Paver edging calculator
Edging is what keeps pavers from creeping apart. Enter the perimeter you're restraining — get the linear feet, piece count by product length, and how many spikes to buy.
Edging needed
How much edging do I need?
Measure the perimeter of the paver field — for a 16 × 16 ft square patio that's 64 linear ft, plus a bit where the edging turns corners. Round up to whole pieces of whatever product you're using:
Worked example: a 64 ft patio edge in 8 ft pieces = 8 pieces plus 17 spikes (one every 4 ft, plus one to start).
Which edging to use
| Type | Price / ft | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Flexible plastic (HDPE) | $0.60–$1.20 | Curves, standard patios — the default choice |
| Rigid PVC or composite | $1–$2 | Long straight runs, clean modern lines |
| Steel (¼ in) | $3–$6 | Driveways, hardscape that must last decades |
| Aluminum | $4–$8 | Decorative visible edges, won't rust |
Installation that actually holds
Set edging on the compacted base, against the pavers, before you sweep the joint sand. Spikes (10–12 in steel, 3/8 in head) go every 4 ft on straights — tighten that to every 12 in on curves, and one spike at every piece splice. Bury the edging so the top sits just below the paver field; exposed plastic weathers and pops.
Rectangular patio 16×16? Paver count and base tonnage are on their own calculators — edging is the last piece of the order list.