How to Install Pavers

Enhancing your outdoor space with pavers is a great way to create a durable and attractive surface for walkways, patios, and driveways. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your paver installation is a success. Depending on project goals, techniques will vary by product and location.

Equipment Needed

• Broom
• Concrete saw
• Guide string
• Gloves
• Hammer (2-3 lb.)
• Knee pads
• Pencil
• Plate compactor
• Rake
• Level
• Leveling board (wood 2″ x 4″, 8′-10′ long)
• Leveling guides (two, 1″ diameter pipes or wood, 10′ long)
• Shovel
• Spray paint
• Stakes
• Tape measure
• Safety glasses
• Trowel
• Wheelbarrow

Getting Started

Layout Design

Begin by designing your layout on paper. Visualizing your project helps in making necessary adjustments before breaking ground.

Estimate Materials

Calculate the amount of pavers, edge restraints, coarse granular base, and bedding sand you'll need. Having the right amount of materials on hand ensures a smooth installation process. If you need help determining coverage for individual products, your local SiteOne branch would be happy to assist.

Ground Preparation

1. Use marking paint to transfer your design onto the ground at the site. This step helps clearly outline the area where you'll be installing the pavers.
    
2. Use stakes and guide string to mark the top of the desired finished surface. For proper drainage, plan for a minimal slope: 1″ of vertical elevation for every 8′ of horizontal surface.
    
3. Excavate the ground below the surface guide string line to the desired depth. Ensure the excavation aligns with your design and drainage slope requirements.
    
4. Spread a layer of coarse granular base 3″ below the surface guide string. Dampen and compact the base using a plate compactor. Avoid walking on the compacted base to maintain its level surface.

Installing Pavers

1. Begin by installing edge restraints along the starting edge. This will keep the pavers in place and maintain the integrity of your design.
    
2. Spread a 1″ layer of bedding sand over the compacted base. Use leveling boards and guides to ensure the sand is evenly distributed.
    
3. Start laying the pavers, keeping them level with the surface guide string. Use additional guide strings to keep the pavers square and aligned with your design.
    
4. Use a concrete saw to cut pavers as needed to fit your layout. Ensure that the cuts are precise and the pavers fit snugly.

Finishing

1. Secure edge restraints along the remaining edges of your installation to keep the pavers in place.
    
2. Use a plate compactor over the entire surface to set the pavers firmly into the bedding sand.
    
3. Sweep polymeric sand into all the spaces between the pavers and water in to activate. After two days, repeat this step to ensure all gaps are filled and the pavers are securely in place.

By following these steps, you can create a beautiful, durable paver surface that enhances your outdoor space and stands the test of time. For any additional help or resources, contact your local SiteOne Landscape Supply branch or visit our technical support page.