DIY Paver Stones
Installing paver stones is not a small job. It requires time, patience and intense labor. However, there are several benefits to doing the job yourself. First, you can save money. Second, you get the satisfaction of building something with your bare hands. Third, you get some exercise in the process. Although there are several ways to install paver stones, you should use the dry installation method to save time. This method uses a compacted gravel base and sand bed rather than mortar and grout. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- 4 stakes
- String
- Shovel
- Hand tamper
- Gravel base material
- Two-by-four
- Level
- Flexible edge with spikes
- Hammer
- Bedding sand
- 2 screed rails
- Paving stones
- Rubber mallet
- Paver spacers (optional)
- Bonding sand
- Hose
Instructions
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1
Plan and measure the area where you want to install the paver stones. Mark off the border of the area with stakes in each corner. Tie a string around each stake.
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2
Excavate the area within the stakes. For driveways, your hole should be six inches plus the height of the paving stone. For walkways and patios, your hole should be four inches plus the height of the stone.
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3
Add a 3-inch gravel base within the excavation area. Compact the base material thoroughly with a hand tamper, or rent a plate compactor from a home improvement or landscaping shop.
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4
Set a two-by-four on top of the gravel surface. Place a level on top, and check to make sure your patio runs away from any nearby buildings. If it's level or running downward toward your house, add more gravel at the end closest to your house and compact it down. This helps the pavers drain properly and prevents flooding in your house.
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5
Insert a screed rail along the edge of each of the two longest sides of the excavation area. Add a 1-inch layer of bedding sand between the two screed rails on top of the gravel surface. Drag a two-by-four across the rails to level out the sand.
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6
Set the paver stones one by one atop the sand. Tap each stone into place with a rubber mallet. Leave about 1/8 inch of space between the stones. Use paver spacers if necessary.
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7
Install an edge. Line a flexible edge along your two longest sides. Pound stakes through the edging slots and into the ground, then secure the edge on each side.
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8
Pour bonding sand into the joints between the pavers. Sweep any excess sand off the surface and spray a light mist onto the joints so the sand sets properly. Wait 24 hours, then your pavers will be ready to walk on.
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References
- Photo Credit Thomas Northcut/Lifesize/Getty Images
