Technical Resource Guide_WEB_BEL25-D-516650 - Page 17 of 84

17 | belgard ® product installation guide | belgard.com | 877-235-4273 STARTING LAYING PATTERNS Starting the first few rows of the pavement requires attention to the order of placing the pavers. The proper order for beginning herringbone patterns with a rectangular paver is illustrated below. The installation begins at a 90 degree corner. When placing the pavers, it is important to maintain consistent joint spacing of 1/16 in. to 3/16 in. Consistent joint width of approximately 1/8 in. will spread loads (vertical interlock) better than wider joints. Consistent joint spacing will result in a neat and orderly appearance of the finished pavement. The 1/16 in. spacer ribs molded into the sides of pavers are to ensure a minimal joint and that at least some sand can enter the joints between pavers. They are not intended to be the spacing mechanism. The "click and drop" method is an efficient way to maintain consistent joints. Click and Drop Procedure: • While holding a paver, the bottom 1/4 in. to 1/2 in. should "click" firmly against the top portion of the side of the pavers already placed. • Do not hit the previously placed pavers so hard that they move. • Release grip, dropping the paver an inch or so directly downward. A slight pressure with fingers will ensure that the paver does not move away from those already placed.