Have you finally decided to install pavers in your backyard? Pavers really beautify an outdoor space and it can be a weekend DIY project for homeowners. Not only are pavers a beautiful option to install but requires very low maintenance. And pavers come in many designs and colors. There really is no way to regret adding pavers to your backyard.
You are going to learn the steps taken to install pavers for a patio with step by step instructions.
After learning about the steps to take, you are going to feel comfortable and confident to do this project on your own if you choose to.
This post is all about the steps to take in order to learn how to install pavers for a patio.
What you will need:
- pavers
- roadbase
- mason sand
- polymeric sand
- paver edge restraint
- level
- shovel
- plate compactor or tamper
- aluminum screed or 2×4
- broom
- rake
- marking paint
- wood stakes
- twine
- rubber mallet
- water hose
1. Calculations
The first thing with any project is to figure out how much materials will be needed. Begin by marking off area with marking spray paint or by tying twine to wooden stakes. Measure the area using a tape measurer to get square footage. Square footage is length x width. Knowing square footage is essential to getting quantities needed for all materials.
Pavers: Pavers are sold by square footage.
Roadbase and Mason Sand: Roadbase and mason sand are sold by yards. A yard will cover 324 sq.ft for every inch in depth.
Polymeric sand: A 50lb bag of polymeric sand will typically cover a minimum of 60 sq.ft.
2. Dig, Dig, and Dig
Preparing for pavers will require lots of ground to be removed. At least 6 inches will have to be dug away as area will be layered with different materials. 3-4 inches will be layered with roadbase, 1 inch of mason sand will be placed on top of roadbase and finally pavers that measure about 2 inches in height will be placed at last.
3. Compact Area
Once area has been dug away, the ground will be need to be compacted. Compacting can be achieved with either a tamper or a plate compactor. I recommend renting a plate compactor from your local hardware store as this will save you time and will be less tiresome. As every layer will need to be compacted, renting a plate compactor makes good sense.
4. Add Base Material
Add the roadbase which will be the base material. If roadbase is not available in your area, you can use gravel. Rake the roadbase throughout area. As you are raking, it is very important that you are slopping away from the house to allow for drainage. Most contractors slope at 1/4 in. for every foot, however the ICP recommends a slope of 3/16 in. for every foot. Use a level to check for slope. Again after laying down the roadbase, run the plate compactor throughout area.
5. Add Mason Sand
Now it is time to add the sand on top of the compacted roadbase. Spread out sand using the rake again. Sand should an inch thick. The sand will not need to be compacted but will have to be smoothed out. Run an aluminum screed across the sand to level out. You can use a 2×4 lumber if you do not have an aluminum screed.
6. Set Pavers
It is now time to finally start setting down the pavers. Begin at a corner of the area and start laying down the pavers. Lay pavers down gently on sand and tap down with a rubber mallet to secure. Tap down all pavers to even out. Run the plate compactor one last time once the pavers are all set.
7. Install Paver Edge Restraint
Install paver edge restraints on outside of pavers by securing with concrete nails.
8. Polymeric Sand
Now the final and easiest step of the project. Pour polymeric sand on top of pavers and sweep it across all the pavers. The fine polymer sand will fall into the cracks of the pavers. Make sure all the polymer sand has been swept off the pavers as you do not want any residue left on pavers once polymer sand is activated. Activate the adhesive on of the polymer sand with water by hosing down lightly on pavers.
9. Enjoy
Your pavers are now set and ready to enjoy!
This post was al about how to install pavers for a patio
Disclaimer: Contact a licensed contractor for all home improvement projects
