Do It Yourself Monday – Paver Patio

You can install a paver patio in a day or two at a relatively low cost and fairly minimal effort. It is an excellent alternative to pouring cement or building a deck and with little thought can be designed to look like a high end, comfortable and beautiful outdoor living space.

Although the larger pavers are, in my opinion, preferable it is easier to work with the smaller ones and they are more cost effective.

Clear off the area in which you want to lay your pavers, leaving it as level as possible and debris free. Spread a four to six inch layer of sand evenly over the entire area. Lay the pavers out in the desired pattern placing them in a slight twisting, rocking motion to insure firm placement. Use a rubber mallet to help even each paver with the others.

Once all pavers are placed, surround the perimeter of the patio with dirt to keep them from sliding apart and the erosion of the sand beneath them.

To prevent rocking and to tighten the pavers up, pour sand over the patio and using a broom sweep it forcing as much sand into the cracks as possible.

After a little time the pavers will settle in to their spot, the grass will grow around it and the patio will become a more solid feeling, beautiful and useful outdoor seating area that is easy to clean with a hose and a broom.

Use your imagination when placing your pavers. Go around trees. Leave a void in the center for a fire pit or sand box. There are many options and limitless ideas to make your patio your own outdoor paradise.

Visit my website at www.reutershomedesigns.com to see before and after pictures of a couple simple but effective paver patios.

Next Monday: Removing wall paper