How to Install And Maintain Concrete Pavers

If you’re considering adding your patio or driveway to your home, it’s a good idea to consider adding concrete pavers. Concrete pavers are made from cement and small, manufactured stones resistant to weather and traffic. These porous surfaces are durable enough for both indoor and outdoor use. They are also easy to install, requiring only a few simple steps to complete the task. The following are simple-to-follow tips and techniques that will assist you in installing new concrete pavers. 

1. Identify Your Area 

 Choose the best location for your pavers and mark it out. It is important to always prepare the area properly before using concrete pavers. This ensures that you will avoid any issues with moisture damage later, and they will give you a longer life span. Make sure to use stakes, paint, and string to outline your pavers so they are straight, level, and even. 

2. Utility Service Inspection 

 Ensure all utility services, such as gas, electric, and water lines, are properly located and marked. This will help you avoid stepping on them when moving or installing the pavers. Check all components for leaks and check for signs of rust or discoloration. Make sure that all lines are marked before you start any major work on your pavers. 

3. Excavation 

 This step will involve removing the old pavement, existing soil, or turf. If possible, have an excavator do this work for you, as it will save a lot of time and hard labor. You may also want to rent a jackhammer to make room for the new ones. 

4. Compacting and Grading 

 Once your work area is ready, you will want to level and compact your new pavers by placing large pieces of heavy equipment directly over the fresh cement. Begin by spreading about two inches of concrete over the entire surface with a hand trowel. 

5. Install Geotextile Fabric 

 Before placing your pavers, you will want to lay down a layer of geotextile fabric. That way, you will ensure that the ground stays in place and prevents any trapped water from causing damage to your drains and other fixtures. The fabric is simple to install. Cut it into manageable squares, lay the squares next to each other, and then secure them with staples or nails. 

6. Install Base Material 

 To install base material, spread and tamp it into place. Your base material should be about an inch thick and leveled before you set your next row of pavers. 

7. Spread the Setting Bed 

 On top of your compacted base material, you will lay a layer of setting bed. This is simply a leveling material that you will use to help your pavers set firmly into place. Always ensure the bed is level and tamp it down until it’s nice and firm. 

8. Install Pavers 

 Now, you will want to place your concrete pavers in one row at a time using spacers on either side of the piece. The spacers will keep them perfectly straight between each row and at the end of each row. You can also choose to lay them in a pattern that is appealing to the eye. 

9. Compacting and Sweeping 

 Using the compactor, begin compounding the pavers, sweeping all excess material to the side of your work area. The main aim is to push down loose materials and help them settle. Compacting is quite easy thanks to compacting equipment available for rent in most areas. 

10. Seal the Pavers 

 To finish, seal your pavers using a concrete sealant. Sealing your pavers helps keep your pavers looking new even after many years of heavy use. Brush on a thin layer of sealant in several coats for best results. Just be sure to allow it to dry completely before walking on it or driving over it with your car again. 

Conclusion 

 Once you install concrete pavers, you will notice how much more durable and beautiful they will look compared to your old pavement. For quality work, ensure that you hire a professional company. Just make sure that all of the prep work and installation is done properly the first time around.