Sand Preparation for a Paving Compactor

Install the gravel base in layers after excavation to a final depth of 4 to 6 inches -- more is needed in cold climates and less in warm climates. Cover the entire area to be paved and overlap the edges by about 4 inches. The base should be made up of crushed stone and aggregate less than 3/4 inch in diameter. Install to a thickness of 2 to 3 inches. Spray the base with water but do not saturate it, and use a mechanical plate compacter to compact it. Add the second layer of base and repeat, then install the edge restraints. The sand goes over this base and the edge restraints hold it in.

Place screed rails at 6 to 8 foot intervals across the area to be paved on top of the base to the finished height of the sand, which will be 1 inch. Screed rails can be made of 1 inch conduit tubing or thin strips of wood. Pour a little sand around each screed rail and pat down with your hands to secure. Use a tape measure and spirit level to ensure the tops are all just over 1 inch and level.

Pour the sand to just over the height of the screed rails over the entire area to be paved. Use a 2-by-4 inch plank as a screed. Drag it over the layer of sand to make the sand level and smooth and so that it just reaches the tops of the screed rails. Fill in any depressions and remove the screed rails one at a time and fill with sand until the entire surface to be paved has a 1 inch level and smooth layer of sand over it. This sand should not get wet or compacted and you should not walk on it.

Lay the pavers by hand in your chosen pattern using string lines to keep them straight and level. Cut pavers to fit when necessary using a tile saw. Sweep the surface of the pavers once they are all laid.

Throw masonry sand over the pavers and use a broom to sweep the sand into the cracks between the pavers. Use the plate compacter over the sand and pavers to tamp the pavers down and force more sand into the spaces between the pavers. Do not use the compacter on the bare pavers without a layer of sand because it would most likely crack them. Sweep the pavers again and repeat. Add more sand and repeat this process for a few days to ensure that the gaps are all filled. Sweep the pavers clean when you are done.