Learn about Concrete Pavers

First, we mark the area for existing utilities. Next, our crews remove your existing hardscaping, including plants or other materials, being careful not to damage any existing utility lines, irrigation systems, or plants. We typically excavate 7” from the final grade for patios and 10” for driveways, which gives us adequate room for base rock, bedding sand, and pavers.

To ensure proper surface drainage and elevations, we set our grades and install any necessary drainpipes and downspouts. We then backfill and compact the trenching and install a layer of geotextile fabric which prevents soil migration and settling.

Now, we’re ready to install the Class II base over the entire area, which creates a dense foundation to install the pavers. Using a plate compactor, we compact the class II base to an ideal density of 98%. 

We next apply a 1” layer of sharp-angled bedding sand. We carefully screed the area in sections to give the pavers a smooth and even surface to rest on. This product assists with the interlocking function of the pavers by creating a tight bond as the pavers are compacted.

The fun begins as we transform the bare surface into your dream design. Our skilled craftsmen individually lay the paver stones to create your desired pattern. Using a hand or table-mounted saw, we use a diamond blade for all paver cuts. A concrete bond beam is laid around the edges to prevent movement of the inner stones. The border stones are then wet set on top of the bond beam to secure the installation.

The pavers are compacted into 1” of bedding sand to begin interlocking. Regular or polymeric sand is swept into paver area joints, enhancing interlocking. Polymeric sand, which acts like a flexible grout, is highly recommended to prevent weed growth and insect infiltration. The pavers receive final compaction with a plate compactor to ensure the sand fills the joints. If using Polymeric sand, we apply water to activate the hardening process.

Finally, we clean the job site and pavers, haul off extra materials and return your furniture and personal items. Optionally, some customers apply a surface sealer to their new pavers, which can achieve a wet look or act as an additional defense against staining.