Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of using interlocking pavers?

Any surface made with interlocking pavers or any other type of paving stone provides greater longevity to the finished product than if it were to have been built with concrete. Concrete does not have the ability to shift with the changes of weather and shifting ground, resulting in a greater probability of cracking over time. When using pavers or individual stones there will be narrow spaces left between each piece, thus allowing for proper expansion and contraction during the fluctuations between seasonal temperature changes. Concrete will develop cracks over time due to these conditions. In addition, if any area were to become damaged, it would only be necessary to repair that particular area rather than a larger portion if having to repair concrete.

Does the grass grow under the stone?

No, because the base under the stone is 9" deep. The ground is always excavated to approx. 9" below ground level. It is then leveled & filled with 6" crushed of concrete with 1" of river sand on top. Then the stones are installed and more river sand is applied on top and brushed into the crevices to complete the seal. Grass may grow over time if the wind has blown seedlings but it is less likely to happen because of the compaction of the sand. If grass does grow, it is easily remedied by spraying a grass killer over the area. Some people like the look of grass growing between the stones and decide to leave it. Other customers have requested to have grass planted between the stones during installation, especially when the stones are used for a patio or walkway.

Will the ground movement affect the stone?

Before any paving stones are installed we install a border on each outer edge. This is actually a concrete base in which pavers are installed on top of. Or we can install a border of short concrete beams with 3" or 4" rebar within then install the border pavers on top. Either way, the interior of the project is always secured by concrete borders. This keeps all of the paving stone in place. The only movement one might experience would primarily be from the ground below the pavers swelling or contracting slightly from temperature changes. We take care to ensure the ground below the base is properly prepared by applying a layer of limestone before the crushed concrete. The limestone becomes sticky when wet, then once it is dry it becomes very firm, almost like cement. Also, laying the pavers down in a pattern helps to solidify the final product, giving it the strength it needs to last a lifetime. Occasionally, depending on the area, the ground underneath the base will shift. If this happens and the pavers become noticeably off level, it is something the can be repaired much easier than if a solid concrete driveway had cracked. The pavers are simply removed, the base is repaired and the pavers are replaced. The stones will match the original surface, whereby, if you were to repair a portion of a cement driveway, the patched area would stick out like a sore thumb.

Are you able to cut the stones so they fit around circular objects?

Yes, we take special care in making the necessary cuts so the stones fit around circular objects.

How do the stones "interlock" between one another?

The stones interlock with one another by way of laying them down in a chosen pattern. This provides strength, stability and integrity to the structure.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any other questions or concerns!