Exterior Paver Installation Standards

Preparation

• The first step in preparing a paver site is to mark out the borders of the pavement. Measure the space to ensure it meets your minimum requirements. For instance, a driveway should be at least 10 feet wide for a one-car home and 16 to 24 feet for two cars. The minimum width for a walkway is 4 feet so you can accommodate equipment and wheelchairs. Excavate the site to at least the minimum depth. A walkway or patio site should have a depth of at least 8 inches, while a driveway should be at least 12 inches deep. Always compact the subsoil at the bottom of the foundation to stabilize the ground.

Foundation

• A proper foundation is essential for a sturdy, durable exterior surface. On a residential property, the standard material to use for a pavement foundation of is 3/4 inch gravel. The loose, irregularly shaped rocks wedge tightly together when compacted so they provide enough support to keep pavers from sinking. Gravel is flexible enough to absorb stress and ground tension, while providing passages between stones for underground water to escape. The foundation should be at least 6 inches thick for foot traffic and 10 inches for vehicles.

Sand Bed

• There are two ways to install exterior pavers: dry and wet installation. Wet installation calls for a 1-inch layer of mortar between the gravel and the pavers. Mortar adheres the pavers so they are less likely to dislodge, but it makes them difficult to replace. Dry installation entails laying a 1-inch thick bed of sand between the gravel and pavers. Sharp grit sand creates traction beneath the stones and fills in the gaps between gravel to provide a smooth even surface. Install edge restraints along the borders to prevent the pavers from shifting if you're using sand.

Laying Pavers

• There is no standard pattern for setting pavers. Herringbone, circular and basket-weave are examples of designs that offer a classic look, but you can also create your own pattern or combine two. When laying pavers, set them straight down on the sand bed, because dragging them causes the sand to build up around the sides, creating too much space between each paver. Butt them flush against each other leaving no more than 1/8 inch of space in between. Use fine sand to fill the joints and cushion the pavers, whether you use mortar or sand beneath the surface. It's also standard to seal the pavers with a penetrating sealant to guard them from water and sun damage.