How to Put in Pavers
- 1). Decide on the location for the paver surface, and determine the size and shape. Mark out this area with landscaping paint, adding 2 inches on every side for the edging material.
- 2). Remove 8 inches of soil from the outlined site with a shovel. Flatten the ground at the bottom of the hole with a tamper tool.
- 3). Lay 5 inches of gravel over the site and spread it equally. Tamp the gravel until the rocks don't move under your feet.
- 4). Place edging restraints against the inside edges of the site. Use wood or metal for angled surfaces and flexible edging made of plastic for curved surfaces. Hammer 9-inch spikes through pre-cut holes to fasten the edging to the ground.
- 5). Rake 1 inch of grit sand over the gravel. This course sand creates friction between the pavers and base, keeping them from shifting.
- 6). Set the pavers in the sand bed according to your pattern. Butt them against each other so the joints are as narrow as possible. Level the pavers by placing a wood board over each section and walking on it.
- 7). Sweep stone dust or fine sand over the patio or walkway once the pavers are in place. Work the material back and forth with a shop broom until it falls into the crevices. Sand or stone dust joints pad pavers and keep debris from building between them.