Leave paver driveway installation to a pro for a durable driveway your neighbors envy
Nothing beats the look of paver stones arranged in a neat (or complex) pattern. Paver driveways generally cost more than other types, but they can really boost your home’s curb appeal.
While various pros can handle the job, a professional paver installer or design company will likely have the most experience installing this type of driveway. The key is to find a reputable contractor who can help you choose the right type of paver stone and do the best work.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional for Paver Driveway Installation
You’ll want to hire a paver installer or paver design company to complete this type of project. Many landscape design, hardscaping, and outdoor living companies install paver driveways. Hiring someone with experience installing such driveways ensures your space is laid neatly and tightly to avoid cracking or shifting. This process is labor-intensive, so you’ll pay more than you would for an asphalt driveway. But when installed properly, your slab can last 20 to 30 years.
A professional can also advise you on how to choose the best pavers for your driveway. Brick, natural stone, or concrete all have their advantages, but your choice will ultimately depend on your home's aesthetic and your budget.
Can I DIY a Paver Driveway?
Technically, yes, you can install a paver driveway yourself with the right equipment. However, anytime you're working with heavy equipment like excavators, there's a risk.
Installing a paver driveway generally involves digging up the old driveway, laying a crushed stone foundation, installing edging, putting the paver stones in place, filling the gaps, and tamping it down.
Before laying even one first paver, take measurements of the area and determine the materials you need to do the job right. Also, the law requires you to call 8-1-1 first to ensure you won’t hit any underground lines when digging.
Should I Hire a Paver Installer for This Project?
Installing a paver driveway is a big job involving heavy equipment, precise measurements, and hard labor. If the three reasons below resonate, consider hiring a paving contractor near you.
You probably don’t have the equipment. At a minimum, you will need professional equipment like an excavator, a plate compactor, and a wet saw to cut and shape pavers. If you don’t already have this equipment lying around, and it can be expensive to rent.
You want the job done right. The whole point of putting in a paver driveway is to have a sleek, professional look. A sloppy install almost guarantees professional fixes and adjustments later.
You don’t want to waste your free time. Installing a paver driveway requires hours of back-breaking work, even with the right equipment. Why not spend that time doing things you enjoy and let a professional take care of it for you?
If you love home projects like this, possess the necessary equipment (or can acquire them easily), and have experience doing this sort of thing, then, by all means, dive right in. If this task feels a little overwhelming, a professional can help ease the burden.
How Does a Paver Installer Build a Paver Driveway?
Paver installation is a long and laborious process, but in general, here’s how it will go.
Excavate the Area
After running an underground utilities check and testing the soil, the contractor will tear up the old driveway (if there is one) using an excavator, digging at least a foot deep.
Lay a Foundation
Next, the contractor will lay a foundation of crushed stone into the excavated area. They will use a plate compactor to compact this layer, then add a second layer to give your hardscape stability, strength, and permeable power.
Position Edging
The contractor will install edging around the excavated area to hold the paver stones in place, kind of like an outline. They may use concrete or plastic for the edging.
Place the Pavers
When it comes time to lay the stones, the pro will place full-size pieces first and then cut smaller pieces to fill in the gaps. The result should be tight and even.
Fill and Tamp
Finally, the contractors will fill the gaps with crushed stone or sand. Then, after sweeping off the excess stone with a broom, they will use the plate compactor again to tamp down the paver stones.
