Whether you intend to do it yourself or hire a professional to do it for you, there are some key steps you should follow when preparing for successful paver installation. With correct installation, you’ll have a nice foundation that allows for water permeation without damaging the base. This is true no matter your paver project, whether you intend to make a new driveway or transform your backyard. Proper preparation ensures long-term durability, minimizes maintenance and enhances the overall appearance of your hardscape. It also helps prevent costly repairs or uneven surfaces down the road, enhancing the longevity of your new hardscape.

So here are a few key tips recommended by our staff and expert groups like Landscape Management to help you prepare for paver installation:

Tip #1: Make Sure You Have Approval for Where You Want to Place Your Paving Stones.

Even if it's a property your family has owned for a long time, there are certain outdoor areas you have to be careful of when making alterations to your property. This is because pipes, wires and other buried objects that maintain your house and neighborhood may be buried beneath. Furthermore, paving is a significant project that may violate your homeowner agreement, HOA, or other restrictions placed upon your property. When preparing for successful paver installation, it’s important to make sure you have all the right approvals before you get started.

Note: You may also need permits from your local municipality to ensure full compliance with safety codes and zoning laws.

Before you do anything else, make sure you contact all associated parties and get approval for your paving project. Then, be sure to take some tape, removable spray paint, or some other marker and carefully mark off the paving project area. Double-check boundaries and utility lines for added safety and accuracy. Share pictures or show off this project area to the proper authorities, and once you have their approval you know you can get started.

Tip #2: Take Your Time as You Square, Excavate and Prepare for Paving.

While you may be tempted to start digging right away, be sure to take your time as you prepare for excavation. Place some stakes at your corners and tie strings between them so you can box off your digging area and avoid going past your markers. Set your grade to ensure that your surface drainage will flow in the direction you want it. Determine the proper depth for your paving project, and gather the tools you need to dig that deep. Always double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy and proper alignment. The wrong measurements can affect both the appearance and integrity of the final surface.

You’ll also want to start gathering the actual paving stones you need for your project. There are many different types of paving stones, with the same stones even creating different patterns depending on how you lay them. Think ahead about traffic flow, how the space will be used, and whether your chosen layout fits the overall function and style of your outdoor area. This is the perfect time to start planning these details, as your desired design will determine how and where you need to dig.

Tip #3: Choose Wisely

You’ll also want to carefully consider the paving stones you intend to lay down. Different paving stones have varying attributes, especially if you consider our exclusive long lasting paver-shield™ products. Even the same paving stones can look different depending on the pattern you chose to lay them down in.

Tip #4: Remove All Plants, Rocks and Other Debris from The Paving Area.

Before you can set anything, including sheets, gravel, or sand, you need to actually dig out the paving area. Assuming you’ve gathered the gloves, shovels and other tools you’ll need for the job in the last step, carefully dig down to the desired depth.

It is vital you clear out everything you can as you dig. This includes plants, rocks and anything else you may encounter. Failing to properly remove plants can lead to weeds growing through your paving stones, while rocks will likely lead to an uneven surface. Tree roots, old concrete pieces or compacted soil should also be removed to avoid shifting or cracking. Don’t forget to tamp down the soil to create a stable base. This step is crucial for long-term durability. The more even and empty your foundation is, the easier it will be to lay your desired paving stones later on.

Tip #5: Select the Right Materials for the Job

Choosing the right paving stones is critical for long-term success. Consider using Nicolock’s exclusive paver-shield™ stones for enhanced durability, color longevity and surface protection. Whether you’re planning a patio, walkway, or driveway, different materials offer different performance and style benefits.

This is also the time to consider drainage solutions, edge restraints and base materials. Don’t forget to account for compacted gravel and bedding sand. These components are essential for a level surface and long-lasting finish.

Need Help Paving? Contact Nicolock.

Nicolock is a proud distributor of paving stones and other outdoor living products. Contact us today or check out our FAQ if you need help with your next paving project. You can also visit our blog post on this topic to learn more about how to prepare for paver installation.