June 14, 2017
Paver blocks are a great way to establish a patio or any number of other hardscapes in the yard due to their considerable strength and durability. They also allow for a huge choice of colors and design patterns that no alternatives can match. Still, weather, hard impacts, improper installation, and chemical staining can take their toll. While major damage calls for brick paver professional aid, replacing a few pavers is something the homeowner can perform using these steps.
- Assemble Supplies
- Remove Old Paver
- Prepare Space
- Install Replacement
- Seal Things Up
Assemble Supplies
Having a replacement block of the right hue and dimensions is pretty obvious, but there are a few more things that should be standing by.
- Hammer
- Chisel
- Broom
- Screwdriver
- Ruler
- Stiff wires
- Sand
- Mortar mix
- Sealant
- Paint Roller
Not all of these items may be needed for a particular job replacing a paver. Check the following steps to see if certain articles listed above are required for the preferred course of action.
Remove Old Paver
If the space around the targeted paver is filled with sand, used the screwdriver to push it out while using the broom to sweep it away. If mortar has been used instead of sand, a hammer and chisel can separate it from the adjacent blocks. The common way to remove a paver is to use a screwdriver to pry it up so it can be manually grasped. Alternatively, a couple of stiff coat hanger wires can be used. Bend enough of the top length of each wire to a 90-degree angle to form a handle. Next, bend one inch of the bottom at a 90-degree angle in the opposite direction. These tools can then be slid along each side of the block and turned inward to lift the block from below.
Prepare Space
With the block out of the way, the hammer and chisel are used to knock mortar off surrounding blocks if necessary. Use the ruler to compare the thickness of the new paver to the sides of the open space. If needed, add enough sand to leave the new paver level with the surrounding blocks and use the old paver to pack it down.
Install Replacement
Next, drop the new paver into place. Either sand or mortar is then poured into the gaps around the new paver. The chisel can be used to pack down the sand so rain won’t easily wash it out.
Seal Things Up
Applying sealant can prolong the survival of the new pavers by creating a barrier against discoloration by sunlight, chemicals or even water that can freeze. Make sure the sealant creates the same appearance (glossy, matte or wet) as that of the surrounding blocks before applying it with a paint roller.
Casual Fix
Big hardscape structures (like patios or walkways) look intimidating, but this instructional showed how remarkably simple it is to get things back in order if a paver or two needs replacing. However, if you’ve bitten off a little more than you can chew, give us a call at Twin Oaks Landscape. We’ll get your pavers looking great again.
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