How much does it cost to build a paver patio yourself?
About $880 in materials for a 12 x 12 ft patio (144 sq ft).
Planning estimate only. The unit prices are our stated assumptions, not store quotes or survey data, so check them against your local supplier.
Do it yourself (materials)
$880
Hire it out
Not modelled
Worked example: a 12 x 12 ft patio (144 sq ft)
| Item | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Pavers, 144 sq ft plus 10% waste | $550 |
| Compacted gravel base, 2.7 cubic yards | $120 |
| Bedding sand, 0.4 cubic yards | $24 |
| Polymeric sand, 3 bags | $96 |
| Edging, 48 ft | $84 |
| Total | $880 |
Assumptions
- Planning prices, not store quotes: pavers $3.50 per sq ft, gravel $45 and sand $55 per cubic yard
- 6 in base, 1 in bedding sand, 10% paver waste
- Plate compactor rental, excavation and soil haul-off are extra
What changes the price
- Base depth drives the budget. Driveways and soft or freezing soils need more base than a light patio.
- A plate compactor and a saw are usually rentals, and getting rid of excavated soil can be a real line item.
- Paver prices vary a lot by style. Replace our planning price with the one on your store's shelf.
Price your own project
We do not have a dedicated calculator for this job yet. Swap in your own measurements and local prices using the assumptions above.
Also useful: Gravel calculator, Paver patio cheat sheet
FAQ
How much does it cost to build a paver patio yourself?
Where do these numbers come from?
More DIY cost estimates: cost to install gutters yourself, cost to paint a room yourself, cost to drywall a room yourself, cost to tile a floor yourself, cost to build a deck yourself, cost to build a fence yourself, cost to reshingle a roof yourself, cost to install flooring yourself, cost to pour a concrete slab yourself, cost to insulate an attic yourself, cost to install vinyl siding yourself.