How to Install Pavers on an Existing Patio

Lay out the pavers onto the patio surface without mortar or sand to dry-fit the pavers to the structure. Mark any pavers that you need to cut to meet the existing dimensions of the patio with a marker. Cut the pavers with a masonry wet saw.

Remove the pavers and lay the cut pavers into a separate stack. You'll need to install the cut pavers closest to a vertical structure such as the wall of the house.

Sweep all debris from the surface of the patio. Rinse with a low-pressure water hose to remove excess dirt. Leave the surface of the patio damp but without standing water.

Mix mortar into a bucket with water. Spoon the mixed mortar along one edge of the patio. Drag the notched edge of the trowel over the mortar to leave grooves that run parallel to the edge of the patio.

Install the pavers along the edge starting from one corner. Use a level to ensure the pavers are level and flush with each other. Tap the top of the pavers with a rubber mallet to obtain the proper level.

Repeat Steps 4 and 5 for a second adjacent edge.

Pour dry cement over the remainder of the patio except for the remaining edges to a depth equal to the depth of the mortar base of the first two edges. Drag the notched trowel over the dry cement to leave grooves. Install the pavers starting in the corner created by the two installed edges working towards the opposite corner. Complete the remaining two edges the same as the first two edges. Allow the mortar to set for 24 hours.

Sweep cement sand over the surface and into the grooves between pavers with a push broom. Dampen the surface with a low-pressure water hose to solidify the cement sand and to wash off excess material.