D.I.Y Guide: How to lay Pavers If you’ve been dreaming of creating a beautiful outdoor space, paving is a fantastic and cost-effective DIY project that can enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your backyard, patio, driveway or garden. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a first-time paver, this step-by-step guide on how to install paving will walk you through the entire process, making it easy and enjoyable! From preparing the base to laying the pavers and adding the finishing touches, we’ll cover all the essential DIY paving tips and tricks to achieve professional-looking results without the need for external contractors. So, if you’re wondering how to install paving or how to lay pavers on dirt or sand, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started on this paver installation journey and learn how to pave an area with confidence. Grab your tools and let’s get started on creating your perfect paved paradise! NOTE: You may need to hire a plate compactor and a brick saw or angle grinder with a diamond-tipped masonry blade depending on the size of your project. Before you start! Safety first! Remember to prioritise safety by wearing steel-capped shoes, eye protection, and hearing protection when operating machinery. These precautions help minimize the risk of accidents and injuries. Check before you dig Consider hiring professional practitioners to avoid hitting reticulation, electrical lines or pipes. If you’re into DIY and decide to dig yourself, calculate the depth based on the paver thickness before you start. Grass Removal To prevent grass growth between pavers, consider poisoning the grass in grass-covered areas two weeks before excavation. Select your paving pattern Before you start laying those pavers, make sure to decide on the pattern you want to use. Planning it beforehand will save you from buying extra pavers or running out. So, take a moment to choose your pattern, and you’ll be good to go without any hassles! Let’s Start! Mark out the levels for the base Before you start any physical work, it’s crucial to determine the desired height and slope of your paver installation. Use stakes and string lines to mark the edges and levels of the base. Ensure that the area is well-measured and properly set to prevent any potential issues with uneven surfaces later on. Set up the formwork Formwork acts as a boundary or containment for the base materials. It keeps the paver base contained within the desired area and helps maintain the correct shape. Typically, wooden boards are used to create the formwork. Make sure the formwork is set securely and follows the marked levels, use string lines to adjust with aligning. Layering and spreading the base Now it’s time to fill the area within the formwork with the base material, usually a layer of road base (at least 100mm thick). Spread the material evenly across the entire area using shovels, rakes, or other appropriate tools. Pay close attention to maintaining the proper thickness and achieving a consistent level throughout the surface. Compact the base After spreading the base material, the next crucial step is compaction. This process involves using a plate compactor or a vibrating compaction machine to compress the base material firmly. Compaction is essential as it helps to stabilise the base, preventing future issues such as sinking or shifting. Ensure you go over the entire surface multiple times to achieve thorough compaction. Layering the bedding layer Spread bedding sand and level it with a screed. Bedding sand aids in secure settling and stability of the base, while also acting as a leveling layer to smooth out minor irregularities in the road base. Measuring and Cutting Pavers An angle grinder with a diamond-tipped masonry blade is effective for smaller bricks and paver jobs. For large volumes and minimal wastage, a water-cooled drop saw is required. Ensure a straight row of pavers by using a straight edge along them during the laying process. Adjust with a rubber mallet if needed. TIP: Remember to lay the cut pavers with the smooth end facing out. Laying the stone pavers Laying the pavers on a 30mm bed of mortar will provide a more permanent installation. Align them with the string line and ensure levelness with a spirit level and mallet. Add jointing sand (such as PaveSet) to fill in the gaps. Use a mechanical plate compactor with a protective layer underneath to compact the pavers, preventing scratches and ensuring long-term stability. After the initial compaction, add more jointing sand and compact again. Lay the rest of the pavers Continue the process for the rest of the pavers, ensuring each is level, rows are straight, and maintaining the 5mm gap between them. Allow the pavers to set for at least 24 hours before walking on them. Next Steps Clean the pavers For a quick clean, use a broom and water on the pavers. For deeper stains, a high-pressure hose can be used. Let the pavers dry before applying the sealant. Sealers Not all pavers require sealing but if you prefer to apply a sealer to your pavers, follow the instructions on the packaging, use a brush for the edges, and a paint roller for an even coat. Allow the first coat to dry before applying a second one, and wait a few hours for complete drying. There you have it – a comprehensive guide to laying your own pavers and creating a beautiful outdoor space that reflects your style and vision. With the right preparation, tools, and attention to detail, you can achieve professional-looking results without the need for external contractors. If you ever find yourself in need of personalised advice or have specific questions about the process, don’t hesitate to reach out to Remastone. Our team of experts is here to provide guidance, recommend the perfect stone pavers for your project, and assist you every step of the way. Start your DIY paver project today and transform your outdoor space into a stunning oasis that you can enjoy for years to come. Happy Paving!