

See what this patio costs to install →

💡 Extra for cuts is included - buy one batch and keep spares.

⚠️ Compact the base in thin layers - a loose base sinks and turns wavy.

Base & sub-base

A driveway carries cars, so it needs far more base than a patio: 8 inches of compacted crushed stone for firm soils, and 10–12 inches over clay or in cold, frost-prone regions. Compact it in 3–4 inch lifts. The calculator is preset to a 10-inch base - raise it for clay or heavy vehicles.

Choosing pavers

Use interlocking pavers at least 2⅜ inches (60 mm) thick; thinner patio pavers can crack under a car. A herringbone layout locks the units together and resists the twisting force of turning wheels better than a running bond or stack.

Edges, drainage & load

Rigid edge restraint spiked into the base is essential - without it a driveway spreads and rutts at the edges. Lay a geotextile fabric between soil and sub-base on soft ground to stop pumping, and slope the surface about ¼ inch per foot to drain.

Best for

Replacing a cracked concrete or asphalt driveway
Homeowners who want a repairable, non-cracking surface
Cold-climate driveways where frost heave splits slabs

Frequently asked questions

How deep should the base be for a paver driveway?: 8 inches of compacted crushed stone for firm, well-drained soil, and 10–12 inches over clay or in freeze-thaw climates. That's roughly double a patio base, because the base - not the pavers - carries the vehicle load.
How thick should driveway pavers be?: At least 2⅜ inches (60 mm). Thinner 45–50 mm patio pavers can crack under a car. Match the paver to a vehicular rating and lay them in herringbone for the best interlock.
Do I need edge restraint and fabric?: Yes on both counts for a driveway. Spiked edge restraint stops the pavers spreading under turning tyres, and a geotextile fabric between soil and stone prevents the base pumping into soft ground.