Can paver driveways be used in commercial or high-traffic areas

What are paver driveways

When people say “pavers,” they are typically referring to concrete pavers used for driveways and walkways. These come in various materials and shapes, but are most commonly rectangular or square slabs that are dry-laid atop a base. Common paver materials include concrete, natural stone, porcelain, and heavier clay products.

All types of pavers are designed to be driven on when properly installed atop a bed of compacted gravel and/or sand. Their design distributes weight across a broad surface area when laid together, making them capable of handling significant vehicular loads when built to commercial thickness standards (Normally 3 inches). Proper paver installation is important to withstand traffic loads no matter the material.

Benefits of paver driveways for commercial spaces

There are several advantages that make pavers appealing choices for commercial areas’ driveways compared to other options:

• Aesthetic flexibility and customization options – Pavers come in a huge range of colors, textures, and styles. This allows you to achieve unique designs that enhance your business’s curb appeal.
• Durability and longevity of high-quality pavers – When properly installed and maintained, pavers can stand up to wear and tear for 20-30 years or more.
• Ease of repair and maintenance – It’s simple to remove individual pavers and replace them without needing to redo the entire surface like with cement or asphalt.
• Permeability and storm water management – Unlike impermeable surfaces, porous paver systems allow rainwater to drain through joints rather than running off your property.

Assessing the suitability for high-traffic areas

There are a few factors to consider when determining if pavers can withstand the demands of high-traffic commercial use:

• Traffic load – Very heavy industrial traffic may require thicker pavers, sturdier materials like concrete or a concrete paver/asphalt hybrid. Lighter commercial/retail traffic is well-suited for normal pavers.
• Proper installation – An adequately thick and sturdy bedding and base layer is key. This properly distributes weight to avoid settling or movement over time.
• Drainage and runoff – Ensure porous pavers are pitched properly with drainage and connected to storm water collection systems for any high-volume traffic areas.
• Maintenance requirements – While repairable, pavers may develop weeds or debris stuck in joints with significant foot or vehicle traffic over time in some climates.

When installed correctly using the right paver thickness and materials for the job, many commercial properties have found pavers to be a durable alternative to asphalt or poured concrete for driveways, parking lots, and walkways. Their flexibility and appearance adds real estate value compared to monotonous blacktop.

Challenges and Considerations

There are a few potential challenges to consider with pavers for commercial use:

• While pavers last longer, materials and skilled labor for proper installation are more expensive upfront than asphalt or concrete.
• Runoff control through joints or an underlying chamber system requires careful grading and additional perforated drain pipes for very large parking lots.
• Commercial spaces with extremely heavy trucks or machinery may be better suited to thicker poured concrete slabs that can handle more weight per square inch.
• Extended freezing and thawing or excessive moisture can cause pavers to shift slightly over decades in some New Brunswick regions.

With the right planning and specifications from an experienced paver installer, many commercial challenges can be overcome. And long-term cost savings through reduced maintenance typically outweigh higher initial outlay.

Best practices for installation and maintenance

To ensure pavers withstand commercial use, focus on these installation and care best practices:

Choosing pavers

• Use thicker 80mm pavers for driveways and 60mm for walkways in commercial areas.
• Concrete pavers are best for withstanding heavy loads, with porcelain or stone for lighter traffic.

Installing the base

• Excavate at least 6” below grade for a sturdy 4-6” bed of compacted gravel.
• Add a 2” sand or limestone layer and screed flat for level pavers.

Laying pavers

• Start in a corner and work outward in running bond or herringbone patterns.
• Compact pavers with a plate compactor and fill joints.

Sealing and maintenance

• Seal new pavers and reseal every 3-5 years with a joint sand stabilizer.
• Sweep regularly and power-wash debris from joints annually.
• Inspect for weeds, moss, and reset any loose pavers promptly.

With the right paver type and installation, commercial properties have found these surfaces to offer lower long-term maintenance costs than traditional alternatives. Proper care ensures they’ll stand the test of time.

Expert driveway pavers installation services in Fredericton, NB

For commercial property owners in Fredericton looking to install new pavers, working with a local expert is highly recommended. One top-rated hardscaping company to consider is Atlantic Brick and Stone. As Fredericton’s best hardscape contractor, we have decades of experience installing pavers and other masonry for both residential and commercial masonry.

Atlantic Brick and Stone is fully licensed and insured, and we employ only highly skilled craftsmen. We are able to complete both small residential projects and large commercial installations. Our work comes with a multi-year warranty, and reviews consistently praise our quality workmanship, timely completions, and customer service. For durable yet attractive paver driveways capable of handling high traffic needs, Atlantic Brick and Stone should be the first call for commercial property owners in Fredericton.

Summary

• Paver driveways can absolutely be suitable for commercial spaces and high-traffic areas when the right considerations are made:
• Use thick pavers specified for withstanding heavy vehicle loads.
• Invest in a robust, well-compacted gravel base and drainage system.
• Hire experienced installers to lay pavers properly from the start.
• Commit to routine seasonal maintenance like sealing and cleaning.

When planned and cared for accordingly, pavers provide commercial properties with an attractive, durable, and versatile paved surface option. Their advantages of customization, ease of repairs, and permeable stormwater management make them a great choice.

FAQ about paver driveways for commercial spaces

How much weight can pavers support?

When properly installed, concrete pavers can support over 8,000 pounds per square inch of surface area.

How long do paver driveways last?

With routine maintenance, interlocking concrete pavers are designed to last 20-30 years or longer in Fredericton before requiring repairs or replacement.

How thick do pavers need to be for a driveway?

For commercial applications expecting frequent or heavy vehicle traffic, choose pavers at least 60mm or 80mm thick for driveways and walkways respectively. Standard residential pavers are often only 40-50mm thick.