Before You Begin

This is a difficult project that's best left to a landscaping contractor who has experience working with stone pavers. It involves leveling the surface while at the same time providing drainage so rain and snow runoff won't settle beneath it. Another challenge is establishing a square corner so the stone pavers will be laid out running parallel and perpendicular to the sides of the house.

A good foundation for the stonework is essential for a sound foundation so the project begins with removing any sod or lawn. Calculate the depth of the foundation based on a gravel base of about 4-inches of compacted gravel, covered by 2-inches of sand and the thickness of the stonework, which is usually about 1-inch. In the layout allow for a 1-inch slope for every 8 feet of run away from the house.

When the soil is removed to the correct depth and it is level, a plate compactor (from a rental center) compresses the soil to provide a sound base for the stonework.

• Step 1 : Make guide boards and a screed board

  Cut guide boards of 1x3 lumber and fasten them to the side of the house. Run a guide line to the outside perimeter of the patio. Then cut a screed board to use to level the surface by cutting notches at both ends so the board fits over the guide boards as you pull it across the surface.

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