How To Install Concrete Pavers

Ask This Old House mason, Mark McCullough, helps a couple install a concrete paver patio.

by Mark McCullough Updated 08/07/2024

Project details

Skill

5 out of 5 Hard

Cost

$3–$7 per square foot

Estimated Time

12–14 hours

Installing concrete pavers is an excellent way to enhance your outdoor living space and increase your home’s curb appeal. This durable and versatile paving option can transform a plain patch of grass into a beautiful patio, walkway, or driveway. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of installing concrete pavers, drawing insights from This Old House expert Mark McCullough. In the video above, McCollough demonstrates the installation process for a new patio in a residential backyard.

Choosing the Right Pavers

Concrete pavers come in several colors, styles, and sizes and cost between $3 and $7 per square foot, according to HomeAdvisor.

McCullough recommends choosing a darker color paver, as it may fade over time. In the video, he installs Andover Collection Stone Cleft pavers in the Richfield Blend color, which offers a natural stone appearance. Opting for pavers that complement your home’s exterior and landscape will enhance the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space.

Determining the Project Size

The size of your paver project should complement your existing outdoor features. An 8-foot-by-10-foot or 10-foot-by-10-foot area looks natural and not out of place for a patio. For larger spaces, consider adding multiple areas of interest, such as seating zones or pathways, to break up the space and make it more functional.

Gathering Materials and Tools to Install Pavers

To install concrete pavers, you’ll need the following materials and tools:

Preparing the Concrete Paver Site

Begin by marking the area for your patio or walkway. Use stakes and string to outline the perimeter. Excavate the area to a depth of 8–9 inches, maintaining a consistent depth throughout. A pickaxe can help loosen tough soil, making it easier to dig. Consider the slope of the area for proper drainage. This prevents water from collecting on the surface, which could lead to damage over time.

Once you’ve excavated the area, use a plate compactor to tamp down the soil. This creates a firm base for your pavers and helps prevent future settling.

Creating the Base for the Pavers

A solid base leads to stable and long-lasting pavers. Follow these steps:

  1. Add and compact stone pack: Pour a layer of stone pack material over the excavated area. Rake it out evenly, then use the plate compactor to tamp it down. This creates a stable foundation for your pavers. The stone pack helps distribute weight and prevents shifting over time.
  2. Lay the sand bed: Add a layer of concrete sand over the compacted stone pack. Rake it out evenly, then compact it with the plate compactor. The sand helps hold the pavers in place and allows for minor adjustments during installation.
  3. Screed the surface: Use a screed board to level the sand surface. McCullough emphasizes creating a slight pitch away from the house for proper drainage. Check the pitch using a level on the screed board. Proper screeding avoids dips and high spots, ensuring a smooth, finished surface.

Installing the Pavers

With a level base prepared, you’re ready to start laying the pavers.

  1. Establish a square layout: Use your house’s foundation as a reference point for your pavers. Measure equal distances from the foundation to set your stakes and string lines. Use a framing square to verify that your layout is perfectly square.
  2. Lay the first pavers: Begin laying pavers in one corner, working your way outward. Use a mallet to secure each paver in place, and check for level before moving on to the next one. Many pavers, like those used in the video, come with a template book to guide you in creating specific patterns.
  3. Cut pavers (if necessary): You may need to cut some pavers to ensure a perfect fit around edges or obstacles. Use a masonry saw or paver splitter for clean, precise cuts. Safety equipment, such as goggles and gloves, is essential when cutting pavers to avoid injuries.

Concrete Paver Finishing Touches

These finishing touches will wrap up your paver installation:

  1. Install edging: Place plastic edging along the perimeter of your patio or walkway. Secure it with the provided stakes to keep the pavers from shifting over time. Edging helps maintain the shape of your patio or pathway and prevents grass or soil from encroaching on the paver area.
  2. Apply polymeric sand: Sweep polymeric sand into the joints between pavers. This special sand hardens when wet, locking the pavers in place and preventing weed growth. McCullough demonstrates the process in the video, showing how to apply and activate the sand. Using polymeric sand also adds to the durability and appearance of the finished project.
  3. Activate the sand: Lightly spray the patio with water to activate the polymeric sand. As McCullough advises, avoid spraying directly down to prevent washing out the sand. Allow the patio to cure for about an hour before use.

Maintenance and Care for Concrete Pavers

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your new pavers looking their best. Sweep your pavers regularly to remove debris. For deeper cleaning, use a mild detergent and a stiff brush, followed by a thorough rinse with a garden hose. Keeping the pavers clean prevents staining and keeps them looking fresh.

Consider applying a paver sealer every few years to protect against stains and enhance the color of your pavers. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.

When it comes to repairs, address any loose or sunken pavers promptly to prevent further issues. Lift the affected paver, add or remove sand as needed, and replace the paver.

Resources:

Mark installed Andover Collection Stone Cleft pavers in the Richfield Blend color, which are manufactured by Ideal Concrete Block.

Compactors can be rented at most home centers and landscape supply stores.

The other materials Mark used, including pack, concrete sand, and polymeric sand, can be purchased at landscape supply stores.

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