How to Install Pavers on a Concrete Driveway
Pavers are a type of building material used in outdoor construction and landscaping. They are often used to create patios and driveways, and are known for their durability and strength. Most pavers are installed over a gravel base, which is topped with sand. They can also be installed over existing concrete, as long as the concrete is in good shape. In this type of application, the concrete takes the place of the traditional gravel base, and the sand bed is placed directly onto the concrete. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Pavers
- Edge restraints
- Lawn spikes
- Rubber mallet
- Sand
- 2x4 lumber
- Plate compactor (can be rented)
- Garden hose
- Wet saw with diamond blade
Instructions
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1
Choose your pavers. Most brick pavers are not designed to withstand vehicle traffic and should not be used in the driveway. Choose concrete or stone pavers instead, which are strong enough to hold up against heavy loads.
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2
Install edge restraints around the edge of the driveway. These units are made from metal, PVC or wood, and are designed to hold the pavers in place as you work. Place them around the concrete driveway and hold them in place using lawn spikes. The lawn spikes should be driven into the surrounding soil using a rubber mallet.
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3
Cover the concrete with a one-inch layer of sand. Use a 2x4 to spread the sand evenly across the surface.
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4
Add your pavers. Place them onto the sand bed in the desired pattern, them tap them in place firmly using your rubber mallet. Cut pavers as needed using a wet saw with a diamond blade.
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5
Pour masonry sand on top of the pavers when the driveway is complete. Use a broom and/or trowel to force the sand into the joints between the pavers.
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6
Run a plate compactor over the pavers to help secure them into the sand bed. You may need to repeat Step 5 to fill the joints between the pavers, as the sand tends to settle during compaction.
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7
Repeat Steps 5 and 6 until the sand joints are level with the top of the pavers. Spray the driveway with a garden hose to remove excess sand and complete the project.
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Tips & Warnings
It is critical that your driveway slopes away from the house slightly to avoid water damage at your foundations. If your concrete driveway does not slope by at least 3/16 inch, consider removing the concrete driveway and regrading the soil before adding pavers.
