How to Make a Paver Patio Without Using Concrete to Set It
Building a paver patio over a sand and gravel base is a relatively simple project. There are a number of reasons to build a paver patio instead of pouring a concrete slab. For example, water or sewer lines may run under the space, the patio may be a temporary structure or the budget-friendly pavers may be an attractive option to a frugal homeowner. In any case, a paver patio is a pleasant place to set up a table and chairs for family and friends to gather and enjoy the warm summer weather. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Shovel
- Rake
- Plate compactor
- 4 boards, pressure treated, 2 by 6 inches
- 8 to 12 stakes
- Hammer
- Deck screws, 1 inch
- Drill with screwdriver bit
- Gravel
- Sand
- Broom
Instructions
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1
Measure the patio space. Square patio pavers are generally 12 by 12 inches, although larger sizes are readily available. Add 2 inches around the outside perimeter of the patio for the border.
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2
Remove the grass and soil to a depth of 6 inches. Place the excavated grass and soil in low spots in the yard or on the compost pile. Rake the patio space smooth.
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3
Pound 3 stakes into the ground along each side of the patio space, next to the grass and extending 2 inches above the level of the grass. Place 1 stake at each end, approximately 1 foot from the corner, and center the third stake between them.
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4
Place a paver next to each stake as a spacer. Set a 2-by-6 board on edge onto the pavers, butting up to the stakes.
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5
Screw through the stakes and into the board. Remove the pavers and finish pounding the stakes into the ground, so the board extends 1/4 inch above the ground. Repeat with the remaining 2-by-6 boards, butting together in the corners, to make a border around the patio.
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6
Compact the soil with the plate compactor. Add 4 inches of gravel, raking evenly over the space, and compact again.
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7
Pour 2 inches of sand over the gravel, raking evenly over the space. Sprinkle lightly with water and compact with the plate compactor.
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8
Arrange the pavers on the sand, starting in one corner and working your way across the patio. Add or remove sand as needed to ensure the pavers sit securely on the sand base. Tap the pavers into place with a rubber mallet.
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9
Pour sand onto the patio. Using the broom, sweep into any crevices. Sprinkle with water and add more sand as needed. Repeat in the spring and fall to replace any sand that washed away during cleaning or the rainy season.
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Tips & Warnings
Pavers are available in a number of sizes and shapes. Consult with the vendor when purchasing other sizes of pavers.
Have the materials delivered to your driveway. Most small trucks are not built to carry heavy loads of pavers, gravel and sand.
Plate compactors are available at rental centers and some garden supply stores.
Redwood or cedar boards may be used instead of pressure-treated lumber.
Use river rocks as a border instead of 2-by-6 boards if setting the patio into a naturalized garden bed or next to a water feature. Bury the rocks halfway into the soil.
Use recycled and found materials as decorative elements between the pavers.
Wear gloves and safety glasses when digging and moving pavers.
This project requires lifting, stooping and kneeling; use proper lifting techniques to protect your back and knees.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Goodshoot/Goodshoot/Getty Images
