Pattern page

Stack bond calculator

Stack bond lines pavers up in a straight grid, with every joint running through in both directions. It looks tidy and modern, especially with square pavers and large slabs. The calculator starts with a 20 × 20 cm square paver, which means 25 pavers per m² without joints.

Where stack bond works

Patios, seating areas and paths with straight edges suit it best. On driveways it is the weaker choice: the continuous joints let pavers shift under braking and turning. There, herringbone is the usual pick.

Keeping the grid true

Because the joints run straight, small deviations add up and become visible over a few metres. Run string lines in both directions and keep the joint width constant with spacers. The optimizer can suggest a joint width at which full pavers reach the edge, so the grid ends cleanly.

A diagonal grid

The planner also offers the Diagonal pattern for square and rectangular pavers. It turns the grid by 45°, which looks livelier but cuts every edge paver at an angle. Compare the cut counts of both before you order.

FAQ

Stack bond or running bond?

Running bond hides small errors better and interlocks more. Stack bond has the cleaner look but needs more care when laying.

How many pavers do I need?

25 per m² at 20 × 20 cm without joints. The shopping list adds joints and your waste allowance for the exact outline.

Key figures for this scenario

The figures come from the same formulas the planner uses. They leave out joints and waste; the planner's shopping list adds both for your surface shape.

Paver format
Standard square paver (200x200 mm)
Laying pattern
Stack bond
Pavers per m²
25
Load class
Pedestrian
Base layer
20 cm crushed stone 0/32 mm
Bedding layer
4 cm grit 2/5 mm
Excavation depth
30 cm

Example: a 20 m² surface

For 20 m² you need about 500 pavers, 4.8 m³ of crushed stone (about 8.16 t, including a 20% compaction reserve) and 0.8 m³ of grit (about 1.2 t). Dig about 30 cm deep: 20 cm of base, 4 cm of bedding and 6 cm of paver.

Send feedback

Type of post

Approved feedback is public. Please don't include personal data such as your email address or phone number.Privacy policy