Paver Installation Guide

Paver Installation Guide (Professional Method)

This guide outlines industry best practices for installing concrete pavers for patios, walkways, and driveways. Proper base preparation, compaction, drainage, and edge restraint are the key factors for a long-lasting installation.

Step 1 – Planning, Layout & Drainage

Plan your project area by marking the layout with string lines or marking paint. Establish final elevations and ensure proper slope away from buildings to promote drainage. Check square and straight lines before excavation begins.

Step 2 – Excavation

Excavate the project area to the required depth to accommodate the compacted base, bedding layer, and paver thickness. Remove all soft soils and organic material. Proper excavation depth is critical for long-term stability, especially in freeze/thaw climates.

Step 3 – Subgrade Preparation

Grade and compact the native soil (subgrade) to create a stable foundation. In areas with poor drainage or soft soils, additional preparation may be required to prevent future settlement.

Step 4 – Install Granular Base (In Lifts)

Install granular base material in multiple lifts (layers), compacting each lift thoroughly with a plate compactor. Maintain the planned slope during this process. The finished base should be dense, stable, and properly graded.

Step 5 – Screed Bedding Layer

Install approximately 1 inch of bedding material over the compacted base. Screed the bedding smooth and level. Do not disturb the screeded surface prior to laying pavers.

Step 6 – Lay Pavers

Begin laying pavers from a straight edge or corner, placing units tightly together. Check alignment regularly to maintain straight lines and consistent joint spacing. Cut pavers as required to fit edges and borders.

Step 7 – Install Edge Restraint

Install edge restraint along all outside edges and secure it into the compacted base. Edge restraint is required to prevent lateral movement and to maintain tight joints over time.

Step 8 – Initial Compaction

Compact the installed pavers using a plate compactor fitted with a protective pad. This seats the pavers into the bedding layer and helps level the surface.

Step 9 – Sweep Jointing Sand

Sweep polymeric sand into the joints, ensuring joints are completely filled. Compact again and top up joints as needed. Clean excess sand from the paver surface.

Step 10 – Activate Jointing Sand

Lightly mist the surface with water according to the jointing sand manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid over-watering, which can wash sand out of joints or leave residue on the surface.

Step 11 – Final Inspection

Inspect the surface for level, proper slope, and tight joints. Confirm edge restraints are secure and joints are properly filled.

Step 12 – Finished Project

Once cured, the completed installation should have consistent joint spacing, clean edges, and proper drainage. Avoid heavy traffic until the jointing sand has fully set.

Important Notes

Base depth requirements vary based on soil conditions, drainage, and load (pedestrian vs. vehicle traffic).
Proper compaction in lifts is essential to prevent settling.
Edge restraint is required for all paver installations.
In poor soil conditions, additional base depth and geotextile fabric may be recommended.

Full Manufacturer Installation Guide

For complete Belgard manufacturer specifications, cross-sections, and technical requirements, refer to the official Belgard installation resource:
https://www.belgard.com/plan-design/installation-beyond/installation/