Replace Concrete Patio With Pavers

Replace Concrete Patio With Pavers: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're looking to upgrade your outdoor living space, replacing your concrete patio with pavers is a great option. Pavers are durable, versatile, and come in a wide variety of colors and styles. Plus, they're relatively easy to install yourself, even if you're a beginner DIYer. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Step 1: Remove the Existing Concrete

The first step is to remove the existing concrete patio. This can be done using a jackhammer or a concrete saw. If you're using a jackhammer, be sure to wear ear protection and safety glasses. Once the concrete is removed, you'll need to dispose of it properly.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

Once the concrete is removed, you need to prepare the base for the pavers. This involves leveling the ground and compacting it. You can use a plate compactor to compact the ground. Once the ground is level and compacted, you're ready to start laying the pavers.

Step 3: Lay the Pavers

Start by laying the pavers in a straight line along one edge of the patio. Use a level to make sure that the pavers are level. Once you have the first row of pavers laid, you can start laying the rest of the pavers in rows. Be sure to stagger the joints between the pavers so that they don't line up.

Step 4: Cut the Pavers

You'll likely need to cut some of the pavers to fit around the edges of the patio. To do this, you can use a paver saw or a wet saw. If you're using a paver saw, be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves. Once the pavers are cut, you can install them in place.

Step 5: Fill the Joints

Once the pavers are installed, you need to fill the joints between them. You can use polymeric sand or a mortar mix to fill the joints. Polymeric sand is a dry sand that expands when it gets wet. Mortar mix is a wet mix that hardens when it dries. Once the joints are filled, you're finished!

Tips for Replacing a Concrete Patio With Pavers

Make sure that the base is level and compacted before you start laying the pavers.
Stagger the joints between the pavers so that they don't line up.
Use a level to make sure that the pavers are level as you're laying them.
Cut the pavers to fit around the edges of the patio using a paver saw or a wet saw.
Fill the joints between the pavers using polymeric sand or a mortar mix.