One of the most crucial steps in the installation of pavers is the leveling of paving sand. It provides a firm foundation that will allow the stones to stay in place, instead of becoming uneven with time. Though it might appear to be an easy job, leveling requires time, care, and technique.

This guide will take you through all the information you need to know about the process of leveling paving sand like a pro even when it is your first time doing so.

Why Properly Leveled Sand Matters

Before we proceed with the steps, we need to know why it is important to level paving sand:

• Supports the pavers evenly
• Prevents shifting and settling
• Provides proper drainage
• Ensures a flat, even surface
• Enhances the general look and safety of your project

Uneven sand is among the leading causes of uneven pavers and cracks on walkways. Properly doing this step can save you time and money in future repairs.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Prepare the following tools and materials before you begin leveling:

Tools:

• Rake
• Shovel
• Wheelbarrow (for transporting sand)
• Screed board (long straight 2×4 or aluminum)
• Level (4-foot or longer)
• Screed rails (1-inch metal or plastic pipes)
• Broom (for final adjustments)

Materials:

• Paving sand (generally referred to as bedding sand or sharp sand)
• Gravel or crushed stone (in case you have a new base)

What Type of Sand Should You Use?

Not all sand is suitable for paving projects. Coarse, sharp sand is the best sand to use in leveling under pavers. It is not the same as beach or play sand which is too fine and does not offer adequate support.

Look for sand labeled:

• Concrete sand
• Sharp sand
• Bedding sand

These kinds interlock much better and form a solid surface upon compaction.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Level Paving Sand

Now that you understand why leveling sand is a must and which tools you require, it is time describe the process step by step.

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Check to see that your base is firm before spreading the sand. If you are installing pavers on dirt or grass, you will have to dig down and create a crushed stone or gravel base.

Here’s how:

1. Dig the ground to the right level (normally 6 to 8 inches lower than the final paver level).

2. Add a layer of gravel or crushed rock (4 to 6 inches).

3. Compact the base using a plate compactor.

4. Make the base level, and slope it a little (about 1/4 inch per foot) so that water can drain.

Note: Never lay your paving stones on soil or grass- always use a compacted base and sand.

Step 2: Set Up Screed Rails

To have a uniform depth of sand, screed rails (typically 1-inch diameter pipes or wood strips) should be used.

How to do it:

• Lay the rails parallel to one another, a little less than the width of your screed board.
• Lay them on the compacted gravel base.
• Check that both rails are level and in the direction of the slope of the base, using a level.

Screed rails assist you in dragging the screed board across the sand in a uniform manner which is the most important step to creating a flat surface.

Step 3: Spread the Sand

Next, pour sand on the space between the screed rails.

Tips for spreading sand:

• Work in small sections (around 6 to 8 feet wide).
• Evenly distribute the sand with a shovel or a rake.
• Do not step on the area after you begin to smooth it.

You’re aiming for a 1-inch-thick layer of sand. More does not mean better, because excess sand in your pavers may destabilize them.

Step 4: Screed the Sand

Now, level the sand with the screed board.

How to screed:

1. Hold the screed board over the tops of the screed rails.

2. Slowly pull the board through the sand in a back-and-forth movement.

3. Fill with more sand in any low areas and re-screed.

Ensure that the surface is smooth and level with no dents or bumps on it.

Step 5: Remove the Screed Rails and Fill Gaps

When you have screeded the sand, take out the screed rails with great care. You will be left with small grooves where the rails were.

Fill the gaps:

• With a small trowel or your hands, fill in the grooves with sand.
• Smooth it out to match the surrounding area.

Do not walk on the sand at this point. It is possible to create uneven surfaces when it is walked on and may need to be re-leveled.

Step 6: Lay Your Pavers

Your sand is now nice and smooth, so it is time to place your pavers on top of the sand.

Pro Tips:

• Begin at one corner and work outwards.
• Install pavers without disturbing the sand layer.
• Tap pavers into place with a rubber mallet.
• Frequently check levels with a long level or string line

Once all the pavers are in place, you can compact the whole surface with a plate compactor with a rubber mat.

Step 7: Final Sanding and Sealing (Optional)

After the pavers have been laid and compacted, sweep jointing sand (polymeric sand is best) between the pavers. This locks the pavers together and prevents weeds.

Optional:

• Spray some water lightly on the area to activate polymeric sand.
• Seal the surface if desired for added protection.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the simplest jobs may fail when some important steps are omitted.

Here are some things to watch out for:

• Omitting base compaction; this causes sinking or uneven pavers.
• Fine or dusty sand; this will not hold pavers in place.
• Uneven screed rails; creates an uneven surface.
• Excessive sand; leads to the shifting of pavers in the course of time.
• Stepping on the screeded sand; destroys your smooth surface.
• Be patient in the leveling process and it will be worth it all the difference.

Maintenance Tips

Once your project is complete, keep your pavers looking great by:

• Brushing in more joint sand once or twice a year.
• Cleaning off debris regularly.
• Re-leveling any pavers that shift or sink over time.