Equipment

Tamper or plate compactor

Shovel and spade

Landscape rake

Sledgehammer

Measuring tape

Marking spray paint

Mason’s line and stakes

Screed rails or electrical conduits

Materials

Patio pavers

6-inch layer of gravel

1-inch layer of sand

2. Plan and Design

Use a measuring tape to determine the square footage of your project area. Then, create a drawing or map of your design to scale. Scaling your project will help you purchase the correct number of materials and ensure that your design works well with other landscaping elements.

Tip: Before beginning, call your local utility specialists to ensure you don't damage any service lines.

3. Clear Soil and Adjust Elevation

Now, segment your perimeter marking with spray paint or tape. Using a sledgehammer, drive stakes just outside your markings. Now attach your mason’s line.

Use your spade and shovel to clear away grass and soil. You’ll need about 5 inches underneath your pavers. The first 4 inches are for gravel, and the last inch is for paver sand. Don’t forget to add the height of your pavers as well.

Once digging is complete, you can plan your level. Pavers should slope downwards away from your home to promote drainage. When setting your mason’s line, aim for a 1-inch drop every 8 feet. Your mason’s line will guide you when leveling your paver base.

4. Add Paver Base

Now it's time to spread 4 inches of gravel. After setting the paver base, use a landscape rake to level the gravel based on your mason's line. Create a firm base by compacting the area with a tamper. Lightly wet the base with a garden hose to make it firmer.

5. Level Paving Sand

After your crushed stone is set, you can begin spreading your paver sand. Insert your screed rails according to your mason's line. This will act as a guide for your sand. 

Now, begin spreading your sand evenly. Use a straight 2x4 to shape it, creating a uniform 1-inch layer. After that, remove the guides, fill your gaps, and smooth the surface again.

Tip: Be mindful of your work area when leveling. Stepping into a leveled section will require redoing that spot. Avoid working yourself into a corner to maintain efficiency.

6. Place Paver Stones

Finally, the moment has arrived to lay down your pavers!

Start laying the paving stones from one corner, placing each stone straight down without dragging it through the sand. Use a rubber mallet to gently tap the stones into place, ensuring they are flush with one another and pitched correctly for drainage. Be gentle with paver placement, and always avoid stomping them into place.

7. Cut Pavers to Fit

You may need to cut pavers to fit your project. Here, we recommend working with experts in paver installation near Baton Rouge. However, if you saw pavers on your own, always wear safety gear, including gloves and protective eyewear.

To cut your stones, measure and mark the cut line on the paver. Use a masonry saw for straight cuts and a handheld angle grinder with a diamond blade for curved cuts. Secure the paver, align the blade, and guide it slowly along the mark. Smooth the edges with a chisel or sanding stone.

8. Insert Edging Stones or Paving Edges

Proper edging not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the long-term durability of your project.

Start by placing edging stones or paver edging along the exposed edges of your patio or walkway. Secure the edging stones with concrete or mortar to prevent them from shifting over time.

Alternatively, you can use hard plastic paver edging that matches the height of your pavers and stake it into the ground for a secure hold. This edging helps to maintain the integrity of the installation by keeping the pavers tightly in place and preventing them from spreading or shifting.

9. Spread Additional Paver Sand

It’s time for the finishing touches!

Once all the pavers are in place, spread polymeric sand over the surface and sweep it into the joints between the pavers. This sand helps to lock the pavers in place. Use a plate compactor to compact the surface, ensuring the pavers are set firmly, and the sand is distributed evenly in the joints. Add more sand and compact again if necessary.

10. Consult with an Expert

Are you still looking for help with paver installation near Baton Rouge? If you're short on time or energy for your project, consider hiring a landscape design expert. Expert installation can efficiently and promptly deliver the hardscape of your dreams!

Paver Installation Near Baton Rouge

Ready to take your yard to the next level? Greenscape Design has helped hundreds of clients create the outdoor space of their dreams for over a decade. We work one-on-one with clients to execute paver installation near Baton Rouge. Send us a message or call (225) 333-9680 for a free consultation from an expert designer. We can't wait to hear from you!