Can paver driveways be installed in Fredericton climate?

Fredericton experiences a humid continental climate with warm, wet summers and cold, snowy winters. As the capital city of New Brunswick, Fredericton sees an average annual snowfall of 236.9 cm and over 100 rainfall days each year. With these varied weather conditions, it’s important to choose durable driveway materials that can withstand the elements and freeze-thaw cycles.

As experienced hardscape contractors serving Fredericton, we are confident that paver driveways can be successfully installed here. In this article, we will explore how paver driveways are a suitable option for Fredericton’s climate. We will review the city typical seasonal weather patterns and discuss the attributes of paver driveways. By examining the installation benefits and potential challenges, our goal is to help homeowners understand how pavers can deliver a durable, long-lasting driveway solution based on our proven experience successfully completing these projects locally. Homeowners choosing pavers can be assured of a driveway that will withstand our region’s varied conditions for long time.

Fredericton Climate Intro

Fredericton experiences four very distinct seasons throughout the year. The winters are cold with average January temperatures below freezing at -7.6°C. Significant snowfall is common from December to March, with over 75% of the annual snow accumulating during these months. The ground freezes, and freeze-thaw cycles cause potholes on exposed road surfaces.

Summers are warm and humid with average July temperatures of 20.7°C. Over 30% of Fredericton’s annual rainfall of 1,136 mm occurs during this season. Heavy summer downpours can flood low-lying areas if drainage is inadequate.

Spring and fall bring variable weather conditions as temperatures transition between seasons. Rapid melting of accumulated snow runoff during spring sometimes causes localized flooding.

What are paver driveways?

A driveway is constructed using interlocking concrete pavers. These are small rectangular or square concrete blocks or stones that are dry-laid (without mortar) and interlock to provide a durable, permeable surface.

Common types of pavers used in driveways include concrete, clay, and natural stone pavers like granite. They are an aesthetic alternative to asphalt or plain concrete. Properly installed and maintained paver driveways can last 50 years or longer.

Benefits of paver driveways in Fredericton

Durability and strength under freeze-thaw conditions

One major advantage of paver driveways is their superior durability against freeze-thaw cycles compared to other surfaces like asphalt or bare concrete. Being an interlocking system, the individual pavers are able to expand and contract independently as temperatures change without causing cracks to form. This movement during winter thaws protects the structural integrity of the base layer underneath. Their durability means a paver driveway should outlast other options by decades in Fredericton’s climate.

Permeability and water drainage

Not only do pavers allow water to permeate rather than pool on the surface, but they provide effective drainage even during periods of high water volume. The open spaces between each paver function like miniature streams to channel rainwater, spring meltwater, and summertime downpours safely into surrounding soils or the existing drainage system. This permeability prevents hazardous flooding and icing conditions that can occur with non-porous asphalt when heavy precipitation exceeds the runoff capacity. With Fredericton’s annual rainfall and substantial snowpack, the drainage quality of a paver driveway is valuable.

Resistance to cracking and damage

The modular structure of a paver driveway creates a resilient, flexible surface that is highly resistant to damage from winter weather hazards. Each individual unit can better withstand impacts from snow plow blades and occasional scrapes compared to a monolithic asphalt surface. Should any single paver become cracked or degraded from years of exposure to de-icing chemicals, only that minimal section needs replacement versus the cost to resurface an entire cracked asphalt area.

Flexibility in design and repair

Beyond withstanding weathering, paver driveways offer flexibility in both their original design and future repairs. Property owners have many aesthetic paver options and laying patterns to create a uniquely customized driveway. Later, adaptability for repairs is valued – whether it’s altering the layout, replacing a few units that settle over time, or addressing isolated damage.

Few challenges

Upfront costs of installation are higher than asphalt but savings accrue over the longer lifespan.
Quality materials and installation are needed for longevity.
Weeds can grow in joints if not sealed properly, requiring periodic removal. Some settling may occur that needs leveling.
Snow removal requires more care than smooth surfaces. Overly aggressive plowing can damage edges.
De-icing salts may stain some paver types. Gentle scraping works best.

Preparing for installation

Have the site graded, compacted, and a durable gravel base laid professionally before installation.
Concrete pavers are the best option for withstanding winter weather. Avoid softer materials like certain stone types.
Consider edge restraints for structural integrity. Installation by top-rated hardscape contractors is important for a long-lasting job.
DIY can save costs but professional paver installation is worth it for complex projects or harsh climates like Fredericton to ensure it’s done correctly.
Allow experienced contractors to assess the site and make recommendations on preparation and suitable products.

Maintenance tips for paver driveways in Fredericton

Sweep pavers regularly and power-wash to remove debris which can create stains or accelerate degradation.
Re-apply joint sand yearly and seal the pavers every 2-3 years with a breathable sealer to protect against de-icing chemicals and weathering.
For snow and ice, use salt sparingly and scrape with a plastic shovel before compacting.
Check for weeds in joints and cracks yearly. Re-level any settled areas by loosening pavers and adding crushed stone as needed.
Address cracks or damaged pavers promptly to prevent moisture penetration into the base later.

Are you looking for expert paver installation services in Fredericton?

As one of the most experienced paver installation contractors in Fredericton, Atlantic Brick and Stone has been helping residential and commercial clients to enhance their properties with durable, attractive pavers for over 15 years.

Whether you’re interested in a new paver driveway, walkway, or patio, Atlantic Brick and Stone has the expertise to complete your project to the highest standards. As an industry leader, we offer a full suite of hardscaping services including paver installation for driveways, patios, and walkways.

Our team’s extensive training and specialized equipment ensure your project will be professionally designed, precisely laid, and last for decades. Contact us to discuss how we can help bring your hardscaping vision to reality.

To Close

Paver driveways can be suitable for Fredericton’s climate when the right materials, base, and installation techniques are used.
While upgrades in costs and maintenance are involved, the benefits of permeability, durability against freeze-thaw cycles and plows, flexibility for repairs, and curb appeal make them a wise long-term investment.
With proper preparation and care, homeowners can enjoy low-maintenance paver driveways for decades in the Fredericton area.