At Western Interlock, we are committed to making hardscape installation easy and approachable. In this blog post, we look at two simple techniques for you to implement no matter the grade of your project so that you are completely happy with the final result.
So, your project area is not completely even. What can you do?
If you are working with minor inconsistencies in your project area, a string line is the easiest and most common way to make a reference point for your project.
To do this easily, simply tie a string line between two stakes to mark where you want the top of your paving stones to be. Make sure that it is set to exactly where you want your project to end up. It should not be stuck on anything or pulled down by unevenness in the ground underneath. This is especially important if you are working with inconsistencies in your grade—even minor inconsistencies.
Once you set up your string line, shave away any dirt underneath that you need to so your final grade is perfectly flat. If you do the work upfront to make sure your grade is consistent, you will have the ideal end result of evenly laid paving stones.
What about the times you might not want to use a string line at all? This typically happens if you’re installing pavers on a very sloped grade. A sloped grade might show up on a paving stone driveway, a walkway down a hillside, or just any slope in your grade that is gradual and consistent.
A string line is not very helpful in these situations with a sloped grade. If you stretch a string line to make it flat across the dip and contour of the ground, you will end up bottoming out where the ground begins to slope.
Instead of using a string line, you will need to measure as you excavate to ensure that your paving stones will be laid consistently.
Use the top of your ground as a reference point, and dig along with the contour so you can round your paving stones to match the ground where needed.
As you excavate, you may want to leave an inch or so of paving stone above the ground so that it can drain well. Simply measure from the top of the ground as you’re excavating so that it can be consistent throughout the whole project.
Whether you are working with minor inconsistencies or a significant slope in your grade, it is possible to lay your hardscape precisely. If you want more tips for installing and maintaining your pavers, check out our DIY with WI page for access to tutorials, guides, and more. If you’re ready to get started today with installing your hardscape, click here to check out our paving stone selection and install the patio or driveway of your dreams.
Choosing a paver can sure feel overwhelming. You have to consider size, style, thickness, color, and more. That’s why we made a short and simple quiz that asks a few questions about what you’re looking for and, at the end, provides a recommendation, or two, you can start with.
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