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Paver Installations
Interlocking concrete pavers provide a durable and beautiful alternative to concrete
or asphalt for patios, walkways, driveways, fountains...even streets. Over 200
million square feet of pavers have been installed in North America, and the popularity
of these materials is rising steadily. Numerous options exist for size, shape,
color and texture.
When installed correctly, the surface is flexible, withstanding
loads from traffic, wear and weather. The joints between each
paver are filled with sand; this enables loads to be transferred
to adjacent units in a pattern similar to asphalt. The joints
eliminate the cracking common to concrete surfaces.
If problems underground require excavation, the pavers are
simply removed and later replaced; no materials are wasted. Most
paver installations allow air and moisture to penetrate, allowing
for the health of plant roots. Pavers stand up well to snow removal
processes and resist deicing salts better than conventional asphalt
or concrete pavement.
Installation Basics
Of utmost importance in paver installation (and also in many
other hardscape installations) is proper treatment of the underlying
soil and imported base. Basically, four to twelve inches of soil
is first removed from the area; the subsoil is compacted (using
a vibrating plate compactor) and then several inches of aggregate
(crushed rock) is added and compacted thoroughly. Additional
aggregate is added and compacted until the required level is
met. As noted, the thickness of the base will vary depending
on native soil type and climate.
After installation of the aggregate, a bed of sand is installed
and screeded level; pavers are installed in the chosen pattern
and sand is swept into the joints. Now the plate compactor is
used over the surface and additional sand is brushed in; this
process is repeated until the joints are completely filled (see
photo below). After cleaning, a sealer can be applied to the
surface. An alternative to the concrete curb shown here is one
of several edging products made of high strength PVC; these can
be formed to curves as well as straight runs. |
