Concrete paving stones are a versatile and durable solution for creating beautiful pathways and patios in your garden. Today, we want to present you with a simple guide on how to make concrete paving stones.

Sometimes, hardscape design allows for rewarding and cost-effective DIY projects – but things need to be handled carefully to ensure you end up with a good product.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of how to make concrete paving stones for your outdoor space and help you make the best choice for your outdoors.

How to make concrete paving stones

Step 1: Planning and gathering of materials

The first step in your project is to ensure that you have gathered all the requisite materials and tools.

Head over to your local home improvement store to gather Portland cement, sand, and gravel – the fundamental ingredients for crafting durable and aesthetically pleasing paving stones.

Determine the ideal shape and size for your paving stones. The versatility of this DIY project allows you to tailor the stones to your personal preferences and requirements of the area you intend to pave.

Consider the overall design, functionality, and dimensions of the space where the stones will be placed. Once you have a clear vision, acquire or construct molds that align with your chosen design specifications.

Using the right molds plays a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of your paving stones – and these can be bought in home improvement stores.

That said, suppose you’re feeling particularly hands-on about using materials such as wood or plastic. Just make sure to pay attention to the molds’ dimensions and intricacies to ensure the precision and uniformity of your paving stones!

Step 2: Prepare the mold

To enhance the ease of demolding your finished paving stone, it is crucial to properly prepare your mold.

Begin by applying a reliable release agent to the interior surface, as this ensures a seamless separation of the cured concrete from the mold.

Two effective options for release agents are vegetable oil and specialized mold release sprays, both of which create a slick barrier that facilitates the extraction process.

When applying vegetable oil, generously coat the inner surface of the mold, making sure to reach all corners and crevices. This natural release agent is readily available, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly.

As for mold release sprays, they are designed specifically for this purpose, offering a convenient and efficient solution. Follow the product instructions for optimal application.

For molds constructed from wood, it is advisable to seal them to prevent water absorption. Wood tends to swell when exposed to moisture – which can compromise the integrity of the mold over time.

To mitigate this risk, apply a wood sealer or waterproofing agent to the exterior of the mold. Ensure that the sealant thoroughly covers the entire surface, paying special attention to joints and seams.

Step 3: Mix the concrete

It is essential to follow precise proportions and guidelines to create a durable and well-balanced concrete mix. Begin by using a concrete mixer or a designated mixing container to ensure uniform blending.

To create the optimal mixture, combine the following ingredients in the specified ratios:

• 1 part Portland cement
• 2 parts sand
• 3 parts coarse gravel or crushed stone

Before introducing water, mix the dry ingredients to achieve a uniform distribution. This initial blending ensures that everything is well-dispersed, laying the foundation for a structurally sound concrete.

Once the dry components are mixed, gradually introduce water into the blend. Add water in controlled increments, continuously mixing the materials as you go. The objective is to reach a homogeneous and workable consistency throughout the entire mixture.

To assess the right moisture level, the concrete should be moist enough to hold its shape when pressed together without crumbling, yet not excessively wet.

Step 4: Fill the mold

Pour the mixed concrete into the mold, ensuring a uniform distribution throughout. Take care to avoid any unevenness, as this will contribute to the overall strength and aesthetics of the final product.

As you pour, be mindful of the corners and edges of the mold to guarantee that the concrete reaches every nook and cranny.

Once the mold is filled, tap it gently on a flat surface. This eliminates any trapped air bubbles within the concrete mixture and levels the surface to perfection.

You can also opt to use a trowel to smooth the surface of the concrete and ensure it reaches all corners of the mold. If desired, create a decorative pattern or texture on the surface using additional tools.

Step 5: Cure the concrete

Cover the mold with plastic sheeting to slow down the drying process and allow the concrete to cure for at least 48 hours, or follow the curing time recommended for the specific type of concrete mix you’re using.

During this period, it is imperative to protect the concrete from any disturbances, fluctuations in temperature, and excessive exposure to sunlight.

Consider consulting the manufacturer’s guidelines or specifications for the specific concrete mix, as they often provide tailored recommendations for the optimal curing duration.

Step 6: Remove the paving stones

After the curing period, carefully remove the concrete paving stone from the mold. If you encounter resistance, tap the sides of the mold or use a pry tool to release the stone.

Once the concrete paving stone is removed, inspect it for any imperfections. You can use sandpaper to smooth out rough edges or add a sealer to enhance durability and appearance.

Read as well: Paver maintenance – The most complete guide you’ll ever find

How to make concrete paving stones: choosing a better option

Learning how to make concrete paving stones can be a satisfying DIY project that allows you to create customized pathways and patios for your garden. However, especially for those without previous experience, it can be a difficult task. You might end up with an aesthetically unpleasing paving stone or, even worse, a product that is not reliable.

Therefore, going with proper concrete paving stones is always the best choice. That way, you don’t risk ruining your hardscape project.

Trust us, we here at S&S Pavers have been working for 14 years in the hardscape business – and we have seen many projects ruined because of DIY elements. So, if you’re not sure you can handle it, your best course of action is to hire professional hardscape contractors you can trust around your area to help you.

And if you happen to be around the Sarasota and Manatee counties, in FL, we can gladly provide that aid for you. Get in contact anytime for a free estimate on our services so we can start helping you as soon as possible!