We Build Beautiful Paver Patios

Preparing The Area For Your New Paver Patio Installation

Preparation is a huge (arguably the most important) part in building a great looking, long lasting paver landscaping feature.  If the groundwork isn't completed properly before installing the pavers you're going to be unhappy with the results and even more unhappy months or years down the road.

At Outdoor Living Experts we take the time to ensure our paver patio installations are completed to the manufacturers specifications.  This ensures your new paver landscaping looks great, lasts a long time, and the pavers can qualify for the manufacturers warranty.

How Do We Prepare Your Ground For Pavers?

Installing paver patios, driveways, and walkways isn't rocket science but there are some very specific steps and processes that separate the good installations from the poor installations.

Installing Unilock pavers properly, is a detailed process that ensures a long-lasting and durable outdoor space. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you understand the steps involved:

1. Planning and Design:

Before any physical work begins, we sit down with you to understand your vision and preferences. We discuss different Unilock paver options, patterns, and colors, ensuring the final design aligns with your aesthetic and functional needs.

2. Site Preparation:

The designated area is then cleared of any existing grass, plants, or debris. We ensure the ground is level and compact the soil to create a stable base. Any necessary grading is done at this stage to ensure proper drainage away from your home.

3. Base Material:

We use a minimum of 4 inches of 57 stone (¾” chip stone) that allows water to pass through the base layer.  This layer is meticulously leveled and compacted to prevent any future settling or shifting of the pavers.

4. Edge Restraints:

To maintain the integrity of the paver installation, edge restraints are placed around the perimeter.  We use fiber reinforced concrete for the edge that is recommended to use on the 57 stone, unlike plastic edge that wants to pull up.  These restraints are needed to prevent the pavers from shifting over time, ensuring the longevity of your patio or walkway.

5.  Bedding Layer:

We use #8 stone (⅜” chip stone) to make sure the pavers do not retain water and cause efflorescence. This also helps ensure the polymeric jointing sand hardens, because if the bedding layer doesn't dry out than the jointing sand will not harden properly.

6. Laying the Pavers:

The Unilock pavers are carefully laid according to the predetermined pattern. Each paver is placed tightly against the others to ensure stability and minimize the chances of weeds growing between them.

7. Cutting and Fitting:

In areas where full pavers won't fit, they are meticulously cut and shaped to ensure a snug and secure fit, maintaining the integrity of the design.

8. Compacting and Sanding:

Once all the pavers are in place, the entire area is compacted using a plate compactor. This helps to secure the pavers in the bedding layer and ensures they are level.  For our patio projects, we prefer using Easy Joint resin sand, renowned for its strength and resilience. However, while it's excellent for patios, we've found that the vibrations and movement caused by vehicles on driveways can dislodge this type of sand. This is why we reserve Easy Joint for patios, where its durability can be fully utilized without the stress of vehicular traffic.

When it comes to creating the perfect driveway, we prioritize both durability and quality. That's why we exclusively use Techniseal NextGel Polymeric Sand for our driveway installations. This choice is driven by our commitment to long-term performance and maintenance ease. Techniseal NextGel is specifically designed to withstand the heavy load and constant movement of vehicles. It stays firmly in place, ensuring that your driveway remains stable and looks great over time.

By choosing the right materials for each specific application, we ensure that your outdoor spaces are not only beautifully crafted but also built to last, tailored to the unique demands of each area of your property.

9. Final Inspection and Cleaning:

The entire area is inspected to ensure every paver is securely in place and the pattern is flawless. Any necessary adjustments are made at this stage. The area is then cleaned, removing any excess sand or debris.

10. Sealing (Optional):

Some homeowners opt to have their pavers sealed to enhance their color and provide additional protection against the elements. This is an optional step but can help to extend the life and beauty of your pavers.

By choosing Unilock pavers and a certified installer like us, you're ensuring a meticulous installation process that results in a stunning, durable outdoor space. The attention to detail at every step guarantees a flawless finish, transforming your outdoor area into a lasting investment.

As you can see, by spending the extra time on site preparation, you're getting a superior installation that will last and look good for many years to come.