How To Lay ReadyPave Concrete Block Paving

STEP 1
Mark out the shape of the paved area using a string line and wooden pegs. Strip away the surface debris in the marked area and dig out the surface to a depth of about 15cm (6”).

STEP 2
Compact the base with a post or heavy rake, but for large areas a plate vibrator can be hired.

STEP 3
The restraints of the paved area are made from concrete block pavers laid on their edge in a stacking bond, bedded on a damp mortar mix, checked with a spirit level. You can also use wooden battens secured in position – you will need to fix a temporary wooden batten against existing walls, to support the board used to strike the sand level.

STEP 4
When the edging course of bricks has set, the inner sections of the area are covered with a layer of dry sand 7-8cm (23/4-3”) deep. Use a length of wood to compact and level the sand, using the restraints or the temporary supports to determine the correct height.

STEP 5
Lay the pavers in the pattern you’ve decided on, laying a couple of square meters at a time. With some patterns, such as herringbone, you will have to cut some pavers to finish off the edges. This can be done with a block cutter (it’s best to hire this), or with a bolster.

STEP 6
Brush dry fine sand over the pavers, ensuring that as much as possible trickles between the joints. Repeat until no more sand seems to be accepted, then use a flat-plate vibrator to settle this sand between the joints.

STEP 7
Brush in more sand, and vibrate again, repeating until the paving is stable and no more sand is accepted. If you can’t hire a vibrator, you can use a board and mallet instead, but this is a more tedious method and not as satisfactory.