How to Lay Brick Paving Stones

Be sure you're using paving bricks and not regular bricks. Pavers are resistant to spalling - flaking caused by moisture and cold. Modular bricks are even better and are recommended in areas that will be traveled by heavy vehicles.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Gravel
• Gravel
• Brooms
• Garden Stakes
• Paving Stones
• Sand
• Shovels
• 2-by-4 Boards
• Levels
• Sledge Hammers
• Shovels

1. Install the edging at ground level. This can be made with edging boards treated with wood preservative or additional bricks. Wood should be supported with deep-driven stakes; brick should be set in a 4-inch concrete foundation. The idea is to keep the sand and gravel from spreading below the pavers.

2. Lay 4 inches of gravel.

3. Cover the gravel with 2 to 3 inches of sand.

4. Level the sand with the side of a 2-by-4 board and a carpenter's level. The depth should allow a brick laid on the sand to rise 1/4 inch above the top of the edging.

5. Lay the bricks in the desired pattern.

6. Go over the entire paved area with a plate vibrator. You can get one at an equipment rental store.

7. Use a garage broom to sweep dry sand between the bricks and go over the area again with the plate vibrator.

Tips & Warnings

• If a plate vibrator isn't available, you can also tamp the bricks down by laying a 2-by-4 board across several bricks and giving it a good pounding with a sledgehammer. Be careful not to damage the individual bricks if you do this.
• Never step on the sand once it's level. Use a wide board to spread your weight if you must cross it.