How To Install A Belgian Block Along A Driveway

Step 1

Lay a chalk line along one edge of the driveway and drive nails into the driveway next to the chalk line every 5 feet. Hook the end of the chalk line to the first nail, then wrap it around the rest of the nails, keeping the chalk line along the ground. Snap the chalk line between each pair of nails to create a guide to follow when cutting the driveway's edges. Repeat this step on the other side of the driveway.

Step 2

Cut the edges of the driveway away along the chalk line with a concrete saw. Pry the cut edges of the driveway away with an edging shovel.

Step 3

Chip away any rough edges left along the driveway with a hammer and maul, and use the hammer and maul to cut the bottom of the driveway in towards the center at a slight angle to help provide a better grip for the concrete.

Step 4

Step 5

Dig a trench along each edge of the driveway. Make the depth of the trench half the height of the Belgian blocks plus 1 inch, and 3 to 4 inches wider than the blocks.

Step 6

Drive a wooden stake into each end of the trench on both sides of the driveway. Tie a mason's line tightly between the stakes in each trench, and set the line so that it's the height you want the blocks to be.

Step 7

Lay 10 blocks on the driveway along the trench.

Step 8

Mix a batch of concrete, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 9

Pour a 1-inch layer of concrete into the trench to cover the approximate length of the 10 blocks.

Step 10

Step 11

Place the first block into the concrete, pushing it up against the edge of the driveway and tapping on it with a rubber mallet until the top is even with the mason's line.

Step 12

Install the rest of the blocks in the first 10-block section, using the same method.

Step 13

Fill the gap in the trench behind the blocks with concrete until it's about as high as the driveway. Smooth the surface of the concrete with a mason's trowel to cover the back of the blocks until you're about 2 inches beneath the top of the blocks.

Step 14

Install the rest of the blocks along both sides of the driveway.

Step 15

Sweep paver base into the gap between the blocks and the edge of the driveway. Cover the concrete along the back edge of the trench with soil.

Step 16

Step 17

Plant the plants of your choice along the back edge of the Belgian blocks to provide a more attractive border.