If you know how to DIY, paver driveway installation is actually not a very difficult task. You need the right planning, preparation and know-how to get started. And we are here to help you out especially if you find it hard to find professionals who know how to install driveway pavers. There are several benefits to paver driveways and they are way better than concrete and asphalt in many aspects.
Step 1 : Planning for Laying Driveway Pavers
This step comprises of several layers. There are quite a few attributes and specifications that you need to keep in mind and even finalize at this stage. For example, the most obvious attributes include that color, shape and style of the pavers. In addition, you will need to know an estimated number of pavers that you would need before you can figure out how to install driveway pavers. In order to do that, you will need to take measurements of the driveway.
A good way to go about it could also include making a sketch to give a rough vision to your ideas. This allows for a more precise planning for laying driveway pavers. Make sure that you keep in mind the different turns or curves on your driveway while making your plan. If needed, you can ask for professional help by calling a paver driveway installer company and asking them the basics of how to install driveway pavers.
Step 2: How to do a Driveway with Pavers: Setting the Base
After the planning and getting the measurements right, it is time to lay the foundation for concrete paver driveway installation. You could begin by digging a roughly 11 inches deep base and using gravel to fill it up. Make sure to be compact and push the gravel into a thick layer. You can add water too. Check for the slope and hold the edges together with the help of materials like PVS, lumber or concrete. Finally, you can top it up with a layer of sand and smoothen it all out evenly.
Pro Tip: You may go ahead and ask for and underground utilities check at this point to find out if your area needs a deeper drainage base. Doing so in advance can prevent a ton of problems at later stages. It is related to the type of soil you have on your property because that is what determines how fast rainwater is absorbed into the ground.
Step 3: How to Install Interlocking Pavers Driveway
Once the base is set and the screeding process is done, it’s time to figure out how to install interlocking pavers driveway. It is best to begin at the lowest corner and start laying the pavers on the foundation layer. Make sure that the pavers are closely packed with each other as well as with the edges. Wherever needed, cut the pavers to fit the gaps.
Pro Tip: If you live in a place that has a colder climate, a special snow-melting system can be installed beneath the pavers. This would help keep snow off your driveway, working much like radiant indoor heating systems. If you are doubtful about this, speak to paver installation professional for clarity and advice.
Step 4: How to Install a Brick Paver Driveway: Filling the
This is the finishing layer to add the final touches to your paver driveway installation. You can use gravel again to cover the whole surface. As you sprinkle, try to maintain a thickness of a quarter inch. Then, use a wide-mouthed broom to sweep this gravel between the interlocking pavers and fill up all the gaps. You can then sweep the excess to clean off the surface and use a plate compactor to further push the pavers firmly in place.
There! Now you know how to install a brick paver driveway in four steps. Let the surface breathe and your driveway shall be ready for use soon. Make sure you maintain the pavers by preventing the accumulation of debris. In case of oil and grease stains, pressure washing usually helps. Every few years, you will have to reseal the paved surfaces to ensure that everything stays in place and in perfect working condition.
Strength and durability are two important factors to consider when choosing pavers for your driveway. The surface should be able to handle weather extremes as well as vehicle pressures constantly. So, you need to choose an option that is easy to maintain and difficult to damage. If you want to learn more about laying driveway pavers or renting the right equipment for this DIY project, speaking to paver experts can be a good idea. You can contact professionals for a free consultation and ask for help and advice so that you can be sure of the quality and durability of your driveway after the completion of your project.