What Do I Need to Build a Paver Driveway?

Excavation

• You need digging tools to perform the first part of the installation process, which is excavating the site. When installing a paved surface that will see vehicular traffic, 9 to 11 inches is the recommended depth to prepare the area to receive the paver base. Small areas might only require the use of shovels or spades; for larger areas, or in cases where an existing concrete driveway needs removal, heavy construction equipment such as an excavator saves time and effort.

Base

• After excavation, even out the soil with a power compactor or on small sites, a hand tamper. The soil can now receive the base, which often is crushed gravel. After spreading the base onto the soil, you must smooth the surface with the compactor. Placing a layer of concrete sand -- a specific type of sand used in construction -- on top of the base finishes the paver bed. Spread the sand over the base and manually smooth it out using a 2-by-4.

Pavers

• Once you obtain the pavers and prepare the bed, you can start laying the pavers in the desired pattern. Setting up chalk lines helps maintain a straight course as you work. If you need to adjust a paver's position, use a screwdriver or tap it with a mallet. For the borders, a layer of cement placed under the edge pavers keeps them firmly in place and prevents any of the field pavers from getting out of position.

Finishing

• You might need to cut some of the pavers, particularly the edging pavers, to fit. Use a diamond-blade wet saw, paver splitter, or hammer and chisel. After completing the paver installation, sweep up any leftover debris with a broom. Spread some mason's sand over the pavers. Smooth the sand with the broom and tamp it down with the compactor. Finish the job by applying a coat of sealer over the pavers to prevent mold, weeds or stains.