FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQ

WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR GETTING STARTED?

A starting point for your dream project begins with an initial phone consultation, which will allow us to assess the general scope of the intended project. We will then schedule a date and time for our first visit and a free no-obligation estimate will be prepared. We will make you feel comfortable and un-intimidated, forming a sociable and friendly relationship built on trust. With our deep background in the paving industry, we are able to address many issues, like drainage, slope, designs, demolition & more, while planning the design and the installation process along the way. We want to offer you the best possible service for your long-term investment. If the project is initiated, we ask that you sign the bottom of the proposed contract and return the original copy back to us along with a 50% deposit. Then we can schedule your job and order your supplies to get started on your new project.

WHAT PAYMENT METHODS CAN I USE?

We accept Visa, Master Card, Discover, American Express, Check, or Cash.

WHY ARE THEY CALLED INTERLOCKING CONCRETE PAVERS?

It is the system that makes them interlocking concrete pavers, not necessarily the shape. When installed properly, the combination of the pavers, bedding sand, edge restraint and joint sand causes them to interlock, allowing them to work as a unified, flexible pavement.

HOW DO PAVERS COMPARE WITH PATTERNED OR STAMPED CONCRETE?

Patterned concrete pavements are merely slabs of concrete embossed with a pattern. Therefore, they are prone to the same problem with freeze/thaw cycles (i.e. cracking and spalling), lower strengths and higher absorption rates as poured-in-place concrete. In addition, stamped concrete requires expansion joints every 10 feet or so, which can be very distracting. Also, patterned concrete pavements don’t allow access to underground utilities or the ability to make repairs or landscape changes. At virtually the same price per square foot installed, pavers are clearly a superior choice.

WILL WEEDS GROW BETWEEN MY PAVERS?

Once complete, the installation will not permit seeds to germinate from beneath the pavers. However, weeds and grass could result from seeds or spores blowing into and lodging in the joint sand. This can be minimized by sealing the pavers. If weeds do appear, a spot vegetation killer (such as Round-Up) can be used and will not damage the pavers.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF SEALING MY PAVERS?

Sealers offer many advantages: they help resist stains, make stain removal easier, enhance the color, and bind the sand in the joints to make it difficult for weeds to germinate. Sealers, however, are topical products and must be reapplied regularly (generally every 3-5 years). Before sealing, the installation must be thoroughly cleaned and completely dry. Only water-based sealers can be used in NJ.

WHAT IS THE WHITISH DEPOSIT I SEE ON SOME PAVER INSTALLATIONS?

The white film, known as “Efflorescence”, is normal for masonry products and it may appear on the surface of the pavers. It may not occur at all. If it does occur, it is not permanent and will disappear over time. It may appear randomly or only in certain areas. It is a natural occurrence from the cement hydration process. Calcium oxide from the cement reacts with water inside the pavers and forms calcium hydroxide. This seeps to the surface and reacts with the carbon dioxide in the air to form calcium carbonate, a whitish residue. When moisture on the surface evaporates, it becomes visible. It will wash off or wear off over time. If you wish to speed up the natural process, there are cleaners available that are designed to remove efflorescence.

CAN PAVERS BE USED FOR MY DRIVEWAY OR ON MY POOL DECK?

Absolutely! For residential driveways, 8” to 12” of compacted base material is recommended. Not only do pavers make an attractive pool deck, but they also provide a slip-resistant walking surface. Pavers actually are better than poured concrete around pools from the standpoint that the joints will take on moisture and leave the pavement cooler under foot. Like all products that are used outdoors, lighter colors will tend to stay cooler as they reflect the sunlight. Furthermore, there is a wide variety of pavers which make an excellent pool coping. Safety covers can also be installed over pavers with the use of special anchors.

CAN RETAINING WALLS BE USED TO CREATE RAISED PATIO AREAS?

Yes, retaining walls are a perfect way to encase and support the gravel you would add to bring the raised areas to the desired height. You can also build stairs or steps into the raised patio.

CAN I MAKE A CURVED WALL WITH RETAINING WALL SYSTEMS?

One of the many advantages over a railroad tie wall is that walls, with either inside or outside curves, can be built with all retaining wall systems.

WHAT IF I WANT TO BUILD A FREESTANDING WALL?

No Problem! Double Sided Wall was developed to increase your creative options for walls that are functional and look great. It’s perfect for wing walls, knee walls, sitting areas, and more.

FURTHER QUESTIONS?

CONTACT US

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Email: info@thepaverguy.com
Phone: (609) 465-9102

Fax: (609) 465-1412