If you find yourself wondering how to install interlocking paving stones, there is good news for you: this is a project that can be done DIY, using only a few simple tools and a day of hard work. Here’s how to do it.

How to Install Interlocking Paving Stones

To go about this process, you will need the following materials:

• Paint (for landscaping purposes)
• Shovel
• Tamper or compactor machine
• Mesh screen
• Edging material
• Hammer
• Sand for bedding
• Paver sealant
• Measuring tape
• Gravel
• Rubber mallet

Step 1: Clearing the Area

First , you will obviously have to choose which paving stones you want to work with. It’s also a good idea to take measurements while you go shopping. Then, demarcate the area to dig up with landscape paint.

Excavate the existing soil using a shovel. You may want to consider investing in a tiller if you find the soil to be too hard to dig up. Dig about 8 inches deep, as this is the “frost line” below which frost will not damage your pavement.

Step 2: Edging

Next, tamp the floor to soften up the moisture. Then, lay some mesh screening over the surface you’ve dug up. This will prevent weeds from growing in your area.

You will need to install some edging, which can be made of anything from plastic to brick or stone. This will preserve your paving area (for post-paving) while also clearly marking the area you want to pave (during the process) as your landscape paint may erode.

Step 3: Laying the Foundation

Lay your foundation of gravel. Every 4 feet from your home, slope the gravel about 1 inch. This will direct drainage away from your house’s foundation. Then, spread about 2 inches of sand over the gravel smoothly and evenly.

Step 4: Installing the Paving Stones

Finally, install interlocking paving stones over the bedding of sand. Start in a corner and fit the stones in their desired pattern from there. You may need to readjust the bedding as you go, removing even a few grains of sand so the stones are nice, flush and even. Seal the stones in place with some paving sealant, then hammer them in . Continue this process and voila — you have a brand new pavement walkway installed!