How to lift pavers without damaging them

One of the most difficult things about a paved surface is lifting the pavers out of the surface without damaging them. In many cases it is impossible, and various techniques such as using a screwdriver, prybar, hammer etc end up either breaking the edges or damaging the paver. In the end it is often easier to break up a paver and pull out the pieces.

Here is an idea for non-destructive lifting method using old spring steel plaster spatulas or an old backsaw. The lifting plates are easy to make and cost pretty well nothing.

I show how to make the plates and demonstrate by lifting some of the pavers around the yard - in one spot the cars are usually parked and the pavers haven't been disturbed for about 30 years.

Although not shown in the video pouring water around the edges, or using a high pressure cleaner, makes removal easier with stubborn bricks. See this at    • Lifting pavers using  high pressure water ...  
Hit around the edges with a rubber mallet to loosen it a bit.

As far as dimensions goes spatulas are all different sizes, but go about 2 cm from the end and 1/3 way in from the side for each hole. Drill, preferably slowly, with a carbide bit and a drop of oil, or better still a cobalt bit (carbide bits are best for impact drilling, or hard cast metal and non-ferrous metals but they absorb heat well). Ordinary bits will get blunt and burn, but they do work (and they are cheap). Don't bend the spatula metal too much or the steel cracks.

It took me 3 minutes and cost about $1 to make one lifter.