How to Fill a Raised Porch and Install Concrete & Pavers

Build a framework around the edges of the existing porch using 2-by-6-inch form boards. Nail the form boards to the outside edge of the porch using double-headed nails for easy removal. This framework will keep the concrete from oozing off the porch while you are installing the pavers.

Apply wood glue to the planks of the existing porch using a caulking gun. Position sheets of 1/2-inch thick plywood over the surface of the porch to form a sturdy base for the concrete and pavers. Secure the plywood further by nailing each corner of the sheet, as well as the sides and the center, using a total of nine nails per sheet of plywood.

Lay a second layer of plywood on the porch in the same manner, turning the plywood in the opposite direction to avoid weak joints between the sheets. Secure this second layer with wood glue and nails at the appropriate places.

Position the pavers on the plywood in the pattern you have chosen. Do not use concrete mortar at this time - this is a dry run. Leave a 1/4-inch space between each paver for the joints.

Prepare the concrete mortar by combining one part Portland cement with 2.5 parts masonry sand in a wheelbarrow. While pushing and pulling the ingredients around with a hoe to mix them, add one part water to the dry ingredients. Mix until the cement mortar is lump-free and has the consistency of thickened cake batter.

Slide the tip of a tuck pointer under the edge of the first paver to lift it up. Dampen the plywood beneath the paver with a small amount of water to help the concrete mortar form a stronger bond.

Spread the concrete mortar with a steel trowel, keeping the depth of the mortar approximately 1/4-inch thick. Press the paver down into the concrete and wiggle it slightly to firmly embed it into the concrete mortar. Remove any excess mortar from the face of the paver with a dampened sponge.

Continue laying the pavers in this manner until the entire porch has been covered with concrete and pavers, leaving the spaces between the pavers. Allow the concrete mortar to cure for at least six hours.

Prepare a new batch of concrete mortar, making it thicker than before. You should be able to mold this mortar with your gloved hands. Press the concrete mortar between the pavers using the steel trowel, completely filling the gaps between the pavers. Drag the trowel diagonally across the joints to remove excess mortar. Allow the concrete mortar to dry for one hour.

Clean the pavers with a sponge. The first time you wipe over the pavers, leave a good bit of water in the sponge to help remove the majority of the concrete. Using less water on subsequent passes, continue wiping over the pavers until all the excess concrete is gone. Allow the mortar to harden overnight before allowing traffic in the area.

Remove the form board framework once the concrete has cured overnight by prying the double-headed nails out of the wood.