How Do You Install Turf in a Backyard?

If you’re wondering how to build a patio with pavers, you’re already on the right path toward creating a durable, attractive outdoor space. Paver patios are one of the most popular hardscape upgrades for San Francisco Bay Area homeowners — and for good reason. They’re long-lasting, flexible, and visually timeless when installed correctly.

At GLscape Inc., we specialize in professional paver patio installation throughout the Bay Area. In this guide, we’ll explain how paver patios are built, what they cost, how to maintain them, and the most common mistakes homeowners make — so you can plan your project with confidence.

Why Choose a Paver Patio?

A paver patio is made from individual stones installed over a compacted base system. Unlike poured concrete, pavers move slightly with the ground, making them ideal for Bay Area soil conditions.

Key benefits include:

Excellent drainage
Crack resistance
Easy repairs and replacements
Wide range of styles and layouts

When properly installed, a paver patio can last 25–30+ years.

Ground Preparation & Base Materials (The Most Important Step)

One of the most common forum questions is: Can you lay turf directly over dirt?

Short answer: No.

What should you put under turf in a backyard?

A proper turf base includes:

Excavated soil
Weed barrier fabric
Crushed rock or decomposed granite
Mechanical compaction

Laying turf directly over dirt almost always leads to sinking, ripples, and drainage problems — especially in Bay Area clay soils.

If you want turf to last 10–15+ years, base preparation is non-negotiable.

Step-by-Step: How to Build a Patio with Pavers

1. Plan the Layout and Design

Start by defining the patio’s purpose — seating, dining, entertaining, or outdoor cooking. Choose your paver style, pattern, and size, and plan for proper drainage.

Expert tip: Always slope the patio 1/8″–1/4″ per foot away from the house to prevent water buildup.

2. Excavate the Area

Excavation is one of the most critical steps.

Dig 7–9 inches deep for patios
Remove all organic soil and roots
Keep edges clean and square

Skipping proper excavation almost always leads to sinking or uneven pavers.

3. Build a Strong Base

A professional-grade base is non-negotiable.

Base system includes:

Crushed gravel (3/4″ minus) installed in layers
Mechanical compaction after each layer
Proper grading for drainage

This base supports weight, prevents shifting, and protects against seasonal soil movement common in the Bay Area.

4. Add Bedding Sand

A 1-inch layer of bedding sand is screeded smooth on top of the compacted base. This layer allows precise leveling of the pavers but should not be compacted beforehand.

5. Lay the Pavers

Pavers are placed tightly together in the selected pattern, starting from a straight edge. Alignment and level are checked frequently to maintain a clean, professional finish.

Popular patterns include:

Running bond
Herringbone (strongest interlock)
Basket weave.

6. Install Edge Restraints

Edge restraints lock the patio in place and prevent long-term spreading — a step many DIY projects overlook.

7. Joint Sand & Final Compaction

Joint sand (often polymeric sand) is swept into the gaps and compacted to lock pavers together. This reduces weed growth and keeps the surface stable.

Estimated Cost to Build a Paver Patio (Bay Area)

While prices vary based on materials and design, here’s a realistic Bay Area cost breakdown:

Item	Estimated Cost
Pavers	$5–$15 per sq. ft.
Base materials & sand	$3–$6 per sq. ft.
Labor (professional install)	$10–$20 per sq. ft.
Total Installed Cost	$18–$35+ per sq. ft.

Complex designs, premium stone, drainage work, or retaining walls can increase costs.

At GLscape Inc., we provide transparent estimates tailored to your property and design goals.

Expert Maintenance Tips for Paver Patios

One of the biggest advantages of pavers is low maintenance — but a little care goes a long way.

Professional maintenance tips:

Sweep regularly to prevent debris buildup
Rinse with water or mild cleaner as needed
Reapply joint sand every few years if necessary
Seal pavers every 2–3 years for color protection and stain resistance
Address low or shifted pavers early to prevent spreading issues

Well-maintained pavers look great for decades.

Common Mistakes Amateurs Make When Building a Paver Patio

Many DIY patios fail due to avoidable errors. The most common mistakes we see include:

Laying pavers directly on dirt
Inadequate base depth or poor compaction
Ignoring slope and drainage
Skipping edge restraints
Using the wrong sand or materials
Rushing the layout and alignment

These mistakes often lead to uneven surfaces, drainage problems, and costly repairs.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

While DIY may seem cost-effective, professional installation ensures:

Correct base preparation
Long-term stability
Proper drainage
Clean, finished edges

For Bay Area homes, professional installation is often the more cost-effective option over time.

Why Homeowners Choose GLscape Inc.

At GLscape Inc., we design and build custom paver patios across the San Francisco Bay Area using proven installation methods and premium materials.

What you get with us:

Expert craftsmanship
Local soil and drainage knowledge
Durable, code-compliant installations

Patios designed to last — not settle

Final Thoughts

Learning how to build a patio with pavers is about more than placing stones — it’s about creating a strong foundation, proper drainage, and a space you’ll enjoy for years. When done right, a paver patio becomes a seamless extension of your home.

Ready to build your patio the right way?
Contact GLscape Inc. today for a professional paver patio consultation in the San Francisco Bay Area.

FAQ: Paver Patio Installation

Q1:How long does installation take?
Most patios take 3–7 days, depending on size and complexity.

Q2:Do pavers handle Bay Area weather well?
Yes — when installed correctly, they perform exceptionally well in both wet winters and dry summers.

Q3:Can pavers be repaired individually?
Absolutely. One of the biggest advantages of pavers is easy repair without replacing the entire surface.