Finding a Site

• One of the most important aspects of deck construction is finding the right site. Use a site that is level and flat for easier construction, and that drains quickly during any storm. Quick drainage prevents future problems with mud and standing water. Stake the corners of the patio ahead of time, and stretch twine from stake to stake to lay out the borders and design of the patio. Measure the size of your pavers and account for this in the patio design to avoid having to cut any stones.
  
  

Laying the Foundation

• All yard constructions require a footer, or base, for best security. Dig to a depth of 7 inches throughout your deck site, and run a compactor over the exposed soil to pack it down and even it out. Slope the site slightly if it sits next to the house, with the depth ending at 8 to 9 inches at the far end. This slope funnels water away from the house instead of toward it. Lay 5 inches of gravel or aggregate in the site and moisten it with the hose. Run the compactor over this layer to pack it down. Follow with 1 to 2 inches of bedding sand. Drag a board over this sand to even it out, and use a level to measure the surface. This surface gives the pavers something to "dig into."
  
  

Laying the Pavers

• Put concrete curb edgers along the border of your deck on top of the gravel and sand base. These contain the pavers and accent the deck. Use a level on the curbs to ensure straightness, and pound high points with a rubber mallet to settle them into the gravel. Lay the pavers out in your deck area, starting with one corner. Move outward in your chosen pattern. Use the level and mallet process after every two to three pavers, and use a pencil between the pavers to ensure even, consistent spacing.
  
  

Finish

• Sweep the deck to remove litter and trash, then spread 1 to 2 inches of masonry sand over the pavers. Sweep the sand over the patio to guide it into the spaces between the pavers, then run the compactor over the pavers to shake the sand down into the cracks. Maintain more sand to refill the cracks after three to four days; the sand may continue to settle, and leave larger cracks between the pavers.