How to Pave Pavers

Clear the area for your pavers. Pull out or dig up existing plants and shrubs. Try to get as much of the root systems as you can to avoid future growth from aggressive plants. Use a sod-cutter to remove any grass growing on the building site.

Remove the topsoil to a level equal to the depth of the pavers. Level the cleared area with a shovel and a rake. Fill in dips and remove bumps, creating a smooth, even surface for the pavers. Pack the soil with a soil tamper.

Form the border with landscape edging or lumber, depending on your design preference. Use a string line when placing the borders to ensure a uniform design.

Pour coarse sand over the tamped soil. Use enough sand to create a 1- to 2-inch layer. Smooth the surface of the sand with a rake. Drag a screed board over the top of the sand to create a level surface for the pavers.

Start laying the pavers at one side of the border. Place a paver spacer or tile rib between the border and the paver. Press the paver firmly against the spacer. Gently tamp the paver in place with a rubber mallet. Place another paver, setting it against the border and the first paver. Use spacers to create uniform distances between pavers and the outside border. Continue laying the pavers in this manner until you fill the prepared site.

Place a carpenter's level over the top of your pavers to check the plane. Adjust any uneven pavers by placing additional sand below low pavers and tamping down high pavers.

Sprinkle coarse sand over the surface of your pavers. Use a broom to sweep the sand into the spaces between the pavers. Sweep off any remaining sand.

Water the pavers with a gentle spray from a garden hose. This will cause the sand to sink a bit and compact. Let your pavers dry, then apply another sprinkling of sand to fill in the low areas between the pavers. Sweep away any excess sand, and enjoy your new patio or walkway.