Installing pavers correctly is important, but there are many other factors to consider. Natural stone pavers are a durable, beautiful, and long-lasting material that can be used in landscape designs for public spaces when installed correctly.
A solid foundation is essential if you want to make your pavers last. The wrong paver base or improper installation can cause uneven or cracked pavers. It is important to understand the differences between installation methods and which base should be used in landscape paving. Discussing your paving project will ensure that it is completed successfully and maintained for many years.
Do You Really Need a Paver Base?
If you lay pavers without a foundation, the results will be disappointing. The pavers may crack if they are not able to support weight or pressure, and there is no drainage.
What’s the Best Material to Use Under Pavers?
The right base material for your project depends on many factors, such as the location of the site, drainage requirements, intended use, and more. Under pavers, you can use mortar, sand, or bituminous materials.
Should I Lay Pavers on Sand or Mortar?
It will again depend on a number of factors. It is the most common method and is used in areas with pedestrians or vehicles where a rigid structure is needed. As part of the mortar system, joints are grouted. Mortar provides flexibility to the bed of the setting, which allows for the efficient setting of large or irregularly shaped pieces. Mortar systems are used in many parts of the country as a high-performance, long-lasting setting system. In a mortar installation, it is essential to drain surface water.
Can Sand Be Used As A Paver Base?
You can use sand as a base for pavers. If a concrete base is not possible, a sand-set installation may be the best option. This system is permeability-friendly and flexible.
What kind of sand is used under pavers?
Filling joints with polymeric sand can reduce movement. The mortar system is more expensive and difficult to repair. The paver must be supported uniformly, as with other methods. If water is not able to drain properly from a sand-set system, and it gets under the stone pavers then the liquid will move the sand, causing the pavers to rock.
Which Is the Best Installation Method for Cold Climates?
Bituminous installation is gaining in popularity. It is less rigid and oil-based than mortar so it flexes more with freeze-thaw cycles. The paver’s tolerance for thickness is crucial. A bituminous set does not allow paver height adjustment like mortar or sand. Smaller piece sizes are one way to accommodate this.
Which Installation System Should I Choose for Good Drainage?
Pedestal Systems are suitable for many environments, as they don’t require a bituminous or mortar setting bed. The pedestal system is ideal for reflecting pools and fountains. It allows water to flow through the joints of the pavers, allowing drainage below the surface. Pedestal set systems can require larger stones depending on the size of the pavers. This is different from other set methods such as mortar or bituminous. Pedestal systems are used on rooftops, plazas, and street levels to drain or eliminate water.
This post was written by a professional at Apexx Enterprise LLC. Adam Ortega founded the company Apexx Enterprise LLC, in 2016 at only 20 years old. Mr. Ortega has become a licensed paver contractors Marana AZ like his father and grandfather before him. Apexx Enterprise LLC is licensed, bonded, and insured and it is available for review at the Better Business Bureau. Apexx Enterprise LLC has won many achievements within the Home Advisor platform and we have multiple reviews as well. Their Mission Statement – “Our crew at Apexx Enterprise will perform the highest quality construction services for our customers. We aim to achieve our mission through total service satisfaction and by delivering our services while maintaining the highest levels of professionalism, integrity, and honesty.”