How to Level Dirt for Pavers

Though it may seem like a small detail in a paver installation project, leveling the dirt before laying down pavers is an essential step and ensures that the stones in the area are properly situated and long-lasting. Once you have removed the soil or plants within the area you want to pave, it is necessary to create a gentle slope for drainage. Simple tools around the home are helpful when leveling the dirt, and this imperative step only takes a short time to complete.

Stakes
Rubber mallet
Shovel
2-by-4 lumber

Instructions

- 1
  Create a slope in the soil so water drains away from the home during inclement weather or routine watering. At 4-foot intervals, tap a stake into the soil with a rubber mallet to serve as guidelines for the slope measurement.
- 2
  Remove 1 inch of soil for every 4 feet you move away from the home’s foundation to create a slight decline for the paved area for proper water runoff.
- 3
  Smooth out the soil with a 2-by-4 piece of lumber. Fill in any dips in the soil to create a level surface. Check that the soil is completely level before spreading the crushed gravel bed into the excavated site.

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