Installing Patio Pavers 101

·  Step 1

The first step is to determine the size or area of the paver patio by square foot. This will figure into the estimate of materials needed later. Mark off the area with a can of spray paint, slightly larger to allow for paver edge restraints and a footing base at the borders of the patio.

·  Step 2

Estimate the materials needed, choose desired pavers. Our store will be able to provide you with the base material and pallet requirements to complete your job.

·  Step 3

Digging and preparing is essential for a paver base and will be the most time consuming process. Excavate by shovel or loader if available.  Make base 6"-8" below desired height of patio, the pavers will take 2" of that so the gravel base under the pavers will be 4"- 6".

·  Step 4

Grade the patio base with a 2X4 to get an even and sloped base for water runoff.  Slope slightly to where desired water should run off.  For larger patios, 2 2X4’s may be needed so they would have to be nailed together. If your patio is next to a concrete driveway or bordering concrete or timbers, then use a modified 2X4 to grade along that border. Take the time to get level, and re-grade after compaction is done.

·  Step 5

Use a plate compactor or like compaction device to get a good solid base for the pavers. If the gravel is too dry, lightly wet it down with a garden hose to make it pack better. Grade and level additional times after each compaction until complete. 

·  Step 6

 Fine grade with mason sand the same way grading was done earlier, this final grade evens out the rough gravel grade and allows for a nice even base for the pavers. This is only an inch or less layer of sand to maintain the proper grade.

·  Step 7

Lay the pavers in the desired pattern, for pattern ideas ask our office staff.  We will be happy to assist you.  Get the pavers as tight as possible, start from a point or house foundation to allow for the best looking pattern. Keep in mind pavers will need to be cut with a saw and diamond paver blade if patio area has curves or obstacles. Square patios may not need any cutting and depends on the pattern you choose. Install your pavers then mark the ones to be cut.  Cutting is the final step after your pavers have been placed into the sand. 

·  Step 8

Finally, use edge restraint and secure with spikes about 2' apart or less for more strength. Sweep polymeric sand into the cracks to secure the pavers. Use the compactor to pack the paver patio and allow the sand to fall in the cracks better. You may need to sweep more sand into any remaining cracks.  Some suggest to put cardboard or fabric under the compactor as to not damage pavers.   Your final step will be adding topsoil around your edge. 

 Seed and Straw.