How to: Brick Paver Driveways

Dig out your installation area to a depth of 7 to 8 inches, unless otherwise instructed by area building regulations. Consult your township ordinances to confirm any restrictions or requirements for new driveway installation.

Spread a 3-inch layer of pack or patio paver base over your installation area to create a solid base for your driveway. Moisten the base material or pack with a garden hose and firm up the material with a hand tamper or plate compactor. Wetting the material cuts down on dust from the compactor.

Cover the paver base with a 1- to 2inch layer of sand. Moisten and compact like you did with the pack. The sand will create a completely flat base that will support the brick pavers.

Lay your brick pavers on top of the sand in your specific design. Do not drag the pavers through the sand, but set them against each other and then drop them into place. Check the level of the bricks to make sure they are completely flat; tap them into place with a rubber mallet or add a little sand beneath to create a perfect level.

Wrap plastic or metal edging material around the perimeter of your bricks and hold it in place by driving stakes into the designated holes. This material will stop the bricks from shifting under pressure.

Cover the installed brick pavers with a ½-inch layer of sand. Sweep the sand into the joints between pavers with a broom or push broom to fill in the gaps and stop the pavers from grinding together.

Compact the surface with your plate compactor once more to settle the sand into the joints. Fill in any gaps, and sweep away excess sand to reveal your completed driveway.