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How To Build A Paver Patio

Measure, price, and prepare the materials for build a paver patio.

Finished paver patio with planting border, attainable home setting
Illustrative project example

Set a drainage plan and a complete layer specification before buying pavers.

Measure the project

Measure paved surface, perimeter edges, compacted base, bedding, and paver coverage.

Estimate the main material
Paver system layersPavers, bedding, compacted base, and prepared subgrade are separate layers. Depths depend on the approved design.paversbedding materialcompacted baseprepared subgrade
Pavers, bedding, compacted base, and prepared subgrade are separate layers. Depths depend on the approved design.

Material checklist

  • Pavers
  • Compacted base aggregate
  • Bedding sand
  • Edge restraint
  • Joint sand

Check quantities, specifications, and delivery with your supplier. This list is a planning prompt, not a construction design.

Quantities to price

  • Pavers: area ÷ piece coverage, with visible pattern and cut allowance.
  • Base: compacted design volume, then supplier loose-volume conversion.
  • Bedding and joint material: follow separate layer and product coverage rules.
Where the plan can change: Door heights, drainage, and edge restraint can change both excavation and material totals.

Work sequence

  1. Excavate and grade
  2. Compact base
  3. Screed bedding
  4. Lay pavers and finish joints

Further guidance

Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association: Paver technical guidance. Follow local requirements and product instructions for the actual installation.

Before you buy

Hardscape · articleA 20 × 20 Patio: Turn The Plan Into A Comparable QuoteBreak a 400-square-foot patio estimate into pavers, base, bedding, joints, edges, excavation and delivery before comparing bids.Open page