How to lay paving stones

Which Paving Stones Should I Use?

There are as many different types of paving stones as there are types of stone. Outdoor paving stones vary in size, shape and materials.

The most important factor is whether your stones are calibrated or riven.

- calibrated paving stones have been worked so that they have a similar thickness. This allows you to use screed bedding or individual bedding methods. They can be more expensive than riven stones.
- riven paving stones and reclaimed paving stones can show considerable variation in thickness. They require the individual bedding method outlined below.

What Tools and Materials Do I Need?

- Paving stones
- Bedding material (mortar)
- Rubber mallet
- String
- Wooden stakes
- Measuring tape
- Pen and paper
- 10mm spacers

How Do I Measure?

First draw out a rough sketch of the area to be paved. Experiment with different designs until you find one your are happy with. Using string and wooden stakes, mark out the design in the area to be paved. Adjust the string until you are satisfied, then measure the area you have bounded by string and note the measurements on a drawn plan.

How Do I Lay Paving Stones?

Remember:
- To achieve a symmetrical flow, begin in the centre of your design and work outwards.
- your paving should have a fall of 1:80 to aid drainage. i.e. there should be a fall of 1cm vertically for every 80cm you pave horizontally.
1. Prepare the ground by digging out soil to a depth of (thickness of your paving stones)+(25mm)
2. Spread mortar about 35mm thick over an area about 100mm larger than your paving stone.
3. Lay the paving stone down on top of the mortar.
4. Tap the paving stone with the rubber mallet until it is flush with the ground.
5. Put pressure on the edges of the slab to see if it rocks. If so, fill gaps with mortar.
6. Repeat steps 2-5 with your other slabs, separating each slab with 10mm spacers.
7. Allow the mortar to dry for 48 hours.
8. Mix three parts sand with one part cement to form dry mortar.
9. Remove the spacers and brush the dry mortar into the gaps between the paving stones.
10. Pack the dry mortar down with a trowel.
Repeat steps 9-10 at least 4 times.
11. Brush away excess mortar.
12. Spray the surface of the paving stones with water to activate the mortar.
13. Allow to dry for 48 hours.