Whether you’re building a patio, walkway, pool deck, or outdoor living space, one of the first questions you’ll need to answer is: How much bluestone should I order?
Ordering too little can delay your project and create color-matching challenges, while ordering too much can unnecessarily increase costs. Fortunately, estimating your material needs is straightforward when you know a few basic measurements.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of estimating the amount of Pennsylvania bluestone you’ll need for your next project.
Quick Answer
To estimate how much bluestone you’ll need, measure the length and width of your project in feet, multiply them together to calculate the total square footage, and then add 5–10% for cutting, fitting, and waste. Complex layouts or random-pattern installations may require slightly more.
Step 1: Measure the Length
Using a tape measure or measuring wheel, determine the longest dimension of your project.
Record the measurement in feet.
For example:
Length = 24 feet
STEP 2: MEASURE THE WIDTH
Next, measure the widest part of the project.
Example:
Width = 18 feet
Step 3: Calculate Square Footage
Multiply the length by the width.
Example:
24 feet × 18 feet = 432 square feet
Your patio requires approximately 432 square feet of bluestone before accounting for waste.
Step 4: Add Extra Material
Natural stone projects almost always require cutting and trimming.
It’s recommended to order additional material to account for:
- Cutting around curves
- Trimming edges
- Breakage during installation
- Future repairs
- Pattern adjustments
General Recommendation
- Simple rectangular patios: Add 5%
- Random pattern layouts: Add 10%
- Curved or intricate designs: Add 10–15%
For our example:
432 SF + 10% = 475 square feet
Ordering approximately 475 square feet provides a comfortable margin without excessive overage.
Measuring Irregular Shapes
Not every project is perfectly rectangular.
For curved or irregular patios, divide the space into smaller rectangles and calculate each section separately.
For example:
Section A:
12′ × 14′ = 168 SF
Section B:
10′ × 8′ = 80 SF
Section C:
8′ × 6′ = 48 SF
Total:
168 + 80 + 48 = 296 square feet
Then add your waste allowance.
This method provides a much more accurate estimate than trying to measure the entire shape at once.
Don't Forget Steps, Landings & Borders
Many homeowners calculate only the main patio and forget additional features.
Be sure to include:
- Walkways
- Steps
- Landings
- Pool surrounds (Pool Coping)
- Garden paths
- Border courses
- Outdoor kitchens
- Seating areas
Adding these measurements helps avoid ordering additional stone later.
Estimating Pool Coping
If you’re installing bluestone pool coping, you’ll typically measure by linear feet rather than square feet.
Measure the entire perimeter of the pool to determine how much coping you’ll need.
Example:
16′ × 32′ rectangular pool
Perimeter:
16 + 32 + 16 + 32 = 96 linear feet
As your supplier we can help convert this into the appropriate number of coping pieces based on the selected size.
Estimating Bluestone Steps
For steps, calculate the number of treads needed by counting each stair.
Then determine:
- Tread width
- Tread depth
- Quantity required
Because treads are typically manufactured in standard sizes, as your supplier, we can recommend the most efficient combination.
Why Ordering Extra Matters
Natural stone varies slightly from pallet to pallet.
Having extra material allows you to:
- Match future repairs
- Replace accidental damage
- Maintain consistent color
- Complete future additions
Many contractors recommend saving a few extra pieces after the project is complete for long-term maintenance.
Typical Coverage Examples
Although every project is different, here are some common examples.
Small Garden Patio
12′ × 12′
= 144 SF
Order approximately 152–160 SF
Backyard Patio
16′ × 20′
= 320 SF
Order approximately 336–352 SF
Large Entertainment Patio
24′ × 30′
= 720 SF
Order approximately 756–792 SF
Walkway
4′ × 30′
= 120 SF
Order approximately 126–132 SF
Common Estimating Mistakes
Avoid these common errors:
- Forgetting to include waste
- Measuring only the patio
- Ignoring steps and borders
- Miscalculating irregular shapes
- Ordering exact square footage
- Forgetting future repairs
A few extra square feet today can save considerable time and expense later.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much extra bluestone should I order?
Most projects benefit from ordering 5–10% extra, while highly detailed layouts may require up to 15%.
Should I order extra for future repairs?
Yes. Natural stone varies from quarry to quarry and even between production runs. Keeping a few extra pieces ensures you’ll have matching material if repairs are ever needed.
Is bluestone sold by the square foot?
Most bluestone pavers and slabs are sold by the square foot, while products like coping, treads, and wallstone may be sold by the piece or by linear foot.
How do I estimate an irregular patio?
Divide the project into smaller rectangles, calculate each section individually, and then total the square footage before adding your waste allowance.
Can American Stone & Timber help calculate my project?
Absolutely. If you provide your project dimensions, our experienced team can help estimate the amount of Pennsylvania bluestone needed and recommend the best products for your application.
Get the Right Amount the First Time
Accurate planning is one of the best ways to keep your landscaping project on schedule and within budget. By carefully measuring your project and allowing for cutting and waste, you can confidently order the right amount of Pennsylvania bluestone while minimizing unnecessary expense.
At American Stone & Timber, we proudly supply premium Pennsylvania bluestone for patios, walkways, pool decks, steps, and outdoor living spaces. Whether you’re a homeowner tackling your first project or a contractor managing a large installation, our knowledgeable team can help you estimate materials and choose the right products with confidence.
Contact us today to discuss your project and receive expert guidance on selecting the perfect Pennsylvania bluestone.
