" Prep is everything "

Top 7 Things to Know About a Paving-Stone Driveway (and How to Avoid Costly Mistakes)

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1. Proper Excavation Depth Is Critical

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A paving-stone driveway isn’t just stones on dirt.
You need 4–6 inches ( sometimes up to 12, if the soil is weak ) of total excavation to allow for base, bedding sand, and pavers.
Too shallow = sinking, rutting, and frost movement within 1–2 winters.

Avoid the mistake: Never settle for anything less than proper depth, especially in rainy or clay-heavy soil.

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2. Use the Right Base Material (and Enough of It)

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Your driveway’s strength comes from the base, not the stones.

Use 3/4" crushed gravel (road base) compacted in 3–4 inch lifts.
Typical driveway base: 6–8 inches minimum, more if soil is weak.

Avoid the mistake: Don’t use round rock or recycled concrete as your main base material—they don’t lock together properly.

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3. Proper Compaction Makes or Breaks the Job

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Even expensive pavers will fail with poor compaction.
Every layer—subsoil, base gravel, and bedding sand—should be machine-compacted with a plate compactor.

Avoid the mistake: Never compact more than 3–4 inches at a time. Thick lifts don’t compact evenly and cause sinking later.

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4. Good Drainage Prevents Heaving and Frost Damage

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Water is the enemy.
Your driveway needs the correct slope (2% minimum) directing water away from the house.

Avoid the mistake: Avoid flat driveways. Without slope, water will pool under the stones, freeze, and lift sections.

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5. Edge Restraints Are Required (Not Optional)

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Paver driveways spread over time unless edges are locked in place.

Use:

• Concrete edge restraints, or

• PVC edge restraints with spikes

Avoid the mistake: Skipping edges will cause the driveway to spread apart and open gaps within 1–2 years.

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6. Choose the Right Paver Pattern for Vehicle Traffic

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Driveway pavers must handle weight, so patterns matter.

Best patterns:

• Herringbone (most durable)

• 45° herringbone for maximum strength

Worst pattern for driveways:

• Running bond (long straight lines) — it shifts under weight.

Avoid the mistake: Don’t choose a weak pattern just for looks.

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7. Don’t Forget Joint Sand and Sealing

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After installation, polymeric sand locks the pavers together and prevents weeds.

Sealing is optional but recommended for:

• Stain protection

• Colour enhancement

• Longer life for your driveway

Avoid the mistake: Avoid cheap sand. Use high-quality polymeric sand and let it cure properly before driving on it.

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