How to Lay Paving Stones in Gravel
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.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Crushed Rocks
- Gravel
- Garden Rakes
- Paving Stones
- Sand
- Shovels
- 2-by-4 Boards
- Levels
- Mallets
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1
Remove turf and topsoil to a depth of the stone plus 1 1/2 inches.
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2
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.
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3
Lay a shallow layer (about an inch) of sand. Spread it with a rake.
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4
Level the sand with a 2-by-4 by dragging the board's edge across the sand and frequently tamping it down.
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5
Arrange the stones in a suitable pattern, keeping the smaller ones toward the center and the larger ones at the perimeter.
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6
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.
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7
Use a 2-by-4 board and a carpenter's level as you go, making sure the stones are level.
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8
Pour gravel in small piles along the drive or walkway and sweep it between the stones with a garage broom.
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9
Sweep sand (matching the color of the gravel) over the top of the surface and water thoroughly.
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1
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.
