1. What is a Paving Slab Mortar Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the amount of mortar needed for paving slab projects based on area, bedding depth, mortar ratio, and yield per bag.

Purpose: It helps landscapers and DIYers determine how many bags of mortar are required for laying paving slabs.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( M \) — Mortar volume (number of bags)
• \( A \) — Area to be paved (square feet)
• \( D \) — Bedding depth (inches, converted to feet in calculation)
• \( R \) — Mortar ratio (unitless)
• \( Y \) — Yield per bag (cubic feet per bag)

Explanation: The area multiplied by depth gives volume, adjusted by the mortar ratio, then divided by yield to get number of bags.

3. Importance of Mortar Calculation

Details: Proper mortar estimation ensures stable paving, prevents slab movement, and helps with accurate material purchasing.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the area in square feet, bedding depth (default 1.5 inches), mortar ratio (default 1), and yield per bag (default 0.3 ft³/bag). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical bedding depth?
A: Most paving slabs require 1-2 inches of mortar bedding, with 1.5 inches being common for standard applications.

Q2: What does the mortar ratio represent?
A: The ratio accounts for mortar composition (e.g., 1:4 cement:sand would use ratio 1.25). Default is 1 for standard mixes.

Q3: How do I find the yield per bag?
A: Check the manufacturer's specifications on the mortar bag. Typical yield is 0.3 ft³ per 40lb bag.

Q4: Should I add extra for waste?
A: Yes, consider adding 5-10% to the calculated amount for spillage and uneven surfaces.

Q5: Does this include joint mortar?
A: No, this calculates only bedding mortar. Use a separate joint calculator for pointing.