8 Common Paver Installation Mistake You Should Avoid

Not planning the project thoroughly

The most important step is taking time to thoroughly plan your paver project before breaking ground. Consider the function and size of the area, as well as your budget. Make a detailed plan showing the layout, garden edging or other features. You’ll also need to check with your local authorities for any permitting requirements.

Poor planning can result in issues like running out of materials or realizing the project is too big to complete within your timeframe. You don’t want to be halfway done and unable to finish. A comprehensive plan will help your project stay on schedule and on budget.

Ignoring soil and subgrade preparation

Proper preparation of the soil and subgrade (the layer of material below the surface) is critical for your pavers to have a stable base. The soil needs to be well-draining and compacted to provide stability without settling over time.

For a paver patio project, you may need to excavate several inches of existing soil and replace it with fresh compactible material to create an even surface. Ignoring this step can lead to problems like weeds growing through joints or pavers becoming uneven as the soil shifts below. Take time to prepare the subgrade properly before installing anything above ground.

Skimping on base materials

Quality base materials like compacted gravel are essential to distribute the weight of the pavers and protect against gradual settling. Pea gravel or decorative stone is not suitable – these will compress easily. Eg. for driveways, you’ll need a very substantial 6-8 inches of crushed stone (minimum 1-1/2 inches thick) and drainage.

Using subpar materials can cause your pavers to crack or sink within a few years. An insufficient base won’t provide even support to your pavers. Make sure to use proper base materials designed for the intended use.

Inadequate compaction

Thoroughly compacting the gravel or crushed stone base is key to preventing uneven settling later on. For small areas, you can rent a gas-powered plate compactor or use a hand tamper. Larger or professional projects may require a large walk-behind roller.

If the base layer isn’t compressed firmly, it can compress further as the pavers are laid. This leads to cracks or gaps appearing between pavers down the road. Take time to compact the base properly.

Incorrect paver laying

When installing pavers, use string lines as a guide and lay them in a simple repeating pattern or brick-style running bond. Leave consistent 3/16-inch gaps between pavers for sand to fill. Slight errors in spacing, alignment or curving layouts can ruin the appearance.

Pavers won’t stay straight or square if not installed accurately from the start. Take care to lay each paver perfectly flush with the guidelines.

Forgetting expansion joints

Just like concrete sidewalks, pavers need room to expand slightly with temperature fluctuations. Leave a 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide expansion joint around the perimeter and between the patio and any fixed surfaces. Failure to do so can cause cracking or pavers to lift out of place.

Properly placed expansion joints prevent stress on the pavers from movement.

Neglecting drainage considerations

Water that puddles or pools on a paved surface can undermine the soil base over time. Make sure to slope your paver area at least 1/4 inch per running foot away from structures. You can also add a perimeter drain system or use gravel along edges.

Without the right drainage, standing water can penetrate and damage both pavers and anything below like a foundation. Careful drainage planning is necessary.

Rushing the finishing touches

When laying pavers, avoid the urge to rush the finishing details. After pavers are laid, sweep jointing sand over the surface and work it into joints with a rubber grout float. This helps eliminate gaps. Then mist the surface with water and allow curing before sealing.

Sealing locks in the jointing sand and protects against stains. It’s worth taking a day or more after installation to complete this important step properly.

Avoid common install mistakes with Pro help

If any part of the paver installation process seems daunting, consider hiring a professional contractor familiar with local soil and climate conditions. Look at photos of their previous work and ask for references. An experienced contractor understands all the technical requirements to deliver results that will last.

Atlantic Brick and Stone is a highly reputable hardscape contractor based in Fredericton, New Brunswick. With 15+ years in the industry, we are experts in paver installation projects of all types and sizes. We offer the best paver installation services in Fredericton, along with a comprehensive warranty.

As the top rated hardscape contractor in the region, we have numerous 5-star reviews and a portfolio of impressive past jobs you can check out. Our experienced installation crews are fully equipped and trained to complete your project efficiently. Contact us for a free estimate—you can have confidence we will exceed your expectations through our quality workmanship.

Summary

Take time for thorough planning – Make sure to consider the size, layout and intended use of the area. Plan properly to avoid issues like running out of materials.

Prepare the site with care – This means excavating properly, installing draining and compacting the subgrade and base layers firmly to provide stability and prevent settling.

Use the right materials – For the base layers, this means dense gravel or crushed stone rather than pea gravel or decorative rock. Make sure to use materials appropriate for the expected traffic loads.

Focus on effective compaction – Thoroughly compact all soil and aggregate layers, especially important for stabilizing the base. Compaction prevents issues like cracks forming over time.

Hire a professional contractor for paver installations. Avoid taking on a DIY paver installation unless you have extensive experience, as proper techniques are critical to longevity and you want the job done right.

FAQ about paver installation

Should a paver walkway be sloped?

Yes – sloping the walkways surface at a minimum of 1/4 inch per running foot prevents water from pooling on the surface. This protects your paver installation from damage as well as any nearby foundations.

Do pavers settle after installation?

Some minor settling can occur naturally in the first year as everything settles into place. However, if the base was installed correctly with proper compaction, major settling should not happen. Settling indicates an issue with preparation techniques.

How deep do you need to dig for paving?

There is no single answer, as depth depends on the specific paver product, thickness and expected traffic loads. As a general guideline, patio paver excavation depths usually range from 6-8 inches while driveways may require 10-12 inches or more for heavier vehicle traffic.