Traditional Installation

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  Step 1: Planning

  1. Draw a sketch of the area to be landscaped with interlocking paving stones. Your sketch should include area measurements.
  2. Choose paver size, style and colour.
  3. Detail your job layout accordingly in order to minimize the need to cut or trim the pavers on the job.
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  Step 2: Excavation

  1. Ensure the area is free of underground lines. If you spot a wire, do not proceed. Call the appropriate utility and have them check it out.
  2. Ensure the area is properly drained.
  3. Prepare the site by excavating the foundation to allow for a crushed stone base to suit soil conditions and intended use. All topsoil should be removed. Required depth for a pedestrian area is 7cm to 10cm (3" to 4"). Required depth for a vehicular area is 15cm (6") or more.
  4. Thoroughly compact the base layer to the desired grade and contour using a mechanical vibrating compactor (plate tamper).
  5. Spread a loose layer of sand approximately 2.5cm (1" inch) thick over the area. Draw a straight board across a guide (such as the edge restraint curb or parallel pipes laid on the base) to evenly distribute the sand for the bedding course. The depth of the sand should allow for the thickness of the paver and a small amount of compaction. Do not compact, walk on or disturb the leveled sand.
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  Step 3: Laying the Paving Stones

  1. From an established straight line and a corner, start laying the pavers in the desired pattern.
  2. Maintain straight lines by periodically stretching string lines parallel to and perpendicular to the original straight edge.
  3. Work off the laid stone and progressively lay each row until the entire area is paved.
  4. Finish the project by using a stone splitter or masonry saw to cut pavers where needed.
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  Step 4: Completion

  1. Sweep the area clean in preparation for tamping.
  2. Using a small mechanical tamper, lightly tamp the entire area in both directions to bed down the pavers uniformly.
  3. Dispense a layer of sand over the paved area and sweep the sand into the joints and tamp again.
  4. Continue to cover with sand and vibrate until joints are full and each paver is locked to its neighbour.