Concrete Pavers: What You Need to Know by Bill Dittman

One of the most beautifying and creative additions you can make to your home or business is the addition of a patio surface, walkway, or creative stone and paver enhancement. These additions can add tremendous value and usability to your home or business. However, before you rush to the phone book and call just any paving contractor, there are things you probably need to consider.

Paver installation is a skill that requires education and specific knowledge. You really can't call Bob from down the street and slap a few pavers in by yourself and expect it to last for years to come.

The base material is determined, for the most part, by the condition of the soil that is located under where the pavers are to be laid. Each state is unique, but basically pavers are laid on their base material which is determined by the type of material used under that particular state's major roadways. Your paver contractor should be able to tell you offhand which material is used and how much is needed. Obviously, if a paver contractor can't explain this thoroughly to you, it's time to move on to a new paver contractor.

The foundation of the paver installation process must be precise. The soil density is vital to the paver installation process, and if you want the paver installation to last, it really is best to call in a qualified professional paver contractor. A weak or saturated area of soil may not reach the required density levels for proper paver installation, and then naturally the area would need to be modified in order for the pavers to lay properly. The basic goal, outside of beautiful and sound construction of the paver area, is to create the soil foundation a minimum of 95% Proctor density. Without great enough density the inevitable is bound to happen sooner or later, and the pavers may crack, split, or cave in under you without warning. A qualified paver contractor can explain exactly how this density requirement applies to your property, and what can be done to improve it prior to the paver installation.

Pavers can be installed in a variety of unique and interesting patterns to add flair and interesting qualities to your home, garden, or business. When laying pavers, long straight lines should be avoided, and either a basket weave pattern or a varying unique pattern should be used in straight line paver installation. This creates an ambiance that is reflective of your personality, as well as the home or business' personality. A qualified paver contractor should be able to interest you in all kinds of unique paver designs and show you exactly how paver installation can dramatically beautify your home or business.

When looking for a paver contractor, make sure he or she is willing to listen to your ideas and thoughts, and then build upon them. A quality paver contractor will come will a solid reputation and references that are impeccable. Most of all, a paver contractor should be enthusiastic about your project. It is a project of creativity and artistic impression, combined with skill and knowledge. A lack of enthusiasm can be taken for a lack of artistic ability.

Author Resource: Bill Dittman is President of Custom Landscape & Irrigation, an acclaimed commercial and residential landscaping contractor located near Houston, Texas. Dittman serves residential and commercial clients in many Houston suburbs. Visit http://www.customlandscapeandirrigation.com to learn about more.

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