The Best Way to Install Paving Stones

Mark the area where you will lay the pavers. Using a hose, mark the outline of the area. Spray paint the outline of the planned paved area 8-inches outside of the outline.

Measure the width and length of the outline of the planned paved area with the measuring tape. Multiply the width by the length. This number will give you the area to be paved in square feet (or square meters). This is how to find out how many square feet (or square meters) of pavers you will need.

Excavate the area where you plan to lay the pavers. Calculate the depth of excavation by adding the total inches of your base material, sand bedding and thickness of your pavers. Use a shovel and tamper tool to prepare the area. Be sure to make the area slop downward 1 inch for each 4 feet of space.

Lay the base material, which usually consists of crushed gravel or limestone, over the area once it has been excavated. A 1- to 2-inch covering should be sufficient. Use a rake or broom to spread the base material evenly over the area. Once the area has been completely covered, use the tamper tool or compacting machine to set the base material into the ground.

Set edge restraints along the outline of the paved area as you set the stones. These will keep the paving stones from separating or moving. The edgers can be used as you set the stones or used at the completion of the project.

Spread a layer of coarse-grain sand over the base material, approximately 1- to 1 ½ -inches thick. Use the broom to smooth the sand evenly over the base material.

Lay the stone pavers on top of the sand in the pattern of your choice. Place them as closely together as possible. You can stagger the seams and edges of the pavers. Use a level and tamper to keep the pavers even.

Spread a layer of fine-grain sand on the surface of the pavers once they have been set. This is to fill up the joints between the pavers. Use the broom to sweep the sand over the pavers.

Spread sand binding sealant over the pavers, using the paint roller. Apply an even coat over the newly paved surface to protect it from stains and to keep vegetation from growing between the pavers.