How to Lay Interlocking Stones

Interlocking stones construct a solid surface, perfect for patios or other areas used for entertaining. With a sturdy base, interlocking stones will last for a long time. Although laying interlocking stones may be time-consuming and hard work, hiring a contractor can be expensive. The project can be much cheaper if you do it yourself. The interlocking stones and related supplies can be purchased from a home improvement store, while the tools needed can be found in your garage. A plate compactor can be rented to save you more money on this project.

Ground-marking spray paint
Flat and pointed shovels
Gravel
Plate compactor
Wooden or metal stakes
String
Line level
Sand
6 foot-long 2-inch by 4-inch board
Chalk
Marking crayon
Wet saw

Instructions

- 1
  Draw your design of the area where the interlocking stones will be laid. Mark the area with biodegradable ground-marking spray paint.
- 2
  Remove dirt, grass and weeds from the area you will be laying the interlocking stones. Using a flat shovel, dig seven to nine inches into the ground within the marked area.
- 3
  Fill the hole with gravel. Cover the bottom completely so no dirt can be seen through the gravel. Compact the gravel with the plate compactor. Add more gravel and compact until the gravel is 3 inches under where you want the ground level to be as an end result.
- 4
  Mark the edges of the area with stakes. Tie string to the stakes, and level using a line level. For large areas, create a slight slope at the site of the interlocking stones to provide adequate drainage. There should be one-eighth inch of slope for every foot of interlocking stones. Measure the length of the area to calculate the slope needed. Bring the stakes down on one side of the area depending on your slope measurement. For example, if your area is 8 feet in length, bring the stakes on one side down by one inch for drainage.
- 5
  Install the edge restraints around the all edges where the interlocking stones go. Edge restraints can be PVC, aluminum or wood depending on your taste. Edge restraints prevent the interlocking stones from moving.
- 6
  Place sand on top of the gravel. Screed the surface using two conduit pipes and the 6-foot-long board. The two conduit pipes should be placed near the edges of the measured area. Place the board on top of the two pieces of conduit and drag across the sand to create a level surface. Remove the conduit and board, and fill the holes with sand.
- 7
  Use a chalk line to create 90-degree angles for laying out your interlocking stones. Start in the middle and work outwards, interlocking the stones together as you go. Cut the stones, as needed, with a marking crayon and wet saw.
- 8
  Sweep sand over the interlocking stones to fill joints. Use the plate compactor to set the interlocking stones into the sand.

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