Frequently Asked Questions, Pavers
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At Brevard Pro Pavers, we fully understand that making the decision to invest in an installation of this scale can sometimes feel overwhelming, and come with a variety of questions especially for those who are new to the industry. In an effort to ease any concerns and make sure that our prospective customers are well versed and comfortable with such a project, we have outlined a few of the topics that come up the most. That being said if there is anything you would like to hear more about, or wish to discuss something not listed, do not hesitate to give us a call today, we would be very happy to help you with anything!
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What are pavers?
Pavers in general are simply hard landscaping elements typically made from stone, brick, granite, tile, or other durable materials. These pieces, often ranging in size from a few inches to a foot, are laid on flattened sand to provide an extremely durable and long lasting surface for uses including patios, driveways, walkways, and pool decks.
What are the main types and styles of pavers?
A massive selection of styles, colors, and shapes are available, while the most common are square and rectilinear forms. Paver types can generally be divided into three categories including stone, concrete, and brick, with a large amount of variations on each. Typically brick and concrete pieces have good uniformity, while more natural stone options have slightly differing forms throughout, making the installation process more specific but also adding lots of character to the project. Pattern templets are also available to create circular, hexagonal, and organic designs.
Can pavers be installed over existing concrete?
Yes, they can be placed directly over top of previously poured concrete, just so long as the shape and overall condition of that surface still has a good amount of structural integrity and no major cracks or holes can be found. However a strongly packed base and top filler of coarse sand will still be needed to allow for a strong holding installation, especially when no mortar is being used. As well, the staked metal edging should be placed around the perimeter. It is important in this scenario to consider what the finished level of the surface will be since you may be starting higher, in which case it may be necessary to build up additional ground around the area. Removal and excavation of old concrete is often cheaper than expected, so be sure and explore that as an option as well.
How many pavers do I need for my patio or driveway?
There are many methods that can be used to get a better idea of what amount of individual pavers you may need for a project. We typically begin getting a rough estimate by adding 5-10% to the overall surface area of the installation. This number also allows for additional pavers in order to account for those that will be cut down to fill edges, corners, or navigate around obstacles.
What type of base is needed to lay pavers?
A base of slightly jagged crushed stones is used on the foundational layer to each project, as it has a great ability to be packed densely providing excellent structure, while also allowing ample paths for water to drain through to the ground. On top of this section and before pavers are placed, several layers of coarse paving sand is packed down by plate compressors. This sand is used as it provides great grip between stones and is small enough to pack into all tight areas creating uniformity.
What are flamed pavers?
A flamed paver is one that has a slightly textured or stippled surface, as apposed to the more smooth flat finishes commonly found on others. This is a feature typically seen on granite stones, and can be a great option for pool decks or entryways because of its slip resistant attributes.
How long will stone pavers last?
Outside of the fact that they are an excellent option simply based off their ease and cost effectiveness of replacement, a paved surface could easily last 50-100 years, and even beyond that when they are properly sealed as well as cleaned with alkaline solutions. Regardless, stone pavers have always been designed for their permanence, and they possess incredible strength, which is why they can still be found in good condition from centuries old installations all over the world.
Pavers in general are simply hard landscaping elements typically made from stone, brick, granite, tile, or other durable materials. These pieces, often ranging in size from a few inches to a foot, are laid on flattened sand to provide an extremely durable and long lasting surface for uses including patios, driveways, walkways, and pool decks.
What are the main types and styles of pavers?
A massive selection of styles, colors, and shapes are available, while the most common are square and rectilinear forms. Paver types can generally be divided into three categories including stone, concrete, and brick, with a large amount of variations on each. Typically brick and concrete pieces have good uniformity, while more natural stone options have slightly differing forms throughout, making the installation process more specific but also adding lots of character to the project. Pattern templets are also available to create circular, hexagonal, and organic designs.
Can pavers be installed over existing concrete?
Yes, they can be placed directly over top of previously poured concrete, just so long as the shape and overall condition of that surface still has a good amount of structural integrity and no major cracks or holes can be found. However a strongly packed base and top filler of coarse sand will still be needed to allow for a strong holding installation, especially when no mortar is being used. As well, the staked metal edging should be placed around the perimeter. It is important in this scenario to consider what the finished level of the surface will be since you may be starting higher, in which case it may be necessary to build up additional ground around the area. Removal and excavation of old concrete is often cheaper than expected, so be sure and explore that as an option as well.
How many pavers do I need for my patio or driveway?
There are many methods that can be used to get a better idea of what amount of individual pavers you may need for a project. We typically begin getting a rough estimate by adding 5-10% to the overall surface area of the installation. This number also allows for additional pavers in order to account for those that will be cut down to fill edges, corners, or navigate around obstacles.
What type of base is needed to lay pavers?
A base of slightly jagged crushed stones is used on the foundational layer to each project, as it has a great ability to be packed densely providing excellent structure, while also allowing ample paths for water to drain through to the ground. On top of this section and before pavers are placed, several layers of coarse paving sand is packed down by plate compressors. This sand is used as it provides great grip between stones and is small enough to pack into all tight areas creating uniformity.
What are flamed pavers?
A flamed paver is one that has a slightly textured or stippled surface, as apposed to the more smooth flat finishes commonly found on others. This is a feature typically seen on granite stones, and can be a great option for pool decks or entryways because of its slip resistant attributes.
How long will stone pavers last?
Outside of the fact that they are an excellent option simply based off their ease and cost effectiveness of replacement, a paved surface could easily last 50-100 years, and even beyond that when they are properly sealed as well as cleaned with alkaline solutions. Regardless, stone pavers have always been designed for their permanence, and they possess incredible strength, which is why they can still be found in good condition from centuries old installations all over the world.
