A paver walkway is one of the best weekend projects for adding curb appeal without a big budget or a contractor. With mild fall temperatures back in Southwest Florida, now is the time to get the base work done before the ground gets soggy again next summer.
Why Mason Sand Matters
The biggest mistake DIYers make is skipping a proper sand base. A compacted layer of mason sand levels out the ground, lets water drain instead of pooling, and gives pavers a cushion so they don’t crack or shift underfoot. Skip it and you’ll be resetting sunken pavers within a year.
How to Build It
Mark your path and dig down about four to six inches, then compact the soil. Add a two-inch layer of mason sand and screed it flat with a straight board. Set your pavers in your chosen pattern, tapping each one level with a rubber mallet. Once they’re all in place, sweep more sand into the joints to lock everything together, then compact the whole walkway one more time.
Finishing Touches
Line the edges with steel or plastic paver restraints so the sides don’t spread over time, and consider a border of small crushed shell or mulch along the path to tie it into the rest of the yard. Unplugged Designs delivers mason sand, paver base, and shell by the cubic yard, so you can size the load to match your project.