Paving Contractor
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Pavement made out of stones is one of the oldest forms of paving. While modern-day concrete pavers have significantly changed from the stone that the Romans used for paving their roads hundreds of years ago, the concept remains the same, a gravel base with an interlocking stone that sits on top. Pavers are a great way to increase the curb appeal of your home. Whether you want to have a plain pattern made of one color and one type of stone or a complex design with multiple styles of pavers, we can do it all. Popular applications for interlock in Ontario include; driveways, patios, pool decks, and walkways.
How are Interlock Pavers Installed in Ontario?
The installation of interlocking pavers, also known as interlock, involves a systematic process to create a visually appealing and durable surface. Here's a general overview of the steps involved in interlocking paver installation:
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Site Preparation: Begin by preparing the area where the interlocking pavers will be installed. This involves clearing the site of vegetation, debris, and any existing materials. Ensure proper grading to promote drainage away from structures.
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Excavation: Excavate the area to the required depth, taking into account the thickness of the base material and the pavers. The excavation should be deep enough to accommodate the base materials and the height of the pavers while maintaining the desired finished surface level.
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Base Preparation: Install a base material, such as crushed stone or aggregate, over the excavated area. This base provides stability, promotes drainage, and helps prevent settling. The thickness of the base material depends on the specific project requirements and soil conditions.
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Compaction: Compact the base material thoroughly using a plate compactor. This ensures a solid foundation and minimizes the risk of settling over time. The compaction process should be repeated in layers until the desired compaction level is achieved.
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Edge Restraints Installation: Install edge restraints along the perimeter of the area to contain the interlocking pavers and prevent shifting. Edge restraints can be made of materials like plastic, metal, or concrete and are secured in place with stakes.
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Sand Bedding Layer: Spread a layer of bedding sand over the compacted base. The sand provides a smooth surface for laying the pavers and allows for adjustments to achieve a level final surface. Screed bars or pipes are often used to distribute the sand evenly.
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Paver Layout: Plan the layout of the interlocking pavers according to the desired pattern. Begin laying the pavers from one corner, following the predetermined design. It's important to leave small gaps between the pavers for jointing sand.
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Cutting Pavers: As needed, cut pavers to fit around curves, edges, or structures using a saw or splitter. Ensure accurate cuts for a clean and professional appearance.
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Paver Installation: Lay the interlocking pavers in the desired pattern, tapping them into place with a rubber mallet. Pay attention to maintaining straight lines and consistent joint widths. Use string lines or guides to assist in achieving a precise layout.
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Jointing Sand: Once all the pavers are in place, spread jointing sand over the surface. The sand settles into the gaps between the pavers, providing stability and preventing weed growth. Sweep excess sand off the surface.
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Compaction and Final Checks: Compact the entire paver surface using a plate compactor. This helps set the pavers in place and ensures a level surface. Check for any uneven areas and make adjustments as needed.
Following these steps with attention to detail and precision results in a professionally installed interlocking paver surface. Regular maintenance, such as periodic re-sanding and cleaning, can help preserve the appearance and longevity of the interlock.
