How long do concrete pavers last?
30 years, this is much longer than any other pavement surface, under normal residential use.
Can dirty or broken pavers be replaced?
Yes. Unlike other pavement surfaces, individual pavers can be pulled out and replaced.
Will freezing and thawing damage my pavers?
No. Freeze thaw cycle damage is virtually non-existent. The joints allow for movement without cracking the pavers.
Will pavers be slippery?
No. Their surface texture is ideal for safe traction in pedestrian, vehicular and pool applications, even when wet.
Will an edge restraint be installed?
Yes. All of our paver applications use an edge restraint, either aluminum or PVC, to eliminate horizontal migration of the pavers.
Are the joints between the pavers filled with sand?
Yes. The joints between the pavers are filled with a polymeric sand. This sand provides the necessary interlock between the pavers and also helps to prevent water from penetrating the surface. Polymeric sand has also been shown to reduce weeds, ants, and also increase overall project stability.
Do I need to seal the pavers?
No. You do not need to seal the pavers, however sealing does enhance the color. Sealer should always be applied a minimum of 1 year after installation date to allow adequate time for any efflorescence to wear off.
Some of my pavers have a white haze on them?
This white haze is known as efflorescence. This is a naturally occurring event that happens as the concrete cures. There are specialty cleaners available on the market, however the best solution to manage efflorescence is to let the pavers weather naturally.
My neighbor had a landscaper install a patio and it’s full of weeds. Mine won’t look like that, will it?
NO! Proper education, certification and knowledge of the industry allows us to provide you with a finished product that is far superior to that of any other company. The average landscape company can install pavers…incorrectly. Correct methods ensure a lasting project!
I’m debating stamped concrete or pavers, which one is better?
There are two types of concrete: concrete that is cracked now, and concrete that will crack. Once the stamped concrete cracks, what are you going to do? Unlike pavers, you can’t pull up a single stone and replace it. The same applies to stains. If you should happen to stain a paver with an oil or grease (food, engine oil, wine), it is easy to replace pavers, whereas the stamped concrete would need extensive cleaning which may ruin the coloring dyes.
Pavers are stronger! Stamped concrete is poured with 3500psi mix concrete; pavers are produced at 9000 psi min, upwards of 12,000 psi. Pavers offer a larger variety of options and designs, and are rock salt resistant. Many paver manufacturers also offer lifetime transferrable warranties on the installed products.
Concrete/stamped concrete will require permits! 98% of all townships consider concrete to be a permanent structure and will require you to get approved zoning/building permits. Pavers do not fall under the same category and do not require permits, saving you money and time.
If needed, pavers can be chosen for permeable applications. Some area’s require that a predetermined percentage of ground remain permeable. With pavers this is easily achievable. There are various pavers on the market that allow for 100% permeation of rain water.
I’ve received a few estimates that are significantly varied in price, what should I do?
In the Hardscaping industry, you get what you pay for. Always make sure the estimates are apples to apples comparison. Don’t ever assume that because it’s not written on the estimate, it’s included in the project. Lehigh Valley Hardscaping provides detailed line-by-line estimates for every project, which include base preparation depth, product to be used, color(s) of the product, methods of installation, estimated time of completion, warranty and turf repair. Just remember, it always costs more to repair someone’s installation errors a year later than it does to have it done right the first time.