How to Lay Pavers on Bare Ground

Rope off the area in which you will install your pavers with a rope or a garden hose. This will give you a guideline to follow while you dig.

Measure the height of your pavers and decide how far off the ground you want the patio or walkway to rise from the ground around it. If you want the pavers level with the ground, dig to the height of the pavers minus ¼ inch. Adjust your digging depth as necessary to achieve the desired height.

Excavate the area to your decided depth. Dig ¼ inch shallower than you want the pavers to sit, to allow for extra space from soil compaction.

Remove any stones or debris from the excavated area. Compact the exposed soil with a hand tamper or plate compactor. This will create a flat, stable surface to support your stones.

Set your pavers into place, starting at one end of your installation area and setting them firmly onto the ground. Butt the pavers as close together as possible for the smallest joints. After you lay a few pavers, set a level across them to make sure they lay flat. If necessary, tap them into place with a rubber mallet to create a completely level surface.

Cut pavers as necessary using a diamond-blade wet saw to fit into your design. Lay all pavers in place.

Spread leveling sand over the surface and force it into the tiny joints between pavers with a push broom. Sweep away all excess sand and spritz the surface with a hose to help the sand settle. Fill in any remaining gaps to complete your installation.