Installing a Paver Patio

DIY Patio Install

Patio’s are an increasingly popular alternative to a traditional deck. Because they’re not physically attached to your house, they require very little maintenance, have a long lifespan, and most of the time do not require any permits or inspections. They’re also usually more cost efficient than decks, and come in a variety of options.

A popular type of deck material is the paver stone. Paver stones are tile, and brick pieces of concrete typically used as exterior flooring. Paver stones are versatile and have a variety of options in color, shape, and pattern. They are a great cost friendly way to add value to your back yard area. Follow these steps to get started on your paver patio:

Building a Paver Patio

Prepare the Patio Area

The first step in your DIY paver patio is to prepare the area you choose. Mark your perimeter of where the patio will go with marking paint, and wooden stakes going outside the perimeter markers, attaching a mason line. Once you’ve found the height of your patio, mark the height on the stakes and adjust the mason line accordingly.

Clear Grass and Soil

The next step in your patio installation is to dig out the grass and soil in the marked area. Use a shovel and a spade, when digging be sure to check the depth against the mason line to ensure you maintain proper depth and slope. Keep in mind you’ll be adding four inches of base and an inch of sand.

Add Paver Base

When installing a paver patio be sure to add a paver base throughout the patio area. Make sure the base is spread evenly, use a rake to help. Compact the area until you have a firm base, then wet the area to make it more solid.

Add Paver Sand

To ensure proper paver patio installation, paver sand is needed on top of the paver base. Place electrical conduit tubes on top of the base, these tubes will help guide you when leveling the sand. While leveling off the sand, be aware of your work area, check if you’ve accidentally stepped into an already level area. Once the sand is poured, take a piece of wood (2×4) and drag it across the tubes to level the sand, lift the tubes out and fill the space left by them with more sand.

Place Paver Stones

You’re almost done with your paver patio as it’s beginning to take shape, your next step is to place the paver stones. Start in one corner of the patio and place the paver stones one at a time, be sure they’re fit firmly. It’s important you don’t drag the pavers across the sand or it will become un-level. If the pavers need to be cut to meet the needs of your design, use a straight edge and a marker to trace the cut into the allotted spots.

Add Edging Stones

Placing edge stones all along the exposed edges of the paver patio will help keep the stones restrained so that they don’t budge.

Finish Paver Patio

Lastly it’s time to finish your DIY  paver patio, spread more layers of paver sand over the entire marked area. Use a push broom to fill the sand into the gaps between the stones. Soon enough you’ll be able to enjoy your paver patio.

Fill your new patio with new lounge furniture, patio sets and fresh plants surrounding the area. Remember after your new patio is all set, you may find yourself with excess yard waste, or old patio furniture that you need to dispose of. If you find yourself in a situation like this call us at Waste Solutions 123 for a dumpster rental!