How to lay crazy paving

When choosing your pavers, think about the look and feel you wish to achieve. Consider the texture, density and natural colour variations. Also consider where you will be applying the pavers – for example, your backyard, patio, pool, garage, walkway, driveway or garden.

To break your pavers, place your paver on a brick. Using a hammer, carefully break each paver into various shapes and sizes. Aim for small, medium and large pieces to work with.

Prepare the concrete by cleaning it off with a hose and a broom, removing any dust and debris. Alternatively, you can use a pressure-washer. Allow the area to dry before moving onto the next step.

Tip: Did you know you can hire a pressure washer in-store? (Available in selected stores.)

Using a paintbrush or paint roller, go ahead and apply an even coat of primer. This will help your tiles to bond with the adhesive. Allow to dry.

Crazy pavers are essentially a large mosaic project and you can get as creative as you like with the design. Have fun with it and try to mix up the different shapes and textures together. Start with the outside edges, as these will need to sit flush against the edge of your concrete path.

We recommend laying down at least 3m by 3m to get a good idea of what you’ll be working with. Alternatively, you can replicate your pathway and place your design on MDF or cardboard.

Tip: Take a photo of each section before you begin working on it so you remember the design.

Begin with the large pavers and gradually fill in the gaps with the smaller pavers. Maintain consistent gaps between each paver. Do not go above or below the gap size you’ve chosen by more than 10mm. Don’t line the paving pieces consistently with each other. Remember, it’s called crazy paving! You want it to look crazy and organic.

Prepare the tile adhesive in a plastic bucket according to the instructions on the packaging. Using a notch trowel, apply an even 15mm layer of tile adhesive on to the concrete, working in small areas. Apply the adhesive to the back of each paver before placing it down, working piece by piece.

Remember to step back every few pavers to ensure you’re happy with the look. Allow to dry at least 24 hours.

Once you’ve applied all your pavers, prepare the grout in a bucket following the instructions on the back of the packaging.

Apply the grout in between each paver at an angle. Push it into the gaps using a grout float to ensure there are no air bubbles.

Using a sponge, clean off the excess grout on each paver and allow it to dry overnight.

Lastly, apply a tile and grout sealer using a paint roller and allow it to dry completely. This sealant will protect the grey pavers from rain and reduce the growth of mould and mildew.

Check out our guide on how to tile an outdoor splashback.