Key takeaways
- Excavate deep enough for the base and surface together.
- Compact crushed stone in layers, not all at once.
- A thin layer of bedding sand levels the surface, and edge restraints hold it in.
- Slope the patio away from the house so water drains.
Most patio problems, such as sinking, rocking and ponding, start below the surface.
Excavate
The area is dug deep enough to hold the base, the sand and the pavers, with extra depth where the soil is soft.
Compact the base
Crushed stone goes in layers, and each layer is compacted with a plate compactor. A fabric layer can help in soft soil.
Screed the bedding
A thin layer of sand is screeded flat. It is not for structure, only for leveling.
Set, restrain and lock
- Pavers are laid tight in pattern
- Edge restraints keep the border from drifting
- Joint sand is swept in and the surface compacted
Slope
A gentle slope away from the house keeps water from collecting. Our Brick Calculator estimates the stone and sand you will need.
Related services
Questions about your own project? Call or text 615-431-3789, or use the quote form below.