How to Build a Paver Path

Before laying the pavers, prepare the space for your paver stones. 

• Start by plotting out a path and clearing away any grass to a depth of around 4 inches to 6 inches. 
• Use stakes and string to mark out the course and finished elevation of your path. 
• Use a shovel or tiller to clear the area, checking your work when you're done. 

After prepping the area where the patio pavers will go, fill in this space with paver base. 

• Fill in the path with paver base at a depth of 4 inches. About 40 bags of paver base were required to cover the 60 square feet in the example job. 
• With the paver base in place, use a tamper to level out and settle the base. For larger areas, you may want to consider a powered tamper. 

Paver base in place, it's time to apply leveling sand. You can use polymeric sand for some paver path installations. Depending on the pavers you choose, it may be a better option that creates a tighter fit when you're finished. However, it isn't always the right sand base for paving stones with larger paver joints. If you're not sure what type of sand is right for your job, talk to a The Home Depot Associate to get advice on what type of leveling sand will work best for your project.

• Apply a layer of leveling sand to a depth of about 1 inch. Twelve bags of leveling sand were needed for the example path. 
• Tamp the leveling sand down to secure it in place.

With your leveling sand in place, it's time to think about your paver stone design and layout. 

• Sketch the pattern for your stones. Even a basic layout sketch can be helpful for DIY projects. 
• Begin laying out your paver stones using measuring tape. Be patient and double-check your distances as you go along. 

With the pavers in place, you're almost done creating the perfect pathway. The next step is to add sand to the pavers. 

• Take any remaining sand and spread it across the pavers evenly. A little goes a long way here, so avoid using excess sand. 
• Use a push broom to sweep it in between the pavers. Aim to spread the sand evenly between your pavers. 

After the sand is added to the pavers, it's time to fill the spaces. You can fill the space between the pavers with a material of your choice with the goal of making your outdoor decor shine.

Pea pebbles are a popular choice, and in many backyards, they create an interesting contrast depending on the color of your pavers. Mulches help paths blend in with surrounding plant beds and vegetation.

Using additional bags of sand between pavers is also an option, though it typically works best with pavers that have closer spacing. Paved gravel can also work well in more modern setups.