Hey everyone! I'm embarking on my first big DIY project at home: creating a paver walkway. The area measures 18'4" x 8'7" (the red area in the picture I've linked), and I could really use some advice on any factors I might have overlooked. I'm in a cold semi-arid climate where temperatures can dip to 0°F every few years, so I need to ensure I'm considering the right materials and methods!
Here are my planned steps so far: 1) Install a new mailbox with an 18" post hole using expanding foam; 2) Carefully relocate sprinklers 1 & 2, cutting the PVC and using swing pipes; 3) Dig down 8" for the pavers; 4) Rent a 14" vibratory plate compactor to compact the ground; 5) A few days before starting, order 3 cubic ft of 3/8" crushed rock and fill the path, compacting in 2" increments; 6) Lay an aluminum border along the grass; 7) Purchase Basalite 8"X4"X2.4" pavers (175 sq ft with a 5% excess); 8) Plan out a horizontal border with a herringbone pattern; 9) Cut the pavers using an oscillating tool with a diamond attachment; 10) Compact the pavers using a rubber mat; 11) Sweep in polymeric sand and compact; 12) Mist the pavers and sand; 13) Plan to seal the pavers later. Am I missing anything, or do you think improvements can be made? A lot of sources have conflicting opinions on the base materials, but I'm leaning towards the 3/8" crushed rock as the simplest solution for my climate.
2 Answers
For cutting your pavers, you should definitely consider picking up a 7" wet saw from Harbor Freight for around $60. It will give you cleaner cuts than an oscillating tool. Another tip: after your gravel, add a half inch to three-quarters of an inch of sand before laying your pavers. You can screed it easily using two parallel lengths of conduit, making it much simpler to level everything out.
Hey! Just a thought, but it might be a good idea to lay landscaping fabric down before the gravel to help with weed control. Also, consider using self-compacting gravel, like High Performance Bedding Stone. It's a bit pricier (around 10-20% more) but saves a ton of time since you just pour it in and level it out. Honestly, I think you'll appreciate that convenience! I live in a similar climate, and it's worked well for me. Good luck with your project!
Is the fabric mainly to stop weeds? Also, if I can't find HPB nearby, would 3/8" crushed rock be an acceptable alternative?
Won't the sand in wet conditions cause the pavers to bulge over time? I'm usually on the thrifty side, but I might splurge on that wet saw if it really helps with the cuts.