DIY Paver Patio

Written by Batchelder & Collins on July 28, 2020.

Paver patios are a popular home improvement project that many homeowners will take on themselves because it adds both form and function to any backyard space.

It’s perfect for DIYers at any level because it really doesn’t require specialized skill but rather a willingness to do the work to get the job done. An easy project that will transform your backyard with low overhead costs and no professional help needed? We can only imagine you’re shouting at the screen: “Sign me up!” We got you covered, just keep on reading.

DIY Paver Patio Step #1: Start with a Plan

Starting off the project by spending a bit of time thoroughly planning out your paver patio is going to pay dividends in the amount of time and potential overhead costs you’ll save.

Choose what part of your backyard that you want for your patio and mark off its perimeters using landscaping paint or stakes and string. Calculate the area of the patio in square feet as this will help you to determine how much material to buy.

Another crucial part of the planning step is selecting pavers that fit your color preference but are also readily available. If you want to incorporate a special pattern that requires different color pavers, make sure to plan that in advance so that you are purchasing the proper amount of each. Batchelder & Collins has countless options for you to choose from, no matter what style you’re going for.

DIY Paver Patio Step #2: Gather Your Materials

Get your list of materials and the quantities you’ll need before going to the Batchelder & Collins location that is most convenient for you. If you’re not sure exactly how many pavers you’ll need, we’ve done an entire blog post on how to calculate those numbers so make sure to check it out. Here’s what you’ll need:

A 4-inch layer of finely crushed gravel over the entire patio area
A 1-inch layer of concrete sand to go over that
Edge restraints for the perimeter
A 6-foot piece of 2×4 lumber
A pick
A rake
A shovel
A heavy-duty broom or two
And of course, your chosen paver

DIY Paver Patio Step #3: Excavate the Patio Area

First things first, you’ll want to excavate the area of the patio to a depth of 5 inches for the gravel and concrete sand plus the depth of the pavers that you chose. Compact the soil firmly using a heavy-duty plate compactor or hand tamper.

Then add in the 4-inch layer of gravel, leveling it out with the rake.

DIY Paver Patio Step #4: Lay the Patio

Starting in one corner, add the 1-inch layer of concrete sand to a small square of space, about 4-foot x 4-foot. Screed the sand using the piece of lumber and smooth it out as much as you can to get it as level as possible. From there, you’ll want to place your first paver so that it sits flush to the edge restraints and lower it onto the sand. Continue adding pavers against the edge restraints.

Once you’ve reached the edge of the sand area, make another section of sand about the same size, screed it, then layer on the pavers. Continue this process until you’ve got the entire patio covered.

Then add another ¼-inch layer of sand on top of the laid pavers and use the heavy-duty broom to sweep it back and forth, working it into the bracks between the pavers so that they sit securely in place. Sweep away the excess and you’re done!

Now sit back, relax, and enjoy your new paver patio and make sure to check out our backyard guide for even more ideas on how you can maximize your outdoor space.