How to Lay Patio Block
- 1). Measure the dimensions you'll need for the patio site and insert wooden pegs at the four corners. Wrap a string around the pegs to create an outline of the space.
- 2). Use a spade and shovel to cut straight lines through the sod, and remove plants and soil until the site is level and 8 inches below the lowest-lying area of the site. Beginning near the house, make the surface 1 inch deeper every 4 feet so the surface will be sloped enough for water to run away from the home's foundation.
- 3). Run a vibrating plate compactor over the site to stabilize the soil. If you don't own a compactor machine, you can rent one from a construction company or hardware store, or use a hand tamper. Place landscape fabric over the soil to prevent weeds from developing and to give the site better drainage.
- 4). Add 3 inches of gravel over the surface, spread it even with a rake and compact it. Add another 3 inches of gravel and compact the surface, maintaining the slight slope.
- 5). Place edging around the interior sides of the site and drive 10-inch nail spikes through the edging holes to fasten it to the ground.
- 6). Cover the gravel with 2 inches of coarse sand and rake the sand until it is smooth.
- 7). Set the paver blocks according to your pattern, starting at a inner corner of the patio. Push the blocks into the sand and leave about 1/8 inch of space between the blocks. Use the level and adjust the stones as necessary until the blocks are even with one another.
- 8). Fill the 1/8-inch joints with fine sand to cushion the blocks as they settle and keep them from shifting. Continue packing the sand until the joints are filled.
- 9). Add a coat of sealant over the patio block surface to lock the sand joints in place and preserve the color of the patio blocks.