Mortar vs. un-motared paver patio

What are the advantages/disadvantages of both and also where could I find step-by-step instructions for both?

 

The most common paver (in terms of square footage) is an interlocking concrete paver. It is NEVER laid using mortar. It is the surfacing for what is called a flexible paving system as opposed to a rigid (poured concrete) pavement. If mortar is used, the resulting pavement will be weaker and not perform as well. The strength depends on the strength of the compacted soil under it and the paver thickness. Typical applications range from sidewalks, patios, driveways, streets to airport taxiways and loading/unloading areas for heavy duty ocean-going ship unloading equipment. A compacted soil base is used. This is the strongest and most economical use of pavers. Interlocking pavers range from 60 mm to 100 mm (2 3/8" to 3 7/8") and are available in many shapes and colors that may be laid in different patterns. Do not confuse pavers with "stepping stones" that are larger (over 10") and do not have universal strength requirements.

Brick pavers are normally laid using mortar/grout and are laid on a concrete slab. The thickness of the slab will be dictated by loads to be carried. Thick clay pavers can be used for light loads when used on a compacted soil base. Thinner pavers cannot be used as interlocking pavers beause they do not have enough thickness to develop a strong surface over a compacted soil base.

Most concrete paver suppliers have good, detailed instructions. Major paver suppliers Pavestone, Oldcastle/Belgard, etc. have good sites that should have instructions or dealers listed that have instructions.

Dick