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Did you know that 90% of Americans agree that outdoor living space is more valuable than ever before? The value of outdoor living has pushed many homeowners to make outside upgrades in the past few years.

Upgrading your exterior takes a lot of time and planning, so you might not know where to start. Consider installing a patio paver!

Keep reading to learn about patio paver installation mistakes to avoid to ensure your project is a success.

1. Not Creating a Slope

Where the patio paver installation will take place, you need to account for the slope of the area. The slope prevents drainage issues and will direct the flow of water in a certain direction.

You’ll need to calculate to account for the slope of the area or hire professionals that can complete this for you. Without this step, draining issues will be common.

2. Not Using Proper Gravel

Many people use dirt as a patio paver base, but this is a mistake you don’t want to make. Dirt shrinks too much during compaction to be effective.

As time goes by, dirt will move around and dislodge the pavers. You’ll be left with a sunken paver installation that looks bad and could be the culprit of accidents.

Use gravel or any crushed rock instead for a successful installation.

3. Compacting the Sand Base

While installing a paver patio and establishing a good, compacted base of gravel, you’ll use sand to layer on top of it. You’ll place the pavers