Paver Installation Stirling, NJ
Best Paving Service – New Patios, Driveways, Walkways & Porches
Professional Paver Installation
Paver installation using best paving materials can be a wonderful addition to your home. It can increase the value of your property, create a new seating area, and as well as complement your landscaping. If done correctly, a new paver installation will last a lifetime. Whether you are installing a paver patio, walkway or driveway by yourself or hiring a professional, there are a few things you need to know before getting started. Use this tutorial as a guide to correctly install your pavers or key points to keep in mind when seeking a professional installer.
When installing pavers you want to get it right the first time, otherwise you'll end up paying thousands in repairs after a few years.
How to Install Pavers
Materials & Tools – First off, you want to make sure you or your contractor is using the right materials. There are so many ways to cut corners when installing pavers especially to the untrained eye. If you're doing the installation yourself it's better to spend a couple extra bucks now so you don't have to redo your work down the road.
Materials Needed
- Pavers – approximately $3.00 + tax per square foot
- ¾ Road Stone – $20.00 per ton
- Concrete Sand – $35 per ton
- Edging Restraint – $12.00 per 10 foot length
- Polymeric Sand – $20.00 per bag
Tools Needed
- Shovel or Excavator
- Plate Compactor
- Laser Level
- Cutoff Saw with a Water Attachment
- Garden Hose
- Spray Paint for Marking
Excavation Depth Guide
- Walkways – 6 to 8 inches
- Patios – 8 to 10 inches
- Driveways – 10 to 12 inches
- Clay soil? Add an additional 2 inches for any type of installation
Steps to Laying Pavers
Outlining
The first step is to outline where you want to install your new paver patio, walkway or driveway. Using spray paint or any other marking material, measure and outline the area where you're installing the pavers. Excavate an additional foot on each side of the installation to provide a wide and sturdy base.
Excavation
You want to make sure you dig deep enough to lay a solid foundation. Without creating the proper foundation your pavers will shift, raise or sink within a few seasons. Depth will always depend on the type of installation you are doing.
Tip: If you are hiring a contractor be sure to ask them how much they excavate. Sometimes, contractors will try to save money by only digging an inch or two.
Laying ¾" Road Stone
We use ¾ inch road stone because of its durability. After the road stone is laid use a plate compactor to level the foundation and make sure it is packed tightly. We recommend only compacting up to 8 inches of foundation at a time.
Tip: Some contractors use recycled crushed concrete instead of road stone to save money. Crushed concrete will deteriorate over time and cause pavers to shift, sink, or rise.
Concrete Sand Bedding
Your next step is to lay the concrete sand filling in the last inch of depth. Use a laser level and the compactor to smooth over the area leaving a gentle slope away from your home so water won't pool in the middle or run off towards your house.
Tip: Some contractors use “dust” as a cheap alternative to concrete sand. Over time, dust will eat away the base of your pavers causing severe deterioration.
Installing Pavers
Begin installing pavers by starting with the border. Then lay down the inside pavers in the desired pattern leaving 1/16" to 1/8" gap between each paver. When cutting pavers, use a cutoff saw with a water attachment — in New Jersey it's required by law. Wear proper eye protection and a breathing mask.
Edging & Clean Up
After all the pavers are in position, install the edging restraint snug against the pavers to prevent shifting. Spread polymeric sand over the pavers and sweep into the joints. Compact, then clean all remaining debris.
Tip: Some contractors use concrete to seal edges ($3/bag) instead of quality edging restraint ($12/length). Concrete deteriorates quickly — quality restraint ensures your pavers hold up for many years.
Our Installation Work
Using the right materials may cost a few extra dollars now, but will save you thousands down the road. If you are selecting a contractor make sure you ask them the appropriate questions so you know they aren't cutting corners when they are installing your pavers. We have seen so many failed paver installations over the years and 90% of the time it was due to the wrong materials being used or not digging a proper foundation. NJ Paver Restorations is certified by the ICPI (Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute) and the NCMA (National Concrete Masonry Association). We always follow the best practices to create beautiful paver walkways, patios and driveways that last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of pavers are best for driveways in Stirling, NJ?
Pavers that are 3 inches in thickness are best for driveway applications. But they need to be installed on a minimum of 12 inches of stone base. Too many driveways fail because of not enough of a stone base.
Do you handle both residential and commercial paver installation in Stirling, NJ?
Yes, we handle both commercial and residential projects.
Are there eco-friendly paver installation options available in Stirling, NJ?
Yes, we can do a permeable paver installation. This will keep water run off to minimum from your property.
Do you offer warranties on paver installations in Stirling, NJ?
We offer a 5 year warranty against settlement and workmanship issues.
Curious how we work?
From the first call to the final inspection, we follow a proven process that protects your property and delivers lasting results. See Our Process →
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