Installing porcelain paving involves several steps to ensure a durable and aesthetically pleasing result. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it:

Materials and Tools Needed:

• Porcelain pavers
• Gravel or crushed stone
• Sand
• Cement
• Priming slurry
• Paint brush or roller
• Weed membrane
• String line
• Spirit level
• Rubber mallet
• Trowel
• Notched trowel
• Jointing compound or grout
• Plate compactor
• Spacers
• Water and hose or a bucket
• Cement mixer (optional)

Steps:

1. Plan and Measure:
   • Measure the area where you want to install the paving.
   • Plan the layout, including the pattern and any cuts you’ll need to make.
2. Prepare the Ground:
   • Excavate the area to a depth of about 150-200mm (6-8 inches) to allow for the sub-base, sand, and pavers.
   • Ensure the ground is level and remove any debris, roots, or old materials.
3. Install a Weed Membrane:
   • Lay down a weed control membrane over the excavated area to prevent weed growth.
4. Lay the Sub-Base:
   • Add a layer of gravel or crushed stone about 100-150mm (4-6 inches) thick.
   • Use a plate compactor to compact the sub-base, ensuring it’s level and firm.
5. Add the mortar Layer:
   • Spread a layer of mortar about 30-50mm (1-2 inches) thick over the sub-base.
   • Use a rake/trowel to level the mortar
   • Mix the mortar a radio of 5:1 with a general purpose cement, water and mortar plasticiser (Feb)
6. Lay the Porcelain Pavers:
   • Start at one corner and work your way across the area.
   • Use a string line to keep the rows straight.
   • Paint a layer of primer to the back of the tiles using a paint roller or paint brush. make sure this covers the full tile to make sure it gets the correct bond to the mortar bed.
   • Lay each paver onto the mortar base, using spacers to maintain even gaps between the pavers.
   • Tap the pavers gently into place with a rubber mallet, ensuring they are level with each other.
7. Check Levels:
   • Use a spirit level to ensure each paver is level and adjust as needed by adding or removing mortar.
   • Continue laying pavers, checking levels regularly.
8. Cut Pavers as Needed:
   • Use a wet saw or angle grinder with a diamond blade to cut pavers to fit the edges and any intricate areas.
   • Wear appropriate safety gear when cutting.
9. Fill the Joints:
   • Once all pavers are laid and checked for level, fill the joints with a suitable jointing compound or grout.
   • Sweep the compound into the joints with a brush, ensuring it fills the gaps completely.
10. Clean the Surface:
    • After the jointing compound has set, clean the surface of the pavers with water to remove any residue.
11. Final Checks:
    • Inspect the entire paved area for any uneven pavers or gaps that need additional jointing compound.
    • Ensure the paving is clean and any remaining debris is removed.

Tips:

• Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the porcelain pavers.
• Ensure good drainage by slightly sloping the paved area away from buildings.
• Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and reapplying jointing compound, will keep the paving in good condition.

Following these steps will help you achieve a professional-looking porcelain paved area.