How to Lay Paving Stones in Gravel

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Laying pavers in gravel creates a pleasing effect and is ideal for areas with a lot of rain or wind. Use gravel when laying stones in random patterns or in arrangements with spaces between the stones.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Crushed Rocks
Gravel
Garden Rakes
Paving Stones
Sand
Shovels
2-by-4 Boards
Levels
Mallets

Step1

Remove turf and topsoil to a depth of the stone plus 1 1/2 inches.

Step2

Build a retaining border to keep the gravel from migrating into flowerbeds or your lawn. It can be made of weather-treated wood, brick, or plastic edging.

Step3

Lay a shallow layer (about an inch) of sand. Spread it with a rake.

Step4

Level the sand with a 2-by-4 by dragging the board's edge across the sand and frequently tamping it down.

Step5

Arrange the stones in a suitable pattern, keeping the smaller ones toward the center and the larger ones at the perimeter.

Step6

Tap each stone as you go with a mallet buffered by a block of wood. You want to make sure each stone is set evenly and isn't going to wobble.

Step7

Use a 2-by-4 board and a carpenter's level as you go, making sure the stones are level.

Step8

Pour gravel in small piles along the drive or walkway and sweep it between the stones with a garage broom.

Step9

Sweep sand (matching the color of the gravel) over the top of the surface and water thoroughly.

Tips & Warnings

Because of their shape, you may need to build up the spaces below some of the stones with sand as you're setting them. Don't use other stones, as these will eventually break off and the stone above will sink.
Consider renting a plate vibrator. Go over the entire area to press the stones into place and ensure that they're level.
If you plan to park cars on the paved area, lay a 4-inch sub-base of crushed rock below the sand to add stability.