Tips for Leveling a Paver Patio in Utah - Long-Lasting Backyard Bliss

Preparing the Ground for a Paver Patio in Utah

Installing a beautiful new patio made of pavers is a great way to enhance your Utah backyard. However, in order to end up with a stunning paved space to relax and entertain in, you need to properly prepare and level the ground first.

Remove Existing Grass, Plants, and Roots

Start by using a sod cutter or shovel to remove any grass, plants, bushes etc in the area you plan to install the pavers. Be sure to dig down at least 6 inches to get rid of the roots - any organic material left under the patio will eventually shift and cause the pavers to become uneven later.

Excavate Several Inches of Soil

The next key step for a lasting patio is to excavate the soil beneath where you will be installing the pavers. Remove 2 to 4 inches of dirt which allows you to create a gravel base later that can be perfectly leveled.

Install Edging to Contain the Base

Put landscape edging around the entire perimeter of the area your future patio. This edging helps contain the gravel base and prevent it from spreading. Use sturdy plastic, metal or concrete landscape edging dug several inches into the ground and backfilled on the outside.

Creating a Sturdy Gravel Base

A properly leveled gravel base underneath is vital for any long lasting paver patio that stays smooth and even for years to come.

Add Gravel and Compact It

Pour 3 to 4 inches of crushed gravel like road base into the excavated area. Use a plate compactor to pack down the gravel until it's smooth and firm. Compact in several passes, going across the area in different directions.

Check for Dips and Fill As Needed

Use a long straight board placed across the gravel base to check for any low spots or dips. Fill dips and holes as needed with more gravel, compacting until the area is completely flat and level. Check from several directions with the board.

Add Sand Then Compact Again

Spread 1 inch of coarse builder's sand across the compacted gravel base. Compact the sand layer using the plate compactor. Check for low spots or unevenness just as you did before, add more sand to any dips and compact until the base is perfectly flat and ready for pavers.

Laying the Paver Stones

Once you have a super flat and level sand base prepped, installing the paver stones is straightforward. Just follow a few key tips:

Set the Pattern and Layout

Choose your desired paver pattern like herringbone or basketweave. Mark diagonal grid lines on the screeded sand with chalk lines to guide the layout. Carefully set the pavers snugly together by hand according to your pattern.

Edge Restraints Keep Everything in Place

Install edge restraints around the perimeter to keep the paver patio contained neatly. Use plastic or metal edging dug into the base and paver edges. Cut pavers as needed to fit with gaps less than 1/2 inch from restraints.

Sweep Sand Over Top and Vibrate into Gaps

Once all the pavers are laid, sweep dry sand over the surface and into the joints. Use a plate vibrator to settle the sand completely between each paver until gaps are filled flush.

Seal the Patio Surface

Finally, apply a couple coats of quality sealer formulated for paver joints and surfaces. This protects from stains and makes cleanup easy. Let your beautiful new patio cure for a few days before use.

Tips for Keeping a Paver Patio Level Long-Term

With proper installation and care, your paver stone patio can stay smooth and level for decades.

Snow and Ice Removal Best Practices

Use a plastic shovel to gently remove snow and ice accumulations. Never use metal shovels or salt which can damage pavers. Calcium chloride formulas are safest for melting ice.

Joint Sand Top Ups

Expect to add fresh joint sand every couple years as needed to keep gaps full. Watch for ants tunneling between pavers which can indicate low sand.

Prevent Settling with Edge Restraints

Keep plastic or metal edge restraints around the patio perimeter in good shape. This prevents gradual spreading or sinking of pavers on the edges from ground movement.

We hope these tips for installing and caring for a paver stone patio help you create a gorgeous and long-lasting backyard space to make memories. Our team at Pavers Guys Utah is also here to help with all your patio construction and repair needs!

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FAQs

How deep should I excavate the soil when prepping for a paver patio?

Excavate down 2 to 4 inches. This allows gravel and sand to be perfectly leveled as your base before installing pavers.

What type of edging should I use around my paver patio?

Install durable plastic, metal or concrete landscape edging. This contains the gravel base and prevents spreading. It also keeps pavers neatly in place long-term.

What kind of base goes under a paver patio?

Start with 3-4 inches of crushed gravel such as road base. Compact until smooth and flat. Then add a 1 inch layer of coarse builder's sand. Compact that layer before laying pavers over top.

How often should I top up the sand between patio pavers?

Plan to add fresh joint sand every couple of years. This keeps gaps full and prevents settling or shifting of pavers from ground movement or erosion between them.