1. EXCAVATION

• Mark out the area to be paved allowing a little extra for working room.
• Remove any soil, grass and all loose debris and vegetation.
• Ensure to excavate deep enough to allow for selected paving and sub base construction. For pedestrian paving projects, you can work off 100mm of road base, 30mm of sand plus the thickness of your paver. This is not applicable for driveway paving.

2. PREPARING BASE

• Distribute road base evenly over the excavated area, making sure to set up with the general fall in mind.
• Compact the road base with a plate compactor (whacker-packer) a least twice.
• Begin to spread the sand over the compacted road base to a thickness of 25-30mm.
• Screed the river sand with a timber float or straight edge. Ensure level both ways using your spirit level.

3. LAYING THE PAVERS

• Set up a string line running along the edge(s) of your paved area. The string line will help ensure your edges are straight and pavers are flush.
• Begin laying pavers starting at one end of the project and working your way across. Leave a 3mm gap between the pavers for the jointing sand to be swept in later. Ensure each paver is square with the string line and level using the spirit level. Wriggle pavers into place and tap with rubber mallet where required to ensure level.

4. EDGING AND LOCKING IN THE PAVING

• Make sure to utilise sand and cement mix to haunch or lock in the header courses that are not up against a wall. This will assist in supporting the outer course of the paved area. This is achieved by making a small sand and cement mix in a wheelbarrow and then screeding this mix along the edge of your paver from the base to approx. 75% of the paver’s height on an angle. This helps to “lock in” the paved area and to help pavers stay in their place.

Handy Tip: It does not hurt to also use a little of the sand and cement underneath the outer header course, as this will create even more strength!

5. LOCKING SAND & SEALING

• Finally we can now add the washed beach sand or locking sand in which you can purchase from your local retailer. Sweep this sand in dry and it will fill the 3mm gaps you left in the pavers
• Once the sand is settled you can use a whacker-packer with an old piece of carpet beneath it to compress and settle the pavers into the sand bed ensuring a great finish. Hose down area upon completion.
• Although not a must, sealers can enhance the look of the paver as well as protect it from both the elements, and day to day wear and tear such as food fats and general staining. Seek the right sealer for your project before starting. Contact Environex for advice.
• The very last step is to enjoy your new living area!

For further information, please download our fact sheet guide here. Contact Adbri Masonry on 1300 365 565 for all enquiries.