Paver patios
Concrete, travertine and natural stone pavers in a range of patterns and colors.
Pavers & Hardscaping
Hardscaping gives a yard its structure — the patios, paths and walls that make outdoor spaces usable, low-maintenance and beautiful alongside water-wise planting.
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Request a Free EstimateBuild the foundation of your yard
Hardscaping provides the paths, patios and walls that make a yard usable. Combined with drought-tolerant planting or artificial grass, it can reduce outdoor water use.
A paver patio is also the usual foundation for an outdoor kitchen or a pergola.
Common hardscaping projects
Walkways & entries
Front paths and side yards that improve access and curb appeal.
Driveways
Paver and concrete driveways designed for durability and drainage.
Walls & steps
Seat walls, planters, steps and borders that define outdoor rooms.
Excavation and base preparation
What's under the pavers decides how long they stay flat. Most failures — sinking, shifting, weeds — trace back to the base.
- Excavation depth
- Soil is removed to allow for base, bedding and paver thickness. Driveways need a deeper base than patios.
- Compacted aggregate base
- Crushed rock is placed and compacted in layers to support loads and resist settling.
- Bedding and edge restraint
- A screeded sand layer sets pavers to grade, and edge restraints keep them from spreading.
- Joint sand
- Joints are filled and compacted; polymeric sand can help limit weeds and washout.
Drainage and permeable pavers
Hardscape changes how water moves across your yard, so slope and drainage are designed before anything is laid.
- Slope away from the house
- Surfaces are graded to carry water away from foundations and doors.
- Drains and channels
- Area drains or channel drains collect water in low spots and along walls.
- Permeable pavers
- Wider joints and an open-graded base let rainwater soak in, reducing runoff. Some cities encourage permeable surfaces.
- Pairing with planting
- Combining hardscape with drought-tolerant landscaping or artificial turf can lower outdoor water use.
Surface materials
The surface sets the look and sets expectations for maintenance.
- Concrete pavers
- Many shapes and colors; individual units can be lifted and replaced.
- Natural stone
- Travertine, flagstone and others; travertine stays relatively cool underfoot.
- Poured concrete
- Broom, stamped or exposed-aggregate finishes; joints control cracking.
- Walls and steps
- Seat walls, planters and steps add structure. Taller retaining walls may need engineering and permits.
How the project typically unfolds
AAA All America Affordable Construction and Remodeling Inc. manages the agreed construction process, including applicable permit coordination, inspections, project management, subcontractor coordination, quality oversight, warranties and project completion. BH Signature personally reviews homeowner inquiries and introduces relevant project details to the identified licensed contracting partner, which handles construction planning and delivery.
- Step 1
Site review
Assess soil, existing drainage, slopes, utilities and how the space will be used.
- Step 2
Layout and material selection
Plan patios, paths, walls and drainage, and choose surfaces.
- Step 3
Excavation and base
Excavate, install drainage and compact the base in layers.
- Step 4
Installation
Set bedding, lay pavers or stone, cut edges and install restraints.
- Step 5
Joints and walkthrough
Fill and compact joints, clean the surface and review care instructions.
Responsibilities depend on the agreed project scope and contract. Permit approval rests with the relevant authorities; warranty coverage and terms are confirmed for your project. Completion timing depends on the work, site conditions and required approvals, not a promised date.
Comparing hardscape surfaces
| Surface | Drainage | Repairs | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete pavers | Surface drainage via slope | Replace individual units | Joint sand top-up, occasional sealing |
| Permeable pavers | Water passes through joints | Replace individual units | Clear joints of debris periodically |
| Natural stone | Depends on installation | Replace individual stones | Sealing for some stones |
| Poured concrete | Surface drainage via slope | Cracks are harder to hide | Periodic sealing for decorative finishes |
Frequently asked questions
Why do some paver patios sink or shift?
Usually because of insufficient excavation, poor compaction or missing edge restraints. A properly built base is the most important part of the job.
Are permeable pavers worth it?
They reduce runoff and puddling and can help where drainage is limited. They need an open-graded base and occasional joint cleaning.
Pavers or poured concrete?
Pavers can be repaired unit by unit and handle minor ground movement well. Poured concrete has a seamless look but cracks are harder to repair invisibly.
How do I maintain pavers?
Sweep regularly, top up joint sand when needed, address weeds early and reseal if your chosen surface calls for it.
Start Your Project With a Personal Connection.
Considering this home improvement? Tell BH Signature what you have in mind. The licensed contractor can then discuss your property, project scope, consultation, and estimate directly with you.
Request Your Free EstimateFree estimates are provided by the licensed contractor, AAA All America Affordable Construction and Remodeling Inc..