How to Lay Paving Stones in Concrete
Laying paving stones in concrete gives them a permanence not found with sand or gravel bases. This is the preferred base for close-fitting paving stones arranged in specific patterns.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Crushed Rocks
- Gravel
- Paving Stones
- Sand
- Shovels
- 2-by-4 Boards
- Cement
- Levels
- Mallets
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1
Remove turf and topsoil to a depth of the stone plus 2 inches. If you plan to park cars on the paved area, dig farther to allow for a 4-inch sub-base of crushed rock as well.
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2
Allow for drainage by creating a slight slope away from nearby buildings. A drop of 1/2 inch per yard is about right.
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3
Spread 1 inch of sand across the bottom of the area. (Add the sub-base of crushed rock first if applicable.)
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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
Position the stones and the borders in the sand. This is where they'll be when you're finished, so be precise when laying them out.
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6
Mix 1 part cement with 4 parts sand and add enough water to make a mortar.
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7
Begin at a corner and remove 4 stones. Spread the mortar 1 1/2 to 2 inches thick in the open space where the stones were.
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8
Set the stones back in place in the mortar. Tap each with a mallet (buffered by a block of wood) as you go. You want to make sure that each stone is set evenly.
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9
Place 1/4-inch-wide wooden spacers between the stones as you lay them. Use scrap wood to make these.
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10
Use a 2-by-4 board and a carpenter's level as you go to make sure the stones are level.
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11
Pull the spacers out before the mortar dries.
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12
Let the mortar set for at least 36 hours. Avoid allowing any weight on the stones, or they may wobble later.
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13
Finish the project by mixing 1 part dry cement and 3 parts dry sand. Sprinkle this into the spaces between the stones and brush away any excess.
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14
Go over the entire area with a very fine spray of water to wet the cement-and-sand mixture.
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15
Expect the surface to set within 48 hours.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Accurate measurements are very important when laying pavers in close patterns.
Keep the top level about 3/4 inch below the height of the lawn; you'll be able to mow right up to the edge without worrying about damaging your mower.
Consider renting a power plate vibrator. This machine looks something like a lawnmower with a flat metal plate in the bottom. Go over the entire area to press the stones into place and ensure that they're level.
Don't attempt this project if there's a chance of rain. The mortar won't hold if it's too wet.
