Pavers are a durable and attractive way to add stable walking surfaces to your property. They provide structure to outdoor living areas in the form of patios, while driveways dramatically boost curb appeal, and walkways help lead guests throughout your property.
The Paver Installation Process
1. Removal of the soil underneath the future pavers structure location
2. Compacting the sub-base (most soil types) and
3. Hauling in gravel and compacting at three-inch increments until the base is set to the ideal depth for the structure while setting up the proper slope to ensure water runs off the pavers
4. Installing approximately one inch of screeding sand
5. Laying the pavers in the desired pattern along with a solider course
6. Making paver cuts to fit where the main pattern meets edges, solider course, etc.
7. Installing snap edging to lock the pavers into place
8. Compacting the pavers one final time
9. Applying polymeric sand (also referred to as joint sand) over-top the paver surface, then sweeping it into the joints
10. Operating a leaf blower to lightly remove the joint sand from the surface of the pavers
11. Lightly misting water onto the entire space, then waiting for the pavers to dry and applying one more application of water
Following the final water application, the joint sand will require 24-48 hours to fully cure (sometimes longer depending on weather conditions), and then your new space is ready for use!
Paver Maintenance
With professional installation, concrete pavers can last for generations. However, some light maintenance work is recommended to ensure your patio, walkway or driveway stays looking new for years to come:
- Remove debris such as leaves, sticks, and grass clipping otherwise as they decompose, unsightly marks will be left on the pavers
- After the pavers and sand have cured for at least a year, use a sealant to protect the pavers from the elements.
- Wash your pavers to remove efflorescence, which are salts that rise to the surface of concrete products
For all things pavers, landscaping, design and outdoor living in southern Minnesota, contact the expert team at Peters’ Patio & Landscape for a quote on your next project.
