Patio Pavers - A do-it-yourself patio option  Spring means spending time outdoors and for many of us that means our own little backyard paradise. However a suitable surface for the barbecue grill, table, and chairs is a must. Here are some tips for creating your own custom paver patio.
 Paver Options
Pavers are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and materials so you can create almost any look you desire. Do some careful shopping at the home center or brick supplier to make your final decision. The pavers seen here are brick pavers designed specifically for the dry fit installation we're describing (English Edge from Pine Hall Brick - www.pinehallbrick.com). What make them special are the small ribs on the edges that will allow sand to sift in between the bricks when the installation is complete.
 Preparation
Begin by clearing and leveling the area to be paved. You will want to remove all plant matter and you may even treat the area with weed killer before you begin paving. To ensure that water will run off the paved area (for example, away from the house) create a slight slope by grading the ground to drop about 1/4' per foot in the direction you want the water to travel. Then pack the soil down firmly with a hand tamp or allow a good rain to do the job for you.
 Layout
Next you'll want to define the patio area with the material that will contain your pavers. 1x4 or 2x4 treated lumber (redwood, cedar, or cypress) works well for this or you can purchase flexible plastic edging (for creating curves) to do the job. The lumber or edging is staked in place to create a perimeter form around the area to be paved. Spread one to three inches of course sand inside the forms. Level the sand with a screed board made from a straight 2x4. To ensure that the sand is the same depth throughout the area, nail scraps of wood on both ends of the 2x4 at equal heights from the bottom. These scraps, or ears, will rest on the forms as you drag the screed across the space, keeping the sand at a uniform level. Leaving the thickness of a paver from the top of the form down to the sand level works well.
 Laying the Pavers
Now you're ready to begin laying pavers. You can use any pattern you like (basket weave, herringbone, running bond, etc.) just be sure you keep them tight together. This is where the small ribs mentioned earlier come in handy. They allow you to push the bricks snuggly together and still leave space for the sand, which is the next step. When all the bricks are in, spread sand over the whole surface and work it into the spaces with a broom. You may have to reapply sand over the first week or so as traffic and water cause it to settle into the gaps. This kind of patio surface is easier for the do-it-yourselfer than pouring concrete and it can be much more attractive. Plus it drains well because it's not solid and you can change the size and shape of the area as your needs change.
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