Installing pavers on a flat surface is already a meticulous task—but laying pavers on a slope brings a whole new level of challenge. Sloped areas are prone to erosion, runoff, and shifting, which makes proper installation crucial. If done right, your paved surface can remain strong, safe, and stunning for years.
The Key to Success: A Strong Foundation
Most shifting problems happen because of a weak base or poor drainage. Sloped terrain adds gravity to the mix, making it even more important to follow a solid installation plan. If you're unsure about the correct approach, our full breakdown on How to Lay Pavers can help guide you through each step. And if you want design help or professional assistance, the team at Lakota Design Group is always here to help with custom outdoor solutions.
1. Understand Your Slope’s Grade
The first thing to do is determine how steep your slope is. You’ll need a line level and string. Measure the rise (vertical distance) over the run (horizontal distance) to calculate the slope. For example, a 1-foot rise over 10 feet of run is a 10% grade.
If your slope is greater than 15%, consider using retaining walls or terracing the area before laying pavers. This will help reduce soil movement and water runoff.
2. Plan the Layout With Water Flow in Mind
Always design your paved area to work with nature, not against it. You want rainwater to flow away from structures and to designated drainage areas. Sketch your layout and account for:
Drainage channels
Proper slope direction
Any retaining features or steps
This stage is all about planning. Rushing into excavation without thinking about water movement is a recipe for long-term damage.
3. Excavate Deep and Evenly
Dig deep enough to accommodate:
6–8 inches of gravel base
1 inch of sand
Paver height (2–3 inches)
Because you're working on a slope, it's important to excavate in stepped sections rather than one long slope. Create level terraces or layers where each “step” will hold a row of pavers. This minimizes slippage and helps anchor the structure.
Be sure the bottom of the excavation follows the intended slope for drainage—about a 1/4 inch drop per foot.
4. Compact and Secure the Base Layer
This is one of the most important steps. Pour crushed gravel (also known as road base) and compact it thoroughly using a plate compactor. Work in 2–3 inch layers, compacting after each one.
On sloped terrain, it's critical to lock in the gravel. Use edge restraints or even small retaining borders to hold each layer in place. If the gravel base slides, your pavers will too.
5. Add a Layer of Bedding Sand
Spread a 1-inch layer of coarse sand (not fine beach sand) over the compacted gravel. Level it with a screed board, but be cautious: on a slope, don’t screed large areas at once—sand tends to shift downhill.
Work in small sections and stabilize them as you go. You want to avoid uneven thickness in the sand layer because it creates weak spots under the pavers.
6. Lay Pavers With a Running Bond or Interlocking Pattern
Start from the bottom of the slope and work your way up. Use a running bond or interlocking pattern to help resist shifting—linear layouts may look clean but don't offer as much structural stability on a slope.
Tap each paver into place using a rubber mallet and check for level and alignment regularly. Leave consistent spacing between pavers for jointing sand later.
7. Secure With Edge Restraints or Retaining Edges
Install edge restraints or concrete curbs along the perimeter, especially on the downhill side. These hold the entire system together and prevent downhill sliding. For extra reinforcement, consider burying the downhill edging slightly to counteract gravity.
On particularly steep areas, you may want to install vertical retaining blocks at intervals between paver layers—almost like mini retaining walls.
8. Fill the Joints and Compact
Once all pavers are in place, sweep polymeric sand into the joints. This special sand hardens when moistened and locks the pavers together.
Run the plate compactor over the surface to help settle the pavers into the bedding layer. Sweep more sand into any gaps, and compact again.
Then, mist the entire area with water to activate the polymeric sand. Avoid overwatering—it only takes a light mist to cure the sand.
9. Add Drainage Features if Needed
Sometimes, even a properly sloped surface needs help with drainage. Consider adding:
French drains
Surface drains
Gravel trenches
These additions prevent water from pooling or undercutting your base layer. Good drainage keeps your pavers from heaving in wet weather.
Common Issues on Sloped Installations
Here’s what to watch out for:
Washed-out base material: Install barriers to prevent gravel and sand from washing away during rainstorms.
Shifting pavers: Usually caused by improper edging or a thin base.
Water pooling at the bottom: Fix with drainage channels or adjusting the slope.
Don’t ignore these problems—fix them early to avoid having to redo the whole surface.
When to Call in the Pros
DIY paver installations can be fulfilling and cost-effective, but sloped areas can be tricky. If your slope is steep, your soil is soft, or you’re dealing with drainage problems, professional help might be worth the investment.
At Lakota Design Group, we bring decades of experience to complex outdoor spaces. We know how to build landscapes that look good and last—especially when it comes to challenging installations like sloped patios or driveways.
Final Thoughts
With the right planning, materials, and techniques, you can confidently tackle a sloped yard and install a paver surface that stands strong for years. Want more tips? Our full guide on How to Lay Pavers walks you through every part of the process.
Or, if you’re ready to design a functional and beautiful landscape tailored to your property, reach out to Lakota Design Group. We’re here to help you shape the outdoors you’ve always dreamed of.
