When considering a renovation for your home, there are many decisions to be made. One of the primary decisions you need to make is whether you or someone else will be doing the work. There are some projects that are better left to professionals self contained compactor service you should first check to see if you are capable of doing some of them yourself. When choosing to pave an outdoor section of your property, belgard pavers are an easy way to do the paving yourself.
Concrete pavers are one of the easiest methods to paving a section of your outdoor property and have relatively decent pricing. The top three uses for concrete pavers are:
– Pool Decks
– Patios
– Driveways
10 Easy Steps to Install Belgard Concrete Pavers
Step One: Plan
Choose the area that you plan to pave. Make out drawings and take write down the dimensions of the area. Also take note of anything that may be in the way of your paving plans (shrubs, trees, etc).
Step Two: Preparations
Before starting the excavation process, contact your local utility companies. Stake out the area you wish to pave, but add 12″ to the area. Make a plan to slop the paving project away from any structures (house, garage, etc) to make sure water doesn’t drain into the buildings.
Step 3: Excavation
Before laying your belgard pavers, you must first excavate the area. If there will only be pedestrians walking on the paved section, you should lay a base of processed gravel. To do this, you will need to excavate 7″-9″ so you will have enough space for the base materials, sand, and the pavers (if around a pool or traffic area- 6″-8″). Remember, excavate 12″ past the area that you want to pave.
Step 4: Base
Place gravel on the excavated soil. You may need to use a plate compactor, which can be rented. You will know that the area is compact enough when you leave no foot impressions after walking on it. You want the gravel to be 3″ to 3.5″ from the final level you want it to be. Don’t forget to slip the area for water drainage (it should be 3/16″ per foot).
Step 5: Restraints
To prevent your pavers from rolling or spreading- you should install edge restraints (such as PVC).
Step 6: Sand
Before laying your pavers, you must first lay your bed of sand. But, before laying the sand, you need to lay down screening. Do not step on or compact the wet sand after screening.
Step 7: Begin Pavers
You must now begin layering your pavers in the pattern of choice. Be sure to work outward to make sure you keep your lines straight. Once to the edge, cut the pavers to fit around the restraints.
Step 8: Cutting
Cut any of your belgard pavers that do not fit properly. This can be done with a hammer or chisel.
Step 9: Compact
Remove any debris from the area and spread some masonry sand over the surface. Use a plate compactor to set the pavers.
Step 10: Finish
Use the remainder of your dry sand to fill any joints.
