Uploaded January 2025 | Updated September 2026, 8 minutes ago
Learn four effective ways to remove and replace concrete paving stones. We’ll cover techniques for handling different types of joint material, plus tools you can use, from simple screwdrivers to professional equipment. Here’s a breakdown of each method:
Determine Joint Material: Identifying whether you have polymeric sand or regular sand in the joints will affect the method. For polymeric sand, use xylene, SureStrip, or boiling water to loosen it. For regular sand, water alone often does the trick.
Using Screwdrivers: If you have flathead screwdrivers, they’re perfect for prying up pavers. Insert from opposing sides, carefully wiggle the paver, and tap the surrounding area with a mallet to release it.
Using Putty Knives: Thin, stiff putty knives are a great alternative to screwdrivers, especially for narrow joints. Insert from opposite sides, apply pressure, and tap surrounding pavers with a mallet for an easier lift.
Paver Extractor Tool: Specialized paver extractor tools make removal smoother by gripping the paver while allowing wiggle room. Adjust it to fit, apply pressure, and use a mallet to help the paver release.
Use a Vacuum Lift: Great for lifting pavers without bending over. With different sized pads, you can choose the the right fit for all sizes of pavers. Now you can lift even large pavers, all while standing!
These methods will make paver removal easy for any project. Be sure to explore our channel and website for more hardscape tips and tutorials!
… … … … …
0:00 Intro
0:22 Screw Drivers
1:02 Putty Knives
1:45 Extractor
2:20 Vacuum Lift
3:27 Outro
… … … … …
At Western Interlock, we are dedicated to inspiring and empowering DIY enthusiasts. Our paving stones and retaining wall blocks, combined with our comprehensive guides, tutorials, and tips, help you create stunning outdoor spaces. Whether you're working on patios, driveways, garden walls, or walkways, we provide the materials and knowledge to help you achieve professional-quality results on your own.
Subscribe to our channel for more DIY hardscape tutorials: @Western Interlock
Visit our website for more products and inspiration: westerninterlock.com
Learn four effective ways to remove and replace concrete paving stones. We’ll cover techniques for handling different types of joint material, plus tools you can use, from simple screwdrivers to professional equipment. Here’s a breakdown of each method:
Determine Joint Material: Identifying whether you have polymeric sand or regular sand in the joints will affect the method. For polymeric sand, use xylene, SureStrip, or boiling water to loosen it. For regular sand, water alone often does the trick.
Using Screwdrivers: If you have flathead screwdrivers, they’re perfect for prying up pavers. Insert from opposing sides, carefully wiggle the paver, and tap the surrounding area with a mallet to release it.
Using Putty Knives: Thin, stiff putty knives are a great alternative to screwdrivers, especially for narrow joints. Insert from opposite sides, apply pressure, and tap surrounding pavers with a mallet for an easier lift.
Paver Extractor Tool: Specialized paver extractor tools make removal smoother by gripping the paver while allowing wiggle room. Adjust it to fit, apply pressure, and use a mallet to help the paver release.
Use a Vacuum Lift: Great for lifting pavers without bending over. With different sized pads, you can choose the the right fit for all sizes of pavers. Now you can lift even large pavers, all while standing!
These methods will make paver removal easy for any project. Be sure to explore our channel and website for more hardscape tips and tutorials!
… … … … …
0:00 Intro
0:22 Screw Drivers
1:02 Putty Knives
1:45 Extractor
2:20 Vacuum Lift
3:27 Outro
… … … … …
At Western Interlock, we are dedicated to inspiring and empowering DIY enthusiasts. Our paving stones and retaining wall blocks, combined with our comprehensive guides, tutorials, and tips, help you create stunning outdoor spaces. Whether you're working on patios, driveways, garden walls, or walkways, we provide the materials and knowledge to help you achieve professional-quality results on your own.
Subscribe to our channel for more DIY hardscape tutorials: @Western Interlock
Visit our website for more products and inspiration: westerninterlock.com
