DIY Network

Adding Sand and Edging Adding Sand and Edging From "Hardscapes" episode DHSC-101

With the area now excavated and prepped for the addition of the patio, the next steps are to lay in a bed of sand and add aluminum ediging around the patio perimeter....

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Figure A

Figure B

Figure C

• For small areas, a hand tamper (figure A) will be sufficient to smooth out the surface; larger areas will be better served with an power tamper (figure B). The tamper will create its own forward momentum by vibration. Steer it as you would a lawnmower, going up and down the area in rows (figure C), covering the entire gravel base.

• Next add a 2-inch layer of sand (figure D). This will hold the paving stones in place while providing an even, settled surface on which to work.

• After screeting the sand layer (figure E) and before laying any paving stones, frame your area with landscape edging.

Figure D

Figure E

• Aluminum edging is recommended because it’s lightweight, flexible, and easy to use and doesn’t warp. Also, if you happen to be mowing the yard and get too close, aluminum edging won’t tear up, whereas plastic edging will shred in a second.

• Lay out the edging along the perimeter and cut to length with metal shears. The corners tend to be sharp, so heavy-duty work gloves are a must for safety.

• Secure the edging by driving 8-inch nails through the pre-drilled holes with a small sledgehammer. Remember, you’re going through sand, gravel, fabric and soil, so make sure they’re all the way in.

Figure F

Figure G

• Before starting to lay the pavers in place, snap chalk lines (figure F) along the edges of the patio to ensure the paver rows stay straight.

• To give the patio a nice framed feel, place the outer row perpendicular to the inner rows (figure G).

Figure H

Figure I

• After you get the hang of the first few, the rest of your patio will take shape in no time.

• As you lay the pavers in place, tap them down firmly with a rubber mallet (figure H).

• For pavers that need to be split to fit corners or other small spaces, simply determine the point where the paver should be broken, then position a chisel on the designated point (figure I). Strike the top of the chisel with a hammer to split the paver (figure J).

• If you have numerous pavers that need breaking, you might consider using a wet saw (figure K) to speed up the process; the saw will cut through the pavers quickly and easily (figure L).

Figure J

Figure K

Figure L

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