A paving order is easier to plan when the quantity, layout and installation checks are brought together before work begins. This checklist helps you prepare the questions for your installer and supplier. The exact paving and installation-product instructions still determine how the work is carried out.
Draw the area and the edges
Sketch the proposed paved area and split an irregular shape into sections you can measure. Mark doors, existing walls, steps, drains and inspection covers. Add the position of borders and changes in direction. Your installer can then review the layout, finished levels and drainage before the quantity is finalised.
Use the actual slab or paver dimensions in the drawing. Check how a mixed-size pack's pattern fits the space, or where a single-size layout will leave cuts. Agree an allowance for cuts and future replacements for this layout instead of applying the same percentage to every project.
Translate the plan into the option sold
Check the selected pack's coverage or piece count. If the order is sold as whole packs, divide the area required, including the agreed allowance, by that pack's coverage and round up to a whole number. If it is sold by piece, use the product dimensions and planned joints to calculate pieces. Do not use the area of a sample option to calculate a full patio.
Keep edging, steps and installation materials as separate lines. Their quantities may depend on length, profile, joint dimensions or the fixing method, rather than the patio area alone. Our pack and pricing guide explains how to compare selling units.
Confirm the laying system
Ask your installer to specify the support, bedding, joints and any primer required for the selected paving. Manufacturer guidance for bonded porcelain paving explains the importance of a compatible primer and full support on the mortar bed. Those instructions should not be replaced with a generic method copied from another material.
Natural stone needs the same care in planning for the site and chosen product. Confirm which way the slabs should face, how their appearance will be reviewed and whether pieces should be blended from different packs. Do this before permanent fixing.
Prepare for the order and installation day
- Check that the product, colour, finish and selected options match the plan.
- Confirm quantities and any unresolved dimensions with the supplier.
- Discuss delivery access, unloading and a suitable storage position.
- Check the delivered items and review the layout before fixing.
- Keep the correct paving, primer, jointing and care instructions available.
Read Before you order and browse installation and care products. Product compatibility, delivery arrangements and the project schedule should be confirmed for your order.
Further reading
Pavestone porcelain installation guidance and Pavestone natural stone guidance provide manufacturer examples. They do not establish the specification of a different supplier's product.