How to re-lay travertine pavers?

[Palms128]

As part of a recent project, half of the travertine pavers from our patio were lifted up so that heavy machinery didn't end up cracking them. The work is now complete and I'm planning on relaying the pavers back down but want some guidance on the best method and adhesive to use.

The existing laid pavers were dry-set on a bed of 20-30mm of sand, over an existing paved concrete area. This made the pavers easy to lift up, however also meant that they are prone to move around a little. I have 3 methods that I'm considering:

1) Relay a compacted sand base, as before
2) Lay the removed pavers with tile adhesive (though this may require relaying all pavers given there would be a height difference with the current dry set pavers)
3) Lay the removed pavers and set with mortar

I'm leaning to option 3 as it sounds like the most straight forward and cost effective method to DIY.

Any advice or suggestions are very welcome!

[EricL · Accepted solution]

Hi @Palms128 

I'm leaning towards option three as well. Fixing your pavers permanently will save you a lot of re-positioning in the future. I suggest having a look at this guide - How to prepare and lay a base for pavers. This guide links to the other two guides on how to lay and seal pavers. It may be extra work in regards to preparing the base, but once you have it ready, your pavers can be locked into place.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[Palms128]

Thanks @EricL . I think that's the plan, though I don't think I need to lay a compacted road base given the current base is an old, stable and level concrete patio.

Thanks for your help!

[EricL]

Hello @Palms128 

Please keep us updated with your progress, we look forward to seeing your pavers reassembled and locked in place.

Eric

[Palms128]

Happy with the outcome!

[MitchellMc]

Awesome result @Palms128!

Many thanks for the update.

Mitchell