The recommended space between installed pavers is 3 mm (⅛”).
When installing pavers, maintaining a consistent gap is crucial for stability, drainage, and overall appearance. While it might seem like a small detail, the size of the joint significantly impacts the longevity and function of your paved surface.
Recommended Paver Gap
Based on standard practices for paver installation, the advised gap size is quite specific:
- Metric: 3 millimeters (mm)
- Imperial: ⅛ inch (in)
This gap is intentionally narrow. It's designed to be filled with jointing sand or polymeric sand, which locks the pavers together and helps prevent shifting and weed growth. The reference explicitly states this recommended size.
Measurement Details
For clarity, here's a quick look at the recommended measurements:
| Measurement Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Millimeters (mm) | 3 mm |
| Inches (in) | ⅛ inch |
Maintaining Consistency During Installation
Achieving and maintaining this precise gap during the laying process is important. It's not just about setting pavers side-by-side; periodic checks are necessary.
- Placement: Set pavers close together initially, allowing for the minimal recommended gap of 3 mm (⅛”). You are not expected to measure each gap with a ruler, but rather aim for this slight separation.
- Alignment Check: To ensure the layout remains straight and the gaps are consistent, you should stop approximately every 4 feet during installation.
- Using a String Line: At these stopping points, pull a string line taut along the laying face of the pavers.
- Adjusting Alignment: Use a tool, such as a screwdriver, to gently adjust the paver faces along the string line. This helps correct any minor deviations and keeps the rows straight, indirectly helping maintain the intended gap size.
Following these steps helps create a uniform surface where the 3 mm (⅛”) gaps are consistent across the entire project.
