How to Lay Paving Stones
3 Oct 2019 Landscape Design
Whether you are looking to put in a garden path, install a natural deck for a swimming pond or koi pond, or simply want to set up a walkway from your deck to another portion of your yard, knowing how to lay paving stones properly can be exceptionally useful. At Fontana Landscapes, we strive to set up our clients with the most beautiful, natural-looking backyard paradises possible through different landscape installations.
How to Lay Paving Stones
The best way to lay paving stones will depend on the type and size of paving stones being installed as well as the type of ground on which they are being installed. If you are setting up the landscape from scratch, it is easiest to lay the paving stones before doing anything else, such as spreading mulch or planting. If the paving stones are being installed in a pre-existing garden or landscape, the task becomes a bit harder and the tactics change. The basic steps to install paving stones is as follows:
1. Plan the Placement and Mark the Ground
Begin by measuring out the space where you intend to place the pavers. Mark the edges with paint and stakes.
2. Clear the Existing Landscape
If there is pre-existing grass, mulch, plant life, or anything else where you intend on laying the paving stones, clear it out so that you can work on the raw earth. Cut out the edges of the area and dig out whatever is in the way.
3. Lay the Paver Base
Paver base is used to help level the ground and provide stability. Lay the base in the dug-out area and level it with a rake. Compact the base and wet it.
4. Pour Paver Sand
Paver sand will fill in the gaps in the paver base and form a more compact, level surface to lay the paving stones on. Compact the sand and be sure not to step on any finished areas.
5. Lay the Paving Stones
Starting at one corner, begin laying your paving stones. Lay them in a way that forms a triangle, working towards the opposite corner as you go. Some types of paving stones will interlock or require a specific pattern to be followed, but others might have simple, flat edges. Make sure you follow the right pattern for your specific paving stones.
6. Spread More Paving Sand
To finish the process, spread more paving sand on top of the stones to fill in the gaps between them. Move it around to work it into the gaps, and then sweep off what is left.
To learn more about how to lay paving stones in a way that will enhance your landscape, or if you have any questions about the services that we provide, please contact Fontana Landscapes by filling out a contact form on our website and we will get back to you.
