How To Do A Raised Paver Patio

How to Construct a Raised Paver Patio: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you looking forward to transforming your outdoor living space by adding a raised paver patio? Whether you enjoy entertaining guests, grilling, or simply relaxing in your backyard, a raised paver patio offers an attractive and functional solution to elevate your outdoor experience. This comprehensive guide will guide you through the essential steps to construct a durable and stylish raised paver patio in your own backyard.

Before embarking on this project, ensure you have the necessary materials, tools, and safety gear. You will require pavers, gravel, sand, cement, rebar, stakes, string, a level, a compactor, a tamper, and safety glasses. It is advisable to use a wet saw to cut pavers and a plate compactor to ensure a solid base.

Step 1: Determine the Location and Size

Decide on the location and size of your raised paver patio. Consider factors such as sunlight exposure, proximity to your home, and drainage patterns. Once the location is chosen, mark the perimeter using stakes and string, ensuring that the area is square or rectangular.

Step 2: Excavate and Install Footings

Remove the sod within the marked area and excavate to a depth of 8-12 inches. Fill the excavated area with a layer of gravel and compact it thoroughly to create a solid base for the footing. Construct footings using concrete footings or concrete blocks placed along the perimeter and at regular intervals within the area.

Step 3: Build the Walls

Using concrete blocks, bricks, or retaining wall blocks, build the walls of the raised patio. Start by laying a bottom course of blocks around the perimeter, ensuring they are level. Continue stacking blocks, offsetting each course by half a block to create stability. Reinforce the walls with rebar every few courses to enhance their strength.

Step 4: Install Drain Pipes (Optional)

If necessary, install drain pipes beneath the patio to prevent water accumulation. Place the pipes at the lowest point of the patio and attach a drain grate for easy drainage.

Step 5: Fill with Gravel and Sand

Fill the enclosed area within the walls with a layer of gravel, approximately 4-6 inches deep. Compact the gravel firmly to provide a stable base for the sand. Spread a layer of sand over the gravel, ensuring it is level and approximately 1-2 inches deep.

Step 6: Lay the Pavers

Carefully lay the pavers in a desired pattern, ensuring they fit snugly together. Use a rubber mallet to gently tap the pavers into the sand, ensuring they are level and even. Cut pavers to fit around edges or curves using a wet saw.

Step 7: Fill the Joints

Fill the joints between the pavers with polymeric sand or a sand-cement mixture. Sweep the sand into the joints and then apply water to activate the sand and lock the pavers in place. Use a stiff brush to remove excess sand.

Step 8: Finish and Enjoy

Seal the patio surface to protect the pavers from stains and damage. Sealants are available in various finishes, so choose one that enhances the look of your patio. Once the sealant has dried, you can enjoy your new and beautiful raised paver patio.