Why do Interlock Concrete Pavers make the ideal pavement?

Our pavers are ideal products for any freeze/thaw environment. Proper installation of the product results in a pavement that is firm, yet flexible. The joints between pavers allow the walkway, driveway, patio, etc. to move without cracking. In addition, they can be easily removed to allow for repairs or access to utilities. Unlike asphalt, concrete pavers are basically maintenance-free and do not need to be regularly sealed or replaced.

Why are they called interlocking concrete pavers?

It is the system that makes them interlocking concrete pavers, not necessarily the shape. When installed properly, the combination of the pavers, bedding sand, edge restraint and joint sand causes them to bind, allowing them to work as a unified, flexible pavement.

How do I determine how much base material and sand I'll need?

As a rule of thumb, use a minimum of 6-8" of base material for walkways and 12-18" for patios and driveways. The sand setting bed should be a maximum of 1" thick. One ton of base material or sand will cover 100 square feet at 2" thick. Using a 10' x 10' (100 sq. ft.) patio as an example, you would need ½ ton of sand for the setting bed (1" thick) and 3 tons of modified stone for the base (6" thick). You'll also need some additional sand (about 5%) for the joints between the pavers.

What can I do if my pavers are stained or damaged?

One of the advantages of pavers is that individual units can be removed and replaced in these situations. Remove the sand around the paver and then use a Paver Puller or flat head screwdriver. Rocking the paver gently in a back and forth motion will loosen it, and eventually it will be loose enough to lift out.

Can Interlock Concrete Pavers be used for my driveway?

Absolutely! 12"-18" of compacted base material is recommended for residential driveways. A standard 2-3/8 thick paver can be used for light vehicular (cars and pickup trucks) applications. A Colonial random pattern is most popular in these situations.

Please tell me about the sand setting bed.

The material for the bedding layer should be course concrete sand. Do not use stone dust or screenings; they do not allow the pavers to set properly and tend to break down over time. The sand should be an even 1" thick layer. Do not compact the sand setting bed. Do not mix cement into the sand used for the setting bed or the joints between pavers, as this decreases the flexibility of the paver system.

How do pavers compare with patterned or stamped concrete?

Patterned concrete pavements are merely slabs of concrete that are embossed with a pattern. This type of pavement is prone to cracking when freezing and thawing occurs. Stamped concrete requires an expansion joint every 10 feet, which may be distracting in the pattern you are creating. As well, repairs to individual units or underground utility problems, can be more difficult and costly

Is there any advantage to sealing your pavers?

Sealers offer three main advantages: stain resistance, color enhancement, and binding the sand between the pavers, helping to reduce weed growth Sealants must be applied every 3-5 years.

Is snow removal possible on concrete pavers?

Pavers can be plowed or shoveled just like concrete or asphalt flooring. Do not chop or use sharp objects to break away any ice on the surface of your paved surface. Although salt will not damage your pavers, non-corrosive de-icing products are recommended.

My new pavers seem to have a film on them. What do I do to get rid of it?

The film on your pavers is caused by moisture and natural salts settling on the surface of your pavers. The best thing to do is nothing, letting it naturally weather on its own.