This article outlines the steps needed in creating a hardscape brick paver patio or driveway. The basic materials needed include the selected pavers, crushed stone, paver base, long 1 inch conduit pipes, leveling board, and edge restraints. Tools needed include a compactor, cutoff saw, shovels, etc. We explain the basic steps, giving some basic knowledge that is useful if selecting a contractor to do the “heavy lifting,” so you’ll realize what questions to ask. The discussion is based on Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI) standards that should be used by any dependable contractor.

In the Southeastern US, most suggest using at least a 4-6 inch base of crushed stone, and even up to 7 inches is suggested in areas prone to harsh winter weather. For brick pavers, this means that you’ll need to dig down to about 9″ in depth, since the pavers are 2 inches in height. Since this is a lot of digging, it may be one of the primary reasons to hire a professional.

Before digging, make sure that you understand where all underground utilities are identified. To find out, you can order a “utility locate,” by calling 811.

Next, measure and mark the area that you will be paving. Allow an extra 6-8 inches beyond the farthest dimensions of the patio to provide a firm base for the entire area of pavers and to allow for minor adjustments during the laying and cutting in of the pavers. Place stakes at the edges of the markings and attach a string line to the stakes at the final height.

Now, firm up the subsoils using a compactor with a least compressive force of 3200 pounds and begin adding 6-7 inches of crushed stone on top. Add thickness of 2-3 inches at a time until within 3 inches of the string line.

Finally, after laying out a 1 inch conduit pipe on both sides, fill the area with paver base and, by means of the pipes as a guide, begin the screeding (or leveling) procedure using a long board. The conduits will later be removed and the trenches left behind filled in with sand.

At last, you can begin laying pavers in rows and patterns selected. When all have been placed, the cutting in process may be started if needed, using a cutoff saw. Paver edge restraint and soldier course should be added to prevent dispersion and a layer of joint sand employed, which is to be swept into the cracks. Polymeric sand is suggested, which will harden after it has been added. Although not mandatory, this is a good idea to minimize insects “moving” the joint sand and week growth in the cracks in the patio.