Leveling Pavers & Patio Installation

Stake Out the Area

• Mark the patio area with stakes and string. Decks raised above the existing area are easier to install.

Prepare the Area

• Good drainage is essential to a long-lasting paver deck. The deck should slope away from any structure at a rate of one inch per six feet. Place 2-by-6-inch lumber on edge to outline the deck. Fill the area with two inches of packed pea gravel. Wet thoroughly. Cover the gravel with two inches of packed course sand. Wet the area again.

Setting a True Base

• Cut 2-by-2-inch notches in the ends of a 2-by-4 long enough to span from 2-by-6 to 2-by-6. This screed board rests on the 2-by-6-inch lumber. Drag it to create a level base for the pavers. It will cut off high spots and show low spots that need more sand.

Placing the Pavers

• You should begin laying pavers against a structure and work out from there. Finish with metal or plastic restraints. Sweep coarse sand into cracks to fill them.