6 Easy Steps on How to Install Travertine Pavers for Outdoors

Travertine pavers help create some of the most beautiful patio decks in the world. They’re durable, wear-resistant, and have a timeless beauty that never goes out of style.

But you’re an avid DIYer, you might be wondering…

– How do I install travertine pavers?
– Is it a job I can tackle myself?
– Or should I leave it up to the professionals?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this 5-minute read, we’ll take a quick look at how to install travertine pavers with the dry set method so you can see if it’s a job you can handle yourself.

Let’s get started!

Step #1: Prepare your tools

Here are the basic tools and supplies you’ll need:

Pavers
Gravel or crushed limestone
Concrete sand
Polymeric sand
Shovel
Wheelbarrow
Plate compactor (you can rent one at local hardware stores)
Grinder with masonry cutting wheel
Measuring tape
Level
String
Safety gear (earplugs, dust mask, safety glasses)

Step #2: Mark the area and excavate

Measure and mark the area where you’ll install the pavers. You can do this with some wooden stakes and string or with marking spray paint.

Then you need to remove a layer of topsoil. For outdoor spaces like patios, walkways, decks, or sidewalks, remove at least 4-6 inches of topsoil.

Step #3: Add aggregate and compact

Now it’s time to create a solid base or foundation for your natural stone pavers. This is a really important part of the travertine installation process that will go a long way towards making a long-lasting patio deck.

*IMPORTANT! – Don’t forget to account for an inch or two of sand and the thickness of the pavers when determining how much aggregate to add.

Add crushed gravel or crushed limestone to fill in what you excavated. Add it in layers, 2-3 inches at a time, compacting as you go.

*PRO TIP – Spray some water on the aggregate base as you compact it. It will help it compact better and stick together.

Step #4: Add a top layer of sand

After compacting the layer of coarser aggregate, it’s time to add a layer of finer material. This could be granite fines or concrete sand.

Add a 1-2 inch layer, lightly compacting and smoothing as you go.

*PRO TIP – Lay some pieces of PVC pipe on top of the first layer of fill. They should be about 4-8 feet apart. Fill in between the pipes with sand. Use a 2×4, resting on top of each of the pipes, to screed or smooth off the top of the sand. Then remove the pipes and fill in the gaps with sand.

Step #5: Install the pavers

There are tons of different patterns to choose from – french pattern, running bond, herringbone, etc. Make sure the pavers will be laid parallel with any prominent features like a pool, house, or deck.

As you place the pavers, lightly tap on them with a rubber mallet to set the paver and make sure it’s level with the surrounding pavers.

Use a grinder or masonry saw to cut pieces that go around the edge.

Step#6: Fill the joints

Spread polymeric jointing sand over the surface and use a broom to push it into the joints and spaces between the tiles.

Then, run the plate compactor over the surface of the pavers to help the sand settle and to further set the travertine tiles into the sand base. Sweep or blow excess sand off the top of the pavers and spray the patio with water.

Travertine Paver Installation FAQs

Can I install travertine pavers on my own without a professional mason?

If you’re a handy DIYer, then you can probably handle a small travertine paver installation project. But for larger pool decks and complicated designs, it’s best to call a professional. The last thing you want is to spend $$$ on travertine materials only to have an unsightly patio with sinking tiles after a year or two.

Should I install travertine over sand or a concrete surface?

In most cases, it’s best to install pavers over compacted gravel and sand bed. However, some travertine paver installation projects can be done over a concrete slab and mortar bed. Travertine pool coping should always be installed over a concrete beam with flexible mortar.

Should I seal travertine pavers?

Sealing travertine pavers and other natural stones is a good idea. It will help prevent permanent staining and make them easier to maintain.

*Check out our article on How to Clean Travertine Pavers.

How can I stop my travertine pavers from sinking?

The best way is proper installation of travertine pavers over a thoroughly compacted bed of gravel and sand. If too little solid is removed and the gravel isn’t properly compacted, with time the pavers will sink.

*That’s why we suggest you hire professionals for the job. If you’re in the Garland, Dallas, Texas area, give us a call at A&X Masonry and get your FREE consultation. Let’s make your dream patio become a reality!