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How to Connect & Cut PVC Pipe Rings as Plastic Pavers

Pavers are landscape elements laid out on flat surfaces to add texture and artistic flair. Most pavers are made of square stone or molded concrete, but plastic PVC rings can be used as an open-face alternative. They offer the same slip-resistance for a fraction of the cost. Paver rings can be cut at home with hand tools and can be installed without professional assistance.

Things You'll Need

  • PVC pipe
  • Measuring tape
  • Pencil
  • Hacksaw or PVC cutter
  • Sandpaper
  • Paint
  • PVC cement
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the PVC pipe into two-inch-wide segments, using a pencil to indicate where the pipe needs to be cut. Cut the PVC pipe along the pencil lines using a hacksaw or PVC pipe cutter. If using a hacksaw, place the pipe in a vise to hold it in place. Discard any end pieces that are less than two inches wide.

    • 2

      Smooth the cut surfaces of the PVC pipe using sandpaper.

    • 3

      Smooth the outside of the rings with sandpaper to remove blemishes and then paint the PVC rings as desired. Using a light-colored, water-based acrylic paint can also help defend the PVC pipe against continual sun exposure. Be sure to verify that any paint used is chemically compatible with PVC pipe.

    • 4

      Assemble the rings together in the desired pattern. Circular pavers, which can be placed like stepping stones when finished, can be formed by surrounding a single ring with a circle of rings. Pavers that will be placed in straight lines for walkways or patios can be assembled in small square or line groupings that will be easier to place.

    • 5

      Swab a small amount of PVC cement onto the contiguous sides of each ring once they have been assembled as desired. Hold them together for about 30 seconds until the glue has set. Allow the entire assembly to dry for 24 hours before placing the paver in its intended location.

    • 6

      Prepare the paver surface by outlining the area with stakes and string and digging away about an inch of the dirt that will be placed underneath the pavers. Level the ground and, if desired, cover it with a decorative material that will show through the pavers (such as sand or gravel).

    • 7

      Press the PVC pipe rings firmly into the ground in the desired pattern, leaving no more than three-quarter inch exposed.