How to Install Concrete Pavers

Pavers are especially useful for small gardens. They come in different materials, from bricks to clays to natural stones. Another type is that which is made of concrete. Concrete pavers and blocks are durable, unlike clays and bricks that may crumble overtime.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Color spray or landscaper's chalk
• Carpenter's tape measure
• Shovel
• Compacted hardcore topped with ballast
• Mortar
• Concrete pavers
• Trowel
• Pointing trowel
• Spirit-level
• Concrete mixer
• Spacers
• Water

1. Mark the location where you will plant to put your concrete pavers by using a colored spray or landscaper's chalk.

2. Excavate or dig the area using a shovel. The depth of the area should should about 2 inches of compacted hardcore topped with about 1 to 2 inches of ballast. Do not forget to add the measurement of mortar and the thickness of paving material, so digging approximately 6 to 7 inches should work.

3. Check the depth of the foundation before you lay the paving. If it is situated close to the house, make use that the paving is lower than the damp-proof course.

4. Mix the concrete mortar. You can also buy pre-mixed mortar to save time. Put about five blobs of mortar where the concrete pavers will be placed. Place the blobs one at each corner of the square and one at the center.

5. Cover the area with additional mortar where the concrete paving will be laid, then level the mixture.

6. Position each concrete paver or slab carefully, bedding it on the mortar.

7. Use a spirit-level to check that the paving is leveled. Ensure that you give the paving a slight slope so that water will flow down freely to avoid puddle formation during heavy rains. To create a slight slope, use a small wedge of wood and place under one end.

8. Tap the concrete paver down further, or raise it by lifting and pacing in a little more mortar. Position the level over more than one concrete paver.

9. Ensure that there is regular spacing in between the concrete pavers by using spacers of even thickness. Remove the spacers before the joints are filled with mortar. Leave it to set or dry overnight; preferably one to two days.

10. Fill in the joints with mortar using a small pointing trowel. This can be used to finish off the mortar with smooth stroke to give a slight recessed to the joints. Wash off any surplus mortar before it dries to allow for an even finish.