How to Install Interlocking Patio Stone

Add plants to decorate your new stone patio.

Build an interlocking stone patio to use as a relaxing oasis for enjoying the cool of the evening with friends and family. Enjoy a meal or a glass of wine on the patio away from the demands of the outside world and feel the tension melt away.

Things You'll Need

• Stakes
• String
• Shovel
• Weed prevention fabric
• Crushed stone
• Level
• Tamper
• Rock dust
• Sand
• Patio stone
• Wet Saw
• Hammer
• Chisel
• Push broom

Instructions

1. Place stakes into the ground to outline the area for the patio. Run strings from stake to stake to designate the outer perimeters. Measure the area and multiply the width by the length to determine square footage. Order the patio stone adding five percent to allow for breakage or bad cuts.

2. Remove the grass or sod from the area within the strings to a depth of 8 to 10 inches. Skim off the sod with a sharp shovel before attempting to dig out the remainder of the soil. Maintain a level ground surface as much as possible.

3. Roll out a layer of weed prevention fabric, overlapping the seams by 3 inches. Spread a layer of crushed stone over the fabric to a depth of six inches. Spread the stone with a rake and use a level periodically to determine areas that need more or less stone. Tamp the stone with a motorized tamper, which can be rented by the day from rental centers.

4. Spread a layer of rock dust or coarse sand to a depth of two inches and pack down with the tamper. Place a stake at the center of the width and length on each side of the patio. Run strings from stake to stake placing the string close to the surface of the sand. The "X" formed by the strings is the center of the patio.

5. Begin in the center and lay the patio stones working outward toward the perimeters. Interlock the first four stones centered on the "X" formed by the strings and continue working outward to lock the patio stones in place. The outer perimeter patio stones may require cutting if you prefer square outer edges. Cut the patio stone with a wet saw or use a hammer and chisel. Wear eye protection when cutting the stone.

6. Sprinkle sand liberally onto the patio blocks and sweep the sand into the joints in the patio stones with a push broom. Sprinkle the joints in the patio stone with water to set the sand into place. Run the tamper over the patio stones to lock them into place.

Tips & Warnings

• Install edging around the perimeters of the patio to maintain a clean crisp edge.

References

• Iowa State University: Installing Interlocking Concrete Pavers: Part One
• Louisana State University: Help Prevent Erosion
• HGTV: Steps to Make a Paver Entryway

Resources

• Ask the Builder: Brick Patios: Two Methods of Installation