How to Build a DIY Paver Patio In Ontario - 11 Easy Steps

Are you considering adding a paver patio to your home?

Adding a paver patio to your outdoor space can significantly enhance its beauty and functionality. Whether you envision a cosy corner for morning coffee or a spacious entertainment area, building your own paver patio can be a fulfilling project. 

By following these 11 simple steps, you can create a stunning outdoor retreat right in your own backyard!

What is a Paver Patio?

A paver patio is a flat outdoor space paved with individual units called pavers. These pavers can be made from various materials such as concrete, brick, or natural stone. They are typically laid in a pattern over a prepared base to create a durable and visually appealing surface for outdoor activities and relaxation.

The Benefits of a Paver Patio

Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal

Paver patios present an array of design possibilities, allowing you to craft a visually stunning outdoor space. With a diverse selection of colours, textures, shapes, and patterns available, you have the freedom to create a patio that perfectly complements your home's architecture and landscape. 

Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of natural stone pavers or the modern flair of concrete pavers, the aesthetic versatility of pavers ensures that your patio becomes a captivating focal point of your outdoor area.

Durability

Pavers are renowned for their exceptional durability, making them an ideal choice for outdoor applications. Crafted from sturdy materials such as concrete, brick, or stone, pavers are engineered to withstand the rigours of various weather conditions, including extreme heat, freezing temperatures, and heavy rainfall. 

Their robust construction ensures that they resist cracking, fading, and erosion over time, maintaining their pristine appearance and structural integrity for years to come. Whether hosting lively gatherings or enjoying tranquil moments outdoors, you can trust that your paver patio will endure the test of time with enduring strength and resilience.

Versatility

Paver patios offer unparalleled versatility in design, allowing you to unleash your creativity and tailor the layout to suit your unique preferences and spatial constraints. From classic herringbone patterns to intricate mosaic arrangements, the adaptability of pavers enables you to customise every aspect of your patio's aesthetics.

Their modular nature facilitates easy installation and reconfiguration, empowering you to effortlessly modify the layout or expand the patio as your needs evolve. Whether creating a cosy retreat for intimate gatherings or a sprawling entertainment area for grand celebrations, the flexibility of pavers ensures that your patio becomes a personalised oasis of comfort and style.

Low Maintenance

Paver patios boast minimal maintenance requirements, providing you with more time to relax and enjoy your outdoor haven. Unlike wood decks that require regular staining and sealing or natural stone surfaces that demand meticulous upkeep, pavers necessitate simple upkeep routines to preserve their pristine condition. 

Routine tasks such as sweeping away debris and occasional pressure washing suffice to keep your pavers looking fresh and inviting. With their hassle-free maintenance regimen, paver patios offer a convenient and stress-free solution for enhancing your outdoor living experience without the burden of intensive upkeep.

Increased Property Value

Investing in a paver patio can substantially enhance the value and appeal of your property. 

As a sought-after feature among homebuyers, a well-designed and meticulously crafted paver patio can significantly elevate the perceived value and marketability of your home. Potential buyers are often drawn to outdoor living spaces that offer both functionality and aesthetics, envisioning themselves enjoying leisurely gatherings and alfresco dining in the idyllic setting of your patio. 

By augmenting your property with a stunning paver patio, you not only create a luxurious retreat for your enjoyment but also make a sound investment that pays dividends in terms of resale value and buyer interest.

Improved Drainage

Paver patios are engineered with efficient drainage systems that mitigate the risk of water accumulation and ensure optimal performance under diverse weather conditions. Incorporating features such as permeable pavers and strategically placed drainage channels, these systems effectively channel rainwater away from the patio surface, preventing pooling and potential water damage. 

By safeguarding against moisture-related issues such as erosion, mould growth, and surface deterioration, the enhanced drainage capabilities of paver patios ensure long-term durability and stability, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor oasis with confidence and peace of mind.

Environmentally Friendly

Paver patios embody eco-conscious design principles by utilising sustainable materials and promoting environmental stewardship. Many pavers are crafted from recycled materials or sourced from quarries that adhere to responsible mining practices, minimising their ecological footprint. 

The permeable nature of certain paver varieties allows rainwater to infiltrate the soil below, replenishing groundwater supplies and reducing stormwater runoff. By harmonising with the natural ecosystem and mitigating environmental impacts, paver patios offer a greener alternative to conventional outdoor surfaces, enabling you to create a beautiful outdoor space while preserving the planet for future generations.

Cost-Effective

Despite their initial investment, paver patios deliver long-term value and cost savings that outweigh their upfront expenses. While the upfront cost of materials and installation may exceed that of alternative patio surfaces such as wood or poured concrete, the durability and longevity of pavers translate into substantial savings over time. 

With minimal maintenance requirements and a lifespan that far surpasses that of traditional patio materials, pavers offer a cost-effective solution that minimises the need for costly repairs and replacements. 

By choosing pavers for your outdoor living space, you not only enjoy enduring beauty and performance but also make a prudent investment that pays dividends in terms of durability, longevity, and overall value.

