How To Design and Build Paver Patios

1. Planning and Design

Decide the Location:

• Ideally we coordinate with the homeowner to choose a flat area in your yard that is well-drained. If that is unavailable we look at other options like possible regrading and using a retaining wall to level the area.
• We also consider the functionality of the area of the patio. What is the access from the home? What will be the use of the patio, dining, cooking, sitting etc.?

Measure the Patio Area:

• We carefully measure the length and width of the future patio to get the total area for calculating the amount of materials needed.

Discuss Budget

• Having a predetermined budget is important to be able to scale the project to meet any budget constraints. The type of paver as well as the size of the patio will be impacted by the available funds.

Create a Detailed Design of the Patio Layout

• The design options increase dramatically with paving stones. Classic square patios are always an elegant option but organic shapes with curves can help blend the patio into the existing landscape. Modern paver shapes like a hexagon are also available. 

Select Paver Style and Material:

• Choose the type, size, and color of pavers to use. Popular materials include brick, porcelain, concrete, or natural stone. 
• Paving stones with stunning textures and natural stone finishes, classic favorites like cobblestone and brick pavers offer a dizzying amount of choice. Our designers work closely with you to choose the right combinations for your project. 
• Consider texture and pattern. Pavers come in a variety of shapes (square, rectangular, circular) and textures (smooth, tumbled, rough). Pairing the right paver with the house style is key. 
• Using different styles of pavers in the same patio as well as a contrasting edge can be the difference in having the final outcome of the patio look professional vs DIY.

2. Preparation

Prepare the Site:

• Our installers will remove any grass, plants, or debris from the marked area.
• Digging out the area to a depth of about 6–8 inches depending on the paver used. 

Install GeoTextile Fabric:

• This differs from “weed fabric”. Geotextile fabric offers superior strength and better drainage properties for water flow and filtration. It is also very long lasting.

3. Building the Base

Adding the Gravel Base:

• Crushed limestone is used in two layers of two different sizes. The larger size is below, and the smaller on top for leveling the pavers.
• The base is compacted using a plate compactor. The base will be firm, stable and level with a slight slope (about 1/8 inch per foot) away from buildings or structures to ensure proper drainage. 

4. Laying the Pavers

Starting the pattern:

• Straight, herringbone, basket weave, etc.
• A small gap is left between each paver (typically 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch) to allow for joint sand.

Pavers Cut as Needed:

• Pavers will be cut to fit around edges or corners using a masonry saw or paver cutter.

Adding the Paver Edge

• Pavers are set along the edge into a plastic edge piece with spikes that will help keep the pavers together.

Pavers Tapped into Place:

• As pavers are laid, they are tapped gently with a rubber mallet to settle them into the base and keep the pavers level.

5. Filling the Gaps

Adding Polymeric Sand:

• Once the pavers are in place, a layer of fine polymeric sand is spread over the patio.
• The sand is swept into the gaps between the pavers

Compacting the Pavers:

• The plate compactor is run over the pavers to settle them into place. Additional sand may be added as needed and the area will be swept/blown off to ensure residual sand is off the paver surface. The sand will be watered in to activate the polymers which harden the sand.

6. Finishing

Clean and Seal :

• Cleaning the paver surface with water and a mild detergent to remove any dirt or debris if necessary.
• If desired, a paver sealer can be added to enhance the color and protect the surface from stains and weathering.

Our skilled installers will create a high-quality, long-lasting, and visually appealing paver patio that elevates your outdoor living area. Contact Greenleaf Landscaping today for a complimentary consultation.