DIY Paving

Measure the area to be paved with your tape measure. Obtain the length and width measurements, then multiply them together to determine your total area. Add 5 to 10 percent of the area to your total figure to ensure you have enough material.

Visit a building supply store or paving supplier to choose and purchase your paving blocks. Buy pavers with a minimum depth of 2 inches for foot traffic; vehicle traffic requires pavers that are at least 4 inches deep. Employees at the store will tell you how much material you need based on your total area.

Prepare the ground you wish to pave by removing all grass, rocks and loose soil with a shovel. Compact the ground with a plate vibrator to create a flat surface.

Add a layer of damp bedding sand (a medium-grade sand also known as "river" or "sharp" sand) that is 1 inch deep. If vehicles will drive on the pavers, make the sand layer 2 inches deep. Use 30 cubic feet of sand per 36 square feet of area if you're laying it 1 inch deep. Use 30 cubic feet per 18 square feet if you're laying the sand 2 inches deep.

Compact the sand with the plate vibrator. Ensure the sand is level by using a long level across the surface. Fill any uneven areas with additional sand and compact it. Drag a long board across the surface to get a smooth, even base.

Lay out several pavers to form your desired pattern. Leave a 1/5-inch gap between paving blocks; brick pavers require no gap. Continue laying the blocks, working your way out to the edges. Tamp the blocks with a rubber mallet every 10 square feet.

Measure and cut pavers to fit around the edges of your paving area, if necessary. The type of saw you use depends on the type of paving blocks you selected. Consult with your paving supplier to find out what kind of saw is appropriate for the thickness and material of your blocks.

Mix four parts dry sand to one part dry cement and spread it over the paving blocks once they're all in place. Push the sand and cement mixture into the cracks with a hard-bristle brush. Tap the pavers to settle the mixure. When all the cracks are filled, sweep the excess mixture off with the brush. Spray a fine mist of water to dampen the pavers and harden the sand and cement mixture. Let it dry thoroughly before use.