The performance of an interlocking driveway depends heavily on the preparation beneath the visible surface.
Step 1: Site Assessment and Design
The process begins with an assessment of the installation area. We review the project dimensions, existing surface conditions, site access, drainage, elevation changes, vehicle use, and connections to garages, walkways, steps, and entrances.
We also help homeowners select a paver style, colour, pattern, and border that complements the property’s architecture.
Step 2: Excavation and Base Preparation
The area is excavated to a depth appropriate for the soil conditions, drainage requirements, selected paver system, and intended traffic.
A suitable granular base is installed in layers and compacted to create stable support. Inadequate excavation or compaction can contribute to sinking, rutting, shifting, and uneven pavers.
Step 3: Grading and Bedding
The base is graded to help direct water away from the home, garage, and other structures.
An approved bedding material is then placed and carefully screeded to create a consistent surface for the pavers.
Step 4: Paver Installation and Edge Restraints
The pavers are installed according to the approved pattern and colour layout. Units are cut where needed to create clean transitions around curves, borders, garages, steps, and other fixed features.
Edge restraints are installed to help prevent the outside pavers from spreading and weakening the interlocking system.
Step 5: Compaction and Joint Filling
The completed surface is compacted using equipment suitable for the selected paver. Compatible jointing material is then swept into the spaces between the units and compacted according to the product requirements.
The driveway is inspected for alignment, stability, drainage, joint filling, and overall appearance.
Interlocking Paver Styles and Design Options
Interlocking pavers are available in styles ranging from clean contemporary layouts to traditional European-inspired designs.
Available options may include:
- Natural stone-style textures
- Traditional brick patterns
- Cobblestone-inspired designs
- Large-format contemporary pavers
- Contrasting borders
- Mixed sizes and modular patterns
- Coordinating walkways and entrances
Popular colours include greys, charcoals, browns, beiges, and blended natural-stone tones. Product availability may vary, and some natural differences between batches should be expected.
Optional Sealing for Interlocking Pavers
Sealing interlocking pavers is optional. A compatible sealer may enhance the colour, simplify routine cleaning, provide additional stain protection, and help stabilize certain jointing products.
Before sealing, the pavers should be clean and dry. Visible efflorescence should be addressed, and the recommendations provided by the paver, jointing-material, and sealer manufacturers should be followed.
Resealing frequency depends on the product used, vehicle traffic, sun exposure, winter conditions, cleaning practices, and the condition of the existing coating.