Welcome to Part 2 of our 5-part DIY paver installation series for St. Augustine and St. Johns homeowners. After planning your coastal paver patio or walkway, it’s time to prepare the site. Historic Coast Pavers shares expert tips to create a stable foundation for your outdoor living space, ensuring your pavers withstand St. Augustine’s salty air and storms.
Why Site Prep Matters for Coastal Pavers
A solid base prevents pavers from shifting in St. Johns’ sandy soils, a common issue in coastal climates. Proper preparation ensures drainage, critical for St. Augustine’s frequent rains, and supports long-lasting paver patios or walkways. Skipping this step risks uneven surfaces and costly repairs, undermining your curb appeal.
Step 1: Clear the Area
Remove grass, weeds, and debris from your project site. For a St. Augustine patio, use a sod cutter ($30/day rental) or shovel to strip vegetation. Dig out roots to prevent regrowth. Dispose of waste at a local St. Johns landfill or compost facility to keep your site clean.
Step 2: Mark and Excavate
Outline your design with stakes and string, following your plan from Part 1. Excavate 6-8 inches deep for patios or walkways, or 10-12 inches for St. Augustine driveways to handle heavy traffic. Use a shovel or rent a mini-excavator ($200/day) for larger St. Johns projects. Check depth with a tape measure.
Step 3: Grade for Drainage
Ensure proper drainage to avoid pooling in St. Augustine’s rainy climate. Slope the site 1-2% (1/4 inch per foot) away from your home or toward a drain. Use a level and a long board to check the grade. For permeable pavers, popular in St. Johns, maintain a flat base to maximize water filtration.
Step 4: Compact the Soil
Compact the excavated soil with a hand tamper ($20) or plate compactor ($50/day rental) to prevent settling. Wet the soil slightly to aid compaction, but avoid mud. A firm base is crucial for coastal pavers to resist St. Augustine’s shifting sands and storms.
Next Steps
In Part 3, we’ll cover laying the base materials, from gravel to sand. Start sourcing gravel and renting tools now for a smooth DIY project.
