Settlement and uneven units
Insufficient base or compaction can create low spots and trip conditions.
Pavers
Paver surfaces depend on the base, edges and drainage below the finished pattern.
Interlocking pavers and large-format concrete pavers can create durable patios and walkways when excavation, base preparation, edge restraint, grade and joints are planned correctly.
Problems addressed
What can cause paver surfaces to perform poorly.
Movement at the surface usually reflects a condition in the base, edges or water path.
Moving edges
Weak or missing edge restraint can allow the pattern to spread.
Poor drainage
Incorrect grade or blocked joints can create ponding and erosion.
Work considered
Paver work considered
Materials and patterns should be chosen with the intended use and maintenance in mind.
Surface types
- Interlocking pavers
- 2x2 concrete pavers
- Natural stone patios
- Paver walkways
Preparation
- Excavation
- Base installation
- Compaction
- Grade and drainage
Details
- Edge restraint
- Borders and patterns
- Steps and transitions
- Joint material and maintenance
Process
Build the surface from the base upward.
A clear process reduces uncertainty and helps the right work move forward.
Define use and layout
Identify traffic, furniture, access and connected areas.
Prepare the foundation
Excavate and build a suitable compacted base.
Install and finish
Set grade, pattern, edges, cuts, joints and transitions.
Planning considerations
Pavers are repairable, but a weak base can keep causing movement.
Individual units can often be lifted and reset. Repeated settlement may require correction below the surface.
Snow, shade, organic staining and joint maintenance should be considered when choosing material and finish.
Questions
Common questions
Straight answers help clients decide what to do next.
Are pavers more repairable than concrete?
Individual units can often be lifted and reset, but the underlying base still needs to be stable.
What affects paver cost?
Area, excavation, access, base depth, edge restraint, cuts, pattern, material and drainage affect cost.
Can pavers be installed over existing concrete?
Sometimes, but elevations, drainage, door thresholds and the condition of the concrete need review.
Which areas do you serve?
Axis Point Contracting Ltd. serves Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. Include the property city or service location so access and scheduling can be reviewed.
Keep moving
Related next steps
Use the page that best matches the property concern or project goal.
Start with clarity
Discuss the property and the work being considered.
Provide the property location, current condition and desired result.