Onorato Landscaping: The #1 Maywood, NJ Paver Patios

Paver patios have several benefits and are relatively low maintenance. Regular cleaning and protective sealants can keep pavers protected from the elements. Depending on the type of finish, protective sealers may need to be reapplied periodically. These finishes range from completely invisible to wet look film forming sealants. Here are some tips for paver patio maintenance:

Start by designing a drainage plan and grading plan for the patio area. Many landscape contractors install patios without taking the time to consider these details. This lack of planning can be expensive. The joints between paver patios can be a breeding ground for weeds. If you’re concerned about weeds growing between paver patio joints, consider laying special sand in the joints between the tiles. Make sure to apply the proper amount of sand for your patio so that it doesn’t become an eyesore.

After laying the pavers, the final step is to install edging. Edging can be wood, plastic, or metal. If you use aluminum edging, it will last longer. In addition to edging, you can also fill the joints with polymeric sand. Adding sand after a heavy rain will prevent your patio from shifting. When laying pavers, be sure to use a rubber mallet or chisel to tap the edges in.

After installing your pavers, you must add sand to the base. It should be at least two to three inches thick. You can also use a PVC pipe or a long 2×4 to compact the sand evenly. Then, spread sand with a shovel blade or use a PVC pipe. Once the base is level, you can lay pavers on top. Be sure to leave a one-inch gap between each row.

The first thing to remember when installing a paver patio is to follow local building regulations. Although paver patios do not require permits, they may need proper drainage and substantial excavation. Check with your local building department to learn more about the requirements for installing a patio. When choosing a paver patio, consider its upkeep. Cleaning and upkeep can be easy if the pavers are treated with a protective sealer. Additionally, pavers are easier to repair if they do need to be replaced.

Installing a paver patio can increase the value of your home. Costs vary, but typically range from $2,400 to $7,500. For a 400 square foot patio, you can expect to spend five days on installation. However, you should budget at least a few thousand dollars for the best installation crew. A cheaper paver company may not be available to answer any questions you might have, will use substandard installation crews, or may not be operating legally.

Choosing the right base is crucial for the integrity of your paver patio. If your patio is a few inches too shallow, it will be easier for the pavers to sink and become sunken. This is an indication of a larger problem. The problem is most likely a drainage problem, which must be addressed before the pavers can be laid. Poor soils should be removed from the site during excavation. In addition to soils, you need to consider overstabilization of the site for paver patios.

Flagstone is a good option if you have an expansive lawn. Flagstones are made from sedimentary rock, often sandstone or a combination of various minerals. Their irregular shapes and colors are a great design feature. Flagstone costs anywhere from $10 to $30 per square foot. If you’re looking for a low maintenance, natural, and durable patio material, flagstone may be the way to go. These patios also require little maintenance.

While paver installation may be relatively easy, it is still a complex project. You must spend some time on your hands and knees and lugging piles of stones. In addition, you’ll need heavy equipment and landscaping to complete the project. If you’re doing all the work yourself, you might need to hire a professional to level the ground for you. Remember to level the ground before paver installation, otherwise you’ll end up paying more for paver installation than you expected.

Incorrect installation is another potential cause of paver problems. If you install pavers improperly, there is a good chance that they will shift and cause a tripping hazard. A poor base is most likely the cause of the problem, but poor workmanship may also cause pavers to shift. Proper installation can also avoid such issues by using a solid edging product. If the pavers shift, they’ll be much more likely to shift and fall.