When you start thinking about installing pavers, there are a lot of options to consider: paver styles and colors, patterns, and the layout. Then there’s the budget, which can often be a major factor in determining how many pavers are needed to make your vision a reality.
When estimating the number of pavers you need for your project, start by measuring the area in square feet. This is the best way to determine how large or small of a space you need to cover with pavers, and will help in planning your budget. You can find the exact square footage of your project using an online calculator, or by going to a home improvement store and getting an estimate from a paver sales professional.
Next, choose a paver style that will match your design. Then you can go about figuring out how much material you need to purchase, based on the number of pavers in your pattern and the size of each paver. It’s always a good idea to include an extra 10% of materials in your budget, as there will likely be waste with any paving project. This can be a result of cutting the pavers to fit your specific layout, or it could be the result of the excavation process if you’re installing a patio, driveway, or walkway.
It’s a good idea to call 811 before digging Paver Installation any part of your project, as this will ensure that you don’t hit buried utility lines. Once you’ve notified the proper authorities, dig out your paver base. You will need a layer of base material that’s a minimum of four inches thick, and it should be compacted with a hand tamper or plate compactor. This will create a strong base that will keep your pavers in place. It’s important to maintain a slope with the base, as this will prevent pooling and promote drainage.
Once the base has been installed, it’s time to install the edging. This can be done manually with a shovel and a hammer, or you can use a power edging tool for quicker results. Once the edging is in place, add a final layer of sand to the area. It’s important to keep the sand level, and you should also use a paver tamper on it regularly to prevent it from settling or shifting.
Finally, begin laying the pavers in your pattern. Make sure that all of the edges are tightly fit together, and use a string and a level to check that they are straight from one row to another. You can use polymeric sand to fill any gaps, but it’s important that the sand is not too loose or the pavers may shift and become uneven over time. It’s a good idea to wear work gloves for this project, as it can be messy and difficult to handle. It’s also a good idea to ask an expert for assistance, as the process of installing pavers can be complex.