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For many, the do-it-yourself (DIY) option has become a standard choice. After all, in today’s society, the internet provides easy access to tutorials, videos, and professional guidelines. While we recommend hiring a professional, below are the DIY paver basics to get the patio you always wanted.
Step 1. Prepare Your Plan
Before you start digging, you need to plan your patio. This includes knowing the types of pavers available to you, as well as the pattern you want to lay them in and the area they will cover. You need to consider the things that will be placed on your patio, like a grill. Heavier objects will need thicker pavers. You will also need to check with local building codes, your HOA if you have one, and check if you have any underground utilities.
Step 2. Prepare the Area
First, you need to mark the area where you intend to install your patio. Using strings and batter boards, create your ideal shape. (If you are adding curves, use a hose to line the way!) Once you have your intended shape, you need to remove the grass and dirt covering the area. You will also need to add a slope. (Experts recommend a slope of 1-inch per every 4 feet. The slope should go away from your home to allow water to flow away from your house’s foundation.) In addition, if you plan on installing landscape lighting, you should bury the cable now. Tamp the area down with a plate compactor.
Step 3. Install the Foundation
As with most other things on your property, your patio requires a foundation. The first layer of your foundation is a gravel paver base. Your gravel base layer will need to be 6-inches deep. At 2- to 3-inch intervals, you should wet your gravel and run a plate compactor over it. (Remember to keep your slope intact!) Once you have finished the gravel layer, you will add leveling sand. To help, lay 1-inch PVC pipes across the area. Pour sand between the PVC pipes. Using a 2×4, screed the sand to create your work surface. Remove the PVC pipes, fill in the small gaps. Now you are ready to install your pavers!
Step 4. Install the Pavers
If you have a hard edge, like your house, it is best to start laying pavers against it. It is helpful to run strings that are low to the ground to keep your pavers lined up. You will want to keep a gap between the pavers for the paver sand to be installed later. While you work, periodically check to ensure your pavers are installed evenly. If they are too high or too low, add sand or use a rubber mallet to tamp them down. (While you work, remember that all important slope!) Some blocks may need to be cut. Use a circular saw or wet saw to do this. Always wear the right protective gear when cutting pavers.
Step 5. Add Your Joint Sand
Finally, once your pavers are installed, you will need to add joint sand. Professionals recommend polymeric sand. This sand will harden after it becomes wet and form a more permanent bond between pavers. (Your pavers will need to be completely dry before installing polymeric sand.) Start with pouring sand into the joints. Sweep any sand that misses into the joints. A hand tamper can help settle sand deep into the joints, allowing you to add more if needed. Using a leaf blower, remove any excess sand from your patio surface. Once cleared, use your hose to spray water over the polymeric sand. Allow it to dry for 24 hours.
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