How to Install Granite Pavers

Plan your work carefully before you begin. Take careful measurements of the area where you plan to install pavers, and then decide what type of layout you plan to use. Pavers can be laid out in a grid or staggered to create diagonal lines or other shapes. You can even use different colors and styles or patterns to create borders or other decorative features. Make a sketch of your planned design before you begin to help you as you begin installation.

Purchase your pavers. Look for granite pavers designed for outdoor use. If you plan to use the pavers on your driveway, make sure they are rated for heavy loads and vehicle traffic. Buy about 10 percent more material than you plan to use, as some will be lost to cutting or damage during installation.

Excavate your yard to a depth of four inches plus one half the thickness of your pavers. If you've chosen pavers that are two inches thick, you'll excavate down five inches. You can use a shovel for this task or rent a mini excavator for large jobs.

Cover the bottom of the excavated area with landscaping fabric, then add 3.5 inches of medium gravel on top. The gravel will allow the paved area to drain properly, which will help extend the life of the installation.

Pour 1/2 inch of sand on top of the gravel to act as a bed for the pavers. Use a 2x4 as a screed to smooth out the surface of the sand and create a level bed.

Apply metal paver edging around the perimeter of the excavated area. Secure it with lawn spikes every six inches. The edging acts as a frame to hold the pavers in place as you work.

Start laying your pavers on top of the sand bed. Set each paver firmly in place and then tap it with a rubber mallet to ensure it is level and secure. Use spacers to maintain equal joints between the pavers if desired. Cut pavers as needed using a wet saw with a diamond blade.

Cover the pavers with sand, then use a stiff broom to push the sand between the pavers. Brush away all excess sand and spray the pavers with water to harden the sand and complete the project.