How many paving slabs do I need?

Measure in square metres

Sketch the area and break awkward shapes into rectangles. Add the rectangles together, and round up rather than down. If the patio steps around a corner or a manhole, keep the full rectangle in the figure — you will use the offcuts elsewhere.

Include the joints

A slab's laid coverage includes the joint around it. A 600 x 600mm slab with a 10mm joint effectively covers 610 x 610mm, which slightly reduces the number of slabs per square metre. On a small patio the difference is marginal; across a large area it matters.

Allow for cuts and breakages

Add roughly 10% for straightforward rectangular layouts. Allow more — 15% or so — where you have diagonal cuts, curves, circular features or a bond pattern that produces a lot of part slabs.

Mixed-size and patterned packs

Many paving ranges are sold as project packs covering a set number of square metres in a repeating pattern. With these, order by coverage and keep to the supplied layout drawing. Mixing packs from different batches can show slight shade variation, so it is better to order the full quantity in one go.

Don't forget the bedding and jointing

Slabs are only part of the order. You will also need bedding material and a jointing product suited to the paving and its use. Tell us the paving you are laying and what it is for, and we will confirm what to order alongside it.

Not sure what to order? Send your measurements through our quote form and we will work the quantities out with you, or call the yard on 01483359553.