DIY VS. Professional Installation: The Pros & Cons of Each

When it comes to installing a paver patio, homeowners have the option to either tackle the project themselves or hire professionals. From budgets to expertise, here are the pros and cons of each approach.

DIY:

Pros:

• Cost-saving: DIY installation can save money on labour costs.
• Personalization: You have complete control over the design and execution of the project.
• Sense of accomplishment: Building your own patio can be a rewarding experience.

Cons:

• Time-consuming: DIY projects often require more time and effort, especially for beginners.
• Skill requirement: Some technical skills and knowledge are necessary for proper installation.
• Potential mistakes: Errors in planning or execution could affect the quality and longevity of the patio.

Professional Installation:

Pros:

• Expertise: Professional installers have experience and training in proper installation techniques.
• Time-saving: Professionals can complete the project efficiently, saving you time.
• Warranty: Many professional installations come with warranties for added peace of mind.

Cons:

• Higher cost: Professional installation typically comes with a higher upfront cost.
• Limited customization: You may have less flexibility in design choices compared to DIY.

Building Your DIY Paver Patio in 11 Steps

Building a DIY paver patio can be a rewarding project that adds value and beauty to your outdoor space. If after reviewing the pros and cons above you have decided that a DIY approach is the right choice for you, we have outlined each of the steps to simplify the process.

Follow these 11 steps to create your own stunning patio!

1. Plan and Design

Before you start digging, take the time to plan and design your patio. Determine the location, size, and shape of your patio, and sketch out a design on graph paper or using design software. 

Calculate the materials you'll need, including pavers, sand, gravel, and any additional features like edging or landscaping. This is a great opportunity to visit your local landscape supply store for inspiration!

2. Gather Materials and Tools

Once you have a plan in place, gather all the necessary materials and tools for the project. Purchase pavers in your desired style and colour, along with sand, gravel, and any edging materials. 

You'll also need tools such as a shovel, rake, tamper, level, tape measure, and rubber mallet.

3. Prepare the Site

Clear the area where you plan to build your patio, removing any grass, rocks, or debris. Dig down to a depth of about 6-8 inches to accommodate the base layers of the patio. 

Ensure the area is level and compact the soil thoroughly.

4. Install Edging

Edging provides both functional and aesthetic benefits. Not only does it offer your landscape a clean appearance, but it also helps to guide the space.

Place edging material around the perimeter of the patio to contain the pavers. Secure the edging in place with stakes or adhesive to create a stable border for the patio.

5. Create a Base

Fill the excavated area with a base layer of gravel to a depth of 3-4 inches. Use a tamper to compact the gravel and create a solid base for the patio. 

Add a layer of landscaping fabric over the gravel to prevent weeds from growing through.

6. Add Sand Layer

Pour a layer of coarse sand over the gravel base, about 1 inch deep. We suggest using a rake to spread the sand evenly across the surface, and a screed board or straight edge to level the sand.

7. Lay Pavers

Start laying the pavers from one corner or edge of the patio, placing each paver tightly against the next one. Use a rubber mallet to tap the pavers into place and ensure they are level. Check the alignment and level periodically as you work to ensure consistency.

8. Cut Pavers 

This step is only required if it is necessary.

Use a saw or specialised paver cutting tool to cut pavers to fit along the edges or around obstacles such as trees or flower beds.

9. Fill Joints

Once all the pavers are in place, spread fine sand over the surface of the patio and sweep it into the joints between the pavers. Compact the pavers again with a tamper to settle them into place and ensure stability.

10. Finish and Seal

This step is optional.

Sweep off any excess sand from the surface of the patio and water it to help settle the sand into the joints. If desired, apply a paver sealer to enhance the appearance of the patio and protect the surface from stains and weather damage.

11. Enjoy Your Patio!

Once the sealer is dry (if applied), your DIY paver patio is ready to be enjoyed! Add furniture, plants, and outdoor decor to complete the space and create your own outdoor oasis.

Maintaining Your Paver Patio Long-Term

To keep your paver patio looking its best for years to come, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some tips for long-term maintenance:

• Sweep the patio regularly to remove debris and prevent weed growth.
• Periodically pressure wash the surface to remove dirt, stains, and moss.
• Reapply joint sand as needed to fill in any gaps or erosion.
• Check the edging periodically to ensure it remains secure and intact.
• Consider sealing the patio every few years to maintain its appearance and protect against wear and tear.

With proper maintenance, your DIY paver patio can continue to be a beautiful and functional outdoor space for you and your family to enjoy for years to come. For more information about maintaining your patio long-term, read this helpful guide!

Contact Legends Landscape Supply Today

Whether you’re looking to build a DIY paver patio, elevate an existing space or simply add the finishing touches, our team of landscape professionals are here to help. We can provide you with guidance and support, as you find the materials, equipment and essentials to elevate your backyard space.

With a bright, clean and fully stocked showroom, we proudly cater to homeowners and landscapers in the following areas:

• Burlington
• Oakville
• Milton
• Hamilton
• Ancaster
• Dundas
• Grimsby 
• Stoney Creek

For more information or help bringing your outdoor space to life, visit or contact us today. At Legends Landscape Supply, we are committed to helping you with all your landscaping needs.