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Design a Paver Patio or Walkway
Take the time to map out your patio before you start digging a hole for a new patio or walkway. When you're finished designing, check out Laying the Foundation for a Patio or Walkway at Lowes.com/Videos for Part Two of this three-part series. You'll learn the proper way to build a strong base for your project. Then, complete the project with Part Three, How to Install a Paver Patio.
Tools & Materials
Use this checklist when you go to the store and purchase your items.
Patio Size and Location
Think about how you'll use your patio. Consider building a patio near a pool or along the house if you want a place to entertain friends.
Include a walkway and small patio near a garden for a quiet retreat for you and your family.
Create an outdoor kitchen with a barbecue area for summer cookouts near your house, so you don't have to walk far for cooking supplies.Design your patio large enough to accommodate outdoor furniture that you already own and want to use.
Design your patio large enough to accommodate outdoor furniture that you already own and want to use.
Map Out the Space for Your Patio
Before beginning any excavation, check for underground utilities. Call the North America One Referral Service at 1-888-258-0808 (or just dial 811) for a national directory of utility companies.
Step 1
Mark off the paving area with nylon mason string and stakes.
Step 2
Level the strings with a line level.
Step 3
Check the area for square by measuring the diagonals. If they're equal, the area is square. If not, make any necessary adjustments.
Step 4
Mark the ground with marking paint.
Step 5
Step back and look at the marked area. Make sure that you won't disturb any nearby tree roots when excavating the ground.
Step 6
If you aren't satisfied, adjust your lines and mark again.
Making Curves in Your Patio
Random Curves
- Lay a garden hose on the ground in the desired curved shape.
- Cover the hose with sand.
- Remove the hose to reveal a curve in the sand.
Radial Curves on Corners
- Tie a piece of string to a stake that is equidistant from the two adjacent edges.
- Tie the other end of the string to a can of marking paint to form a compass.
- Spray the curve on the corner.
- Look at the area again and make any adjustments.
Project Information
- Skill Level: Beginner
*Time and Cost are estimated.