Mortar-set installation is a method of installing pavers that involves laying the pavers on a bed of mortar, which acts as an adhesive to hold the pavers in place. This method is more time-consuming and labor-intensive than dry-laid installation, but it provides a more durable and stable surface that is suitable for heavy traffic and vehicles.
To install pavers using the mortar-set method, the following steps are typically followed:
- Prepare the base: The area where the pavers will be installed should be excavated to a suitable depth and the soil should be compacted to create a stable base.
- Lay out the pavers: The pavers should be arranged on the surface in a dry run to ensure that they will fit correctly and to determine the best layout and pattern.
- Mix the mortar: A batch of mortar should be mixed according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using the proper ratio of cement, sand, and water.
- Apply the mortar: A layer of mortar should be spread over the base using a trowel, and the pavers should be pressed into place. The pavers should be spaced evenly and aligned straight to create a seamless and visually appealing finish.
- Fill in the joints: The spaces between the pavers should be filled with mortar and smoothed to create a seamless finish.
One of the main advantages of the mortar-set installation method is that it provides a very durable and stable surface that is suitable for heavy traffic and vehicles. The pavers are bonded together with mortar, which helps to prevent shifting and sinking over time. This method is also more permanent than the dry-laid method, as the pavers are not as easy to remove or replace. However, the mortar-set method is more time-consuming and labor-intensive than the dry-laid method, and it requires the use of specialized tools and materials such as cement, sand, and a trowel.
