How to Attach Concrete Pavers Using a Construction Adhesive

Clean the surface prior to placing the pavers with a mop and a cleanser formulated for your specific surface type. Follow the cleanser instructions to remove any dirt, oil or debris and then rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water. Allow the surface to dry completely either by air-drying or by patting the surface dry with rags.

Prepare painted or finished surfaces for the paver attachment by sanding away the smoothness of the surface with a medium-grit sandpaper. Sand the surface in small circles, covering the surface in small scratches that will allow the construction adhesive to better adhere to the surface. Sweep up any residue from the sanding process with a push broom before continuing.

Cut the tip from the construction adhesive cartridge nozzle at a 45-degree angle with a utility knife. Position the cut far enough down the sloping nozzle length so that the bead of adhesive pushed through the nozzle measures 3/8-inch in size. Cut a small hole through the protective seal beneath the cartridge with the knife to allow the adhesive to flow freely. Place the cartridge into a caulking gun so that the tip is angled downward for easy application.

Apply the construction adhesive onto the cleaned, prepared surface where you wish to place the pavers. Use a zig-zagging motion that covers a line about the width of the concrete pavers. Place the lines of adhesive so that they're spaced about two inches apart to ensure broad coverage along the rear of the pavers. Use no more adhesive on the surface than you can cover in pavers within 10 minutes to avoid drying of the applied adhesive before you can place the pavers.

Apply a bead of adhesive to the rear of the stone. Position the adhesive in the stone's center using a small one-quarter inch sized "S" shape. The small amount of adhesive ensures the center of the stone is firmly bonded to the surface.

Press the pavers onto the bead of adhesive and press firmly to spread the adhesive along the paver rear. Use a slight wiggling motion as you set the paver in place to spread the adhesive even further over the paver rear. Remove any excess adhesive that escapes from beneath the paver with a damp sponge to prevent it from drying in place.