What Is The Best Way To Install Pavers? (Guide)

There are a lot of ways to install pavers, but there are also a lot of things you have to consider before doing so.

It’s important that you take the time to learn what types of pavers will work best for your project, as well as how to prepare the ground in order to make sure they stay in place once they’re down.

And while some people choose to hire professionals for this type of work, others prefer do-it-yourself projects like these because it saves them money and gives them something fun and exciting to do with their free time!

Takeaways
Proper preparation is key to a successful paver installation.
The right type of paver for your project will depend on several factors, such as your budget and desired style.
A stable base is essential for a long-lasting and durable paver installation.
While it is possible to install pavers on your own, it may be worth hiring a professional for best results.
Regular maintenance can help ensure that your paver installation looks its best over time.

Table of Contents

Pick The Area

So, now you’re ready to install your new pavers. Before you do, there are a few things to consider:

The size of your project. How many square feet do you want to cover? Pavers come in different sizes and shapes.

Make sure the area is level. If it isn’t, level it out with sand or dirt before installing the pavers.

This will ensure that they all sit flush together when installed correctly, giving them a flat appearance and fewer cracks for water to get trapped in over time (which can lead to mold growth).

Make sure it’s dry out first! If there’s any standing water on top of where you’re about to lay down some new pavers, wait until after a good rainstorm so that whatever moisture has been sitting there will have had time enough both settle into whatever ground beneath us and evaporate away from above us before proceeding further with our project (and risk having puddles form underneath each step we take while doing so).

How to Install Concrete Pavers | Ask This Old House

Remove The Grass

The first step to installing pavers is removing the grass. This can be done by hand or with a lawn mower.

Grass will grow back after pavers have been installed, and you’ll need to trim it regularly to prevent it from growing into the joints between pavers.

If you’re using sod cutters instead of a lawnmower, make sure that they are sharpened before use as well as being set up correctly–the blades should be at an angle so they don’t cut too deep into the ground, which would cause damage to your new paver installation.

“If you’re wondering whether it’s possible to lay pavers over brick, the answer is yes! Our comprehensive guide on how to lay pavers over brick explains everything you need to know about this installation process, including tips for ensuring a durable and long-lasting result.”

Lay Down The Border

To lay down the border, you’ll need a tape measure and string line. You can also use a chalk line if you have one available.

If you’re looking for an easier method, there are laser levels that are designed for laying pavers that are made out of plastic or metal (not wood). These will help ensure that each row is exactly straight and level with one another.

The final option is to use a line level, which looks similar to the kind used in carpentry but has longer handles on either side so they can be held together while standing up straight like in image below:

Dig The Base

Digging the base is the first step of laying pavers. You will need to dig a trench for the pavers, level it and make sure that your base is stable.

The base should be as flat as possible so that your pavers can rest on it and not fall over. Also, you need to make sure that there are no rocks or roots buried under the soil so they don’t damage your paver installation process later on in the project.

“Rectangle pavers can add a unique and modern look to any outdoor space, but installing them requires attention to detail and proper technique. Learn more about how to install rectangle pavers with our step-by-step guide, which includes tips for ensuring accurate measurements and creating a stable base for your pavers.”

Level The Base

To get started, you’ll need to make sure the base is level before installing your pavers. You can do this with a laser level or spirit level, or even with string lines.

A line level is also handy for double checking the contours of your property. Just hold it up after marking each corner and make sure they match up perfectly!

Add The Sand

Add the sand. This is the first step to filling out your pavers. The sand acts as a cushion between each paver, and also fills in any spaces between them.

Sand should be compacted down with a tamper, which is like a big hammer used by construction workers to pound things into place.

Repeat until you’re finished, then stand back and admire your work!

“When it comes to installing pavers, the base layer is one of the most important factors to consider. Our guide on how deep should gravel be for pavers explores this topic in depth, providing insight on the ideal depth for different types of pavers, as well as tips for properly preparing and compacting the gravel base.”

Lay Down The Paver Stones

The next step is to lay down the pavers. This can be done in a variety of ways, but one way that works well for most people is to use spacers to keep the pavers apart.

You will also want to use a rubber mallet or rubber tapping block to tap each paver into place. Once they are all laid out, you can then use sandpaper or some other abrasive material on a block sander so that any rough edges get smoothed out and it looks nice and smooth.

Fill In Joints With Sand And Cement

The next step is to fill in the joints with sand and cement. Use a trowel to do this, but be sure to use a level first to make sure that the ground is level (you don’t want one side raised above another). Once it’s leveled out, use a roller on top of the sand just as you would when smoothing out paint or plaster.

“Adding new pavers to an existing installation can be a great way to expand your outdoor living space and create a cohesive look. Our guide on how to add new pavers to existing pavers provides step-by-step instructions for this process, as well as tips for ensuring proper alignment and preventing damage to your existing pavers.”

Lay Down Your Finishing Touches

So, now that you have your pavers in and all the dirt is settled, it’s time to clean up and make your yard look nice. You should sweep or hose down any excess sand that has migrated into areas around the pavers.

Then apply a sealer to protect them from weathering, stains and staining. Once those are dry it’s time to mow the grass around them so they will grow in nicely with the rest of your yard.

Finally plant some flowers or shrubs at intervals along the borders of these new paths – this will give them an extra touch of class!

“Applying sealer to your pavers can help protect them from the elements and keep them looking their best for years to come. Our guide on what is the best way to apply sealer to pavers covers everything you need to know about this process, including the best time to apply sealer, how to properly prepare your pavers, and tips for choosing the right type of sealer for your needs.”

Conclusion

There you have it! These are some of the best ways to install pavers. I hope this article has been helpful for you as you continue to learn about all things paver. Now, let’s get back to work!

FAQs

How do I prepare my site for paver installation?

Before laying pavers, it’s important to properly prepare your site. This involves removing any existing grass or debris, grading the area to ensure proper drainage, and creating a stable base using a layer of gravel or sand.

What type of pavers should I use?

There are many different types of pavers available, including concrete, brick, and natural stone. The right type of paver for your project will depend on factors such as your budget, desired style, and the climate in your area.

How do I create a stable base for my pavers?

A stable base is essential for a long-lasting and durable paver installation. This typically involves creating a layer of compacted gravel or sand that is several inches deep, then using a layer of leveling sand to ensure that your pavers are even and properly aligned.

Can I lay pavers on my own, or do I need to hire a professional?

While it is possible to lay pavers on your own, this process can be time-consuming and requires a certain level of skill and expertise. If you’re unsure about your ability to install pavers correctly, it may be worth hiring a professional to handle the job.

How do I maintain my paver installation over time?

To keep your paver installation looking its best, it’s important to maintain it regularly. This can involve sweeping and washing your pavers to remove debris, filling in any gaps or cracks with sand, and resealing your pavers every few years to protect them from the elements.

Hellen James

I am Hellen James, a landscape architect. For many years I have written about landscaping for various publications; however, recently decided to focus my writing on personal experience as a profession.