Install a Paver Patio

A patio is a great place to relax and entertain. And the actual installation isn't very difficult. In Part One of this three-part series, we gave you some ideas on how to design your patio. In Part Two, we showed you how to lay the foundation – an important step for a long-lasting patio. And now we'll show you how to finish your project so you can enjoy your new patio.

Installing The Pavers

01 Start laying the pavers at the corner of the patio area and work your way toward the middle. If your patio has a border, start with the first few border blocks. If you are installing your patio against the house, start at the base of the house.
Set the first paver tight against the house foundation, then set the next blocks tightly against the first pavers.
02 You shouldn’t need to level the blocks if you laid the foundation correctly, but you might want to double check. If a paver sits too high, gently tap it down with a rubber mallet and check it again with a level. If a paver sits too low, place some extra sand underneath it and gently tap it down with a rubber mallet until it’s even with the surrounding stones.
03 Cut the block with a masonry wet saw. Be sure to wear proper safety gear when cutting pavers. You can also use a hammer and chisel to cut the block. Hold the paver in place and mark the cut line. Use a straight edge to mark the line on all four sides of the block. Place the block on a flat, sturdy surface. Hold the chisel on the cut line with the beveled edge facing the waste side. Score the block by tapping the chisel with a hammer along the entire cut line. Hold the chisel on the mark and give it a heavy hit to break the block. Smooth any edges with an angle grinder or use a brick trowel to remove any rough pieces.
Locking The Pavers in Place
01 Install the plastic retaining edge around the perimeter with a hammer and spikes.
Set it below the top surface of the patio, and make sure it is tight against the pavers.
Cut the retaining edge to bend around curves.
02 Run a plate compactor over the patio to set the blocks. Start from the perimeter and work toward the middle of the patio. Some paver manufacturers don't recommend plate compacting, so be sure to read the instructions.
03 Fill the joints with sand.
Pour a generous amount of sand over the blocks. Work the sand into the joints with a stiff broom. Remove any excess with the broom. Lightly mist the patio with a garden hose to help work the sand into the joints. If you see any gaps, apply more sand and mist with water. Repeat this process until all the joints are filled.
Finishing Touches
Backfill the perimeter of the patio with soil. Gently wash the surface with a garden hose. Apply a stone sealant, if recommended by the paver manufacturer. Follow the instructions regarding application and dry time. Plant flowers, grass, or use mulch along the edge of the patio. Set up outdoor furniture and enjoy your new patio.

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By:Will

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Posted: October 28, 2011

By:Will

(read all my contributions)

Great videos see my idea at http://patio-barnsleylad.blogspot.com/

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