How to Put Down Cement Patio Blocks

Measure the area where the patio will set, adding about 4 inches to each side for an overlapped edging. Use a stake and colored string to outline the area completely so it will be easy to tell where the blocks go. The measurement should align with the amount of blocks being used. Equal measurements mean the blocks will line up evenly and will not have to be cut in pieces.

Dig a level surface 2 inches in depth where 1 inch of crushed stone, 1 inch of masonry sand and the blocks will be placed. Use a gravel rake to level the area off after removing any large rocks or roots. Over time, roots may expand and make the patio floor uneven; therefore it is necessary to remove any obstacles that may cause future damage.

Place an inch of the crushed stone throughout the level area. Flatten the stone down as tight as possible with either a flat shovel, or a compressor if working in a large area. This helps in ensuring the stones do not shift over time and cause sinkholes. Use a level to check that the patio base is completely level. Move any stone around as needed to obtain maximum evenness. Place a strip of landscaping plastic over the top of the stone. Doing so will help hinder the growth of weeds up through the patio blocks.

Pour in an inch of masonry sand onto the plastic and spread it around. Use the flat end of the gravel rake to spread it out until even. Place the level on top of the sand to make sure the area is level all around. Again, move any unlevel sand around to make sure the floor is perfectly level.

Put down the patio blocks straight down on the sand. Fill in the whole patio with the block in the desired pattern until all blocks are pressed up against each other. Pour a coating of fine masonry sand on the top, sweeping it into the cracks between the patio blocks with a broom. The sand will take a while to settle, so walk on the blocks to help the sand set up. Wetting the sand will also aid in the process.