How to Build a Patio With Pavers

Patios built with pavers are durable, lovely to look upon and are unparalleled in their ability to weather the elements. Fortunately, pavers are one of the easiest products out there one can work with, even if you are a complete beginner. With all the different styles available, it’s easier than ever to find the look that’s right for you.

1. Know your budget. Knowing just how much money you have available to supply and complete your patio project is an important factor to keep in mind when considering looks, styles and materials.


2. Know what you want. It’s usually a great idea to spend a little time thumbing through product catalogs to see just what is out there and what you might like to use for your patio. You will want to check out common patterns used and pick one that works for you. Make note of the pattern style you prefer and keep a sample image on hand for reference.


3. Pick your paver.  Pavers come in a surprisingly wide array of styles and colors. From standard cast concrete pavers to prefabricated old-world cobblestone to snappy geometric pavers that are designed to interlock with each other. Your selection is only really limited by your budget.


4. Excavate. Before you can begin laying your pavers, you’ll need to first completely clear the area where you will be laying stone from obstructions such as plant life or obstacles. Grass can simply be mown to a short length and worked over. Everything else that might hamper your progress or the set of the stone should be removed.


5. Lay your base. Prior to laying your pavers you will want to completely cover the working surface with a base. Common bases are sand and decomposed granite. Decomposed granite is the preferred base for patios as it provides a bit more support and stability for the pavers.


6. Lay your pavers. Working from the pattern you picked early in your design phase, lay out your pavers according to the indicated pattern. Working with an entire patio, you will not be working stone by stone. Lay out your entire patio as per your pattern choice as a single unit.


7. Top-dress the pavers. Once everything is laid out, pour out a mixture of either decomposing granite or clean sand and use a wide headed push broom to drive the sand in between the pavers.


8. Pack it down. Make sure your sand is packed in tightly between your pavers by vibration-plating it all into place.