How to Install a Brick Paver Edge
Last updated September 7, 2023
A clean edge between the lawn and garden gives your yard a formal and neat look. But edging serves a practical purpose, too. It keeps each element from intruding on the others. A reliable way to keep your lawn separate from your garden is to install a concrete or brick paver edge. This type of garden edging lets plants spill over a little bit from your garden but not into your lawn.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Duration:
2-4 hours
Table of Contents
Plan Your Garden Edging
Clear the Planned Area
Level the Area
Cover the Area
Spread Sand
Begin Laying Bricks
Plan Your Garden Edging
Decide where to place your garden edge. Be mindful of how you want to set it up. Use stakes, a garden hose or string to plot the course. Be aware of your sprinklers, drip system or any underground pipes or wiring.
Clear the Planned Area
Once you have outlined the area, use a shovel to dig up sod. Rake away any grass, rocks and debris.
Level the Area
Use a hand tamper or shovel to level off the area. Compact the dirt as much as possible.
Cover the Area
Cover the area with landscape fabric to keep any future weeds from popping up. Anchor the fabric in place.
If you plan to fill in with plants, arrange the border plants in the way you want them on top of the fabric. Mark each spot, then cut a hole into the fabric at each area.
Spread Sand
To help with leveling, lay polymer jointing sand under the section of landscape fabric where pavers will rest. This also helps keep pavers in place after a rain.
Begin Laying Bricks
Place four pavers in a line on top of the sand. Use a level to make sure each brick is lying flat. If some are unstable, either add more sand or use a rubber mallet to hammer them into place. Repeat in sections of four until finished. Fill in gaps between pavers with more jointing sand. When finished, follow directions to wet and set the sand.
Plant Your Garden
Add plants or flowers to the holes you cut in the landscape fabric. Cover with mulch or garden stones. You can also skip the plants. Just lay down a mulch layer for a clean landscape design.
Adding a brick paver edge to your landscape can greatly improve your home's curb appeal. The project is simple, but the result is a border with a polished outline. It’s great for showing off your landscaping.
If you’re ready to start your project, consider a paver saw or lawn edger rental to get your project done. Use once, then bring it back. No maintenance is required and you won’t need to store it either.
