Better Homes and Gardens (Australia)
5 PAVER BENCH
Easy to work with, tumbled pavers have the same earthy feel as stone, but cost less. So choose them!
Gather your supplies
• Gravel
• Tumbled pavers in one size for base and one for top
You’ll also need
Tape measure; shovel; 600-900mm level; rubber mallet; brush; landscape adhesive
Here’s how
STEPS 1 Before building the bench in its final location, put it together for a ‘dry fit’ on a level surface. Make adjustments as needed. After finding the design you like, measure the base of the bench.
STEPS 2 Mark the bench on the ground and excavate 100-150mm deep in wellpacked soil, making the hole a few centimetres longer and wider than the bench base. Fill the hole with gravel and carefully level it.
STEP 3 Lay the first course of pavers. As the foundation of your bench, it should be completely level. Use a long level to spot pavers that are slightly lower or higher than the rest. If necessary, tap high pavers with a rubber mallet or lift low pavers and fill underneath.
STEP 4 Lay the second course, using a different pattern than the first one. Check all sides with a level to ensure they’re plumb. With mallet, tap protruding pavers into place so they’re flush with the rest. Continue laying courses of pavers until your desired bench height is reached.
STEP 5 Lay the top course of pavers. Measure the overhang to ensure it’s the same along entire length of the ends and sides (opposite). Tap pavers with a mallet to make minor adjustments.
STEP 6 Remove 2 or 3 pavers from the top course, brush off any dust or loose material, and apply a bead of landscape adhesive to attach the pavers (this will provide a heavy-duty bond that will hold up to rain and seasonal changes). Give each paver a few gentle taps with the mallet to ensure good contact with the adhesive.
STEP 6 Repeat with another 2-3 pavers at a time so you maintain the proper positioning of the top course. Let the adhesive set for at least a day before using the bench. Finish the scene by planting your favourite ornamentals next to the bench and adding mulch to conceal the exposed gravel around the base.