How to Prepare Paving Stones

Paving stones are ready to be set after the foundation is set, but they need to be prepared to fit in the pathway shape.

Paving stones can be placed in gardens and driveways to make attractive pathways. Paving stones can come in all shapes and sizes which can create very unique pathway designs. A lot of the preparation for the paving stones comes after you lay most of them down and need to make cuts to fit the edges into the pathway.

Things You'll Need

• Paving stones
• Chalk
• PVC pipe pieces or a garden hose
• Handheld cutoff saw

Instructions

1. Lay paving stones down in a pattern so that no large spaces exist between each stone. As you reach the hose or piping perimeter lines on the pathways, mark on the stones with chalk where you will need to cut the paving stones so that they do not overlap the perimeter of the pathway.

2. Remove the stones that you have chalked and that are overlapping the pathway perimeter.

3. Saw the stones on the stone chalk markings so that they will fit and not overlap the edges of the pathway.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to prepare the area where the paving stones will be placed before you have them installed. You will want to clear debris from the area and you may want to add a weed killer to prevent weeds from growing up through the paving stones.

• Use caution when cutting the stones with a saw, and protect your eyes by wearing safety glasses.

References

• The Mold Store: How to Make Molds
• Ground Trade Esxchange: How to Install a Brick Paver Patio

Resources

• Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute
• My Ideal Garden: Find a Path to Your Unique Garden Style
• Simply Paving