Step 1: Watch an Overview Video

Step 2: Gather Your Materials and Tools

Materials and Tools:

pavers
gravel
sand
masonry sand
aluminum edging
landscape spikes
hammer
shovel
rakes
wheelbarrow
extension cord
power driver
vibratory plate compactor
wet masonry saw
laser level
circular saw
miter saw
rubber mallet
carpenter’s square
straightedge
water-based spray paint
1-inch diameter pole or broomstick
safety goggles
ear protection

Step 3: Dig the Foundation

Start by clearing and leveling area for patio.

Mark outline with water-based spray paint.

Dig foundation 7 to 9 inches deep to allow for base material, sand, and pavers

Tip: Make sure foundation slopes away from house 1 inch for every 8 feet.

Compact the surface of the excavated soil with a plate compactor.

Step 4: Add Gravel and Sand

Spread 2 inches of crushed stone or gravel in bottom.

Tip: Wetting gravel with water will make it easier to compact.

Rake gravel smooth and tamp down with plate compactor. Continue to add gravel in 2-inch layers until surface is 3 to 3 1/2 inches from top.

Tip: Slope should still be 3/16 inch per foot or 1 inch for every 8 feet.

Spread 1 inch of sand on top of gravel. Level sand with 1-inch diameter pole or broomstick.

Step 5: Lay the Pavers and Edging

Starting in 90-degree corner, lay pavers on sand as close together as possible. Tap pavers into place with rubber mallet.

Cut partial pieces with wet masonry saw, paver splitter, or hammer and chisel. Pavers do not need grout.

Install edging around paver. Bottom of edging lies directly on top of stone base.

Drive spikes through pre-cut holes to secure edging.

Step 6: Fill the Joints

Spread masonry sand over surface and sweep into joints.

Tamp pavers with plate compactor.

Sweep additional sand over pavers for several days to fill joints.

To ground the space, trim the edges of the pavers and lay a narrow, 2x8 border.