How to Install Landscaping Pavers
Landscaping pavers add appeal to any yard. You can choose from a number of designs and use them to create a patio area, walkway or driveway. Pavers come in brick, stone or concrete. You could hire professionals to install pavers in your yard or you could do it yourself and save money. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Crushed stone
- Compacting machine
- Edging material
- Course sand
- Pavers
- Mechanical splitter or saw
- Safety glasses
- Broom
- Fine sand
- Sand-binding sealant
Instructions
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1
Create a base for the landscaping pavers. Lay down several inches of crushed stone, such as gravel or limestone. The thickness will depend on the softness of the ground. If you're dealing with clay, for example, use a thicker layer. Spread the crushed stone in three layers.
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2
Go over the stone in a circular motion with a compacting machine.
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3
Place edgers around the boundary of the area to be paved. They will keep the pavers from separating.
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4
Spread sand over the stone. Make the layer 1 1/2 inches thick, so there is enough for the pavers to sit in, but not enough to sink into.
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5
Lay down landscaping pavers in your chosen design. Put them as close together as possible. Cut them to size, if needed, with a mechanical splitter or saw.
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6
Compact the landscaping pavers into place using a mechanical compactor. Run the machine over the area several times to press the pavers into the sand.
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7
Sweep sand over the paved surface to fill the joints. Use dry, fine-grained sand because it compacts quickly and firmly.
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8
Protect the landscaping pavers with a sand-binding sealant to keep the sand in the joints from eroding. It will also prevent stains and keep weeds from growing between the pavers. Follow the sealant manufacturer's instructions.
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Tips & Warnings
Wear safety glasses when operating a mechanical splitter or saw.
Seal the landscaping pavers again if their color fades.
Sweep and clean the pavers regularly for the best appearance and function.
