How to Lay Block Paving

Laying block paving allows you to create a walkway or patio area that adds a special dimension to your yard or landscaping. Though this project often requires copious amounts of planning and design, failing to complete this part of the project can result in delayed construction. You should use only hard blocks when paving. Soft brick tends to crack and cannot handle the weight of everyday use. The layout pattern and joint type between pavers is another decision you should make before stating the project.

Things You'll Need

• Brick set
• Hammer
• 2-by-4-inch lumber
• Crushed rock
• Sand
• Shovel
• Spade
• Level
• Broom
• Heavy tamp
• Stakes
• String

Instructions

1. Measure the area where you want to lay the pavers. Plant stakes and attach string so you have a basic guide for your layout. Walkways should be 4 feet across; patios should be about 500 square feet.

2. Dig out grass or plants in the paving area. You should remove about 6 inches of soil before adding the paving material.

3. Grade the soil flat using the 2-by-4. Sloping the patio or walkway 1 inch for every 8 feet is common to direct water away from structures.

4. Place edging on the side of your dug-out area. This prevents the soil from caving in and also acts as a guide for the block pavers. You can remove the edging later if necessary.

5. Lay the crushed rock in your block paver area. Tamp down firmly, ensuring the layer is about 1/2 inch all the way around the area.

6. Spread the sand over the crushed rock. Smooth the sand with the 2-by-4. You can also rest the 2-by-4 over the sand and place the level on top to ensure the sand is level.

7. Place the block pavers on the sand, starting in rows. Work your way across the path, laying blocks in sections of a few feet to ensure your desired pattern is correct. Avoid cutting too many blocks; the cut blocks typically will shift more.

8. Tamp blocks into place. This ensures firm connection with the sand beneath the block pavers.

9. Throw sand over the bricks. Sweep excess sand into the spaces between the blocks to ensure no space is left open.

References

• University of Missouri: Building Brick Walls and Patios
• University of Florda: Selecting Paving Materials