How to Set Pavers Over Existing Concrete

Place the pavers on top of the existing pad in the desired pattern to dry fit the pavers to the area. Mark any pavers that need to be cut with a marker. Cut the pavers along the marks with a masonry wet saw. Remove the pavers from the pad and separate the cut pavers from the full pavers. Cut pavers need to be installed along a vertical edge if available.

Mix mortar into a bucket with water to a consistency of peanut butter. Spoon the mortar along one edge of the cement pad with a trowel. Drag the notched edge of the trowel over the mortar to create grooves parallel to the edge of the pad. Install the pavers starting in one corner, checking the level with each paver. Tap the paver into position with a rubber mallet.

Repeat Step 2 for one adjoining edge.

Spread dry concrete over the remainder of the structure except for the remaining two edges. Drag the notched edge of the trowel over the concrete to create grooves in the surface. Install the remaining pavers, starting in the corner and working toward the opposite corner. Level each paver as you install it so that the tops of all pavers are flush and even.

Install the remaining two edges in the same manner as the first two. Allow the mortar to dry for 24 hours.

Spread concrete sand over the structure. Sweep the sand into the grooves using a push broom. Wet the surface down with a low-pressure water hose to clean off excess sand and to solidify the joints.