How to install your own paving: a step-by-step guide
Upgrade your property by installing your own paving. With a selection of different materials to choose from, you can install paving that matches the unique style of your home. Whether you want to improve your outdoor area for your own enjoyment or to boost the value of your property, there are plenty of advantages to embarking on a new paving project. List your house on GotProperty today and connect to buyers across South Africa.
Plan ahead
Proper planning is the key to success when it comes to home improvement projects. Decide where you want to install the paving before you get started. Once you’ve chosen a location, you can make a scaled drawing of its design. Don’t forget to include enough drainage in the project plan.
Check for cables or pipes
Before embarking on any construction project, it’s necessary to check that there are no cables or pipes in the area where you’re working. Hitting a cable or pipe can cause expensive damage to your property and it’s also dangerous.
Select your material
With a wide selection of pavers to choose from, it’s easy to find what you’re looking for. Most pavers are made from brick or concrete. They also come in a range of sizes and shapes. You’ll need to take your finances into consideration when you make your decision. Measure the area where you’ll be installing the paving so that you can calculate the number of pavers you need. Order a few additional pavers as you may need to cut a few of them to match your design. The more intricate your design, the more pavers you’re likely to need.
Prepare the area
Ground preparation is vital to the success of your project. If you skip this step, it is likely to result in numerous problems later. Loose bricks and sagging are common issues that are caused by inadequate preparation. Dig up the area and remove any roots, weeds or stones. The depth you dig to will depend on the height of the pavers. When you’re preparing the ground, make sure that you get the levels and drainage right. Next, compact the surface using a hand stamper or a plate compactor.
Lay the base material
The base material that’s required depends on the type of paver you’re using. Drainage and durability are important considerations when you’re selecting a base material. Once you’ve made your decision, lay the base material and level it with a flat tool.
Installation
With the preparation completed, it’s time to install your own paving. Lay your paving according to your original plan, which can include an attractive pattern. It’s advisable to begin in one corner and work towards the other side. String can be used to ensure that you keep the paving straight. Lay the pavers closely together to ensure that you build solid paving. An angle grinder can be used to cut the paving as necessary. Add edge restraints to the perimeter of the paving to keep the pavers stable.
Grouting
Mix plaster sand with cement to produce the grouting. Next, spread the grout across the paving so that it fills the joints. Use a hose to spray off the excess grouting so that the surface looks neat. This step seals all the gaps between the pavers and improves its durability.
Clean up
To end off your project, clean up the area so that you can admire the finished results. Rake the surrounding area and remove any debris. Pack away your equipment and store any excess material that you could use for future projects.
When you install your own paving, you increase the value of the property without spending a fortune. Selling your home? List your house on GotProperty today.
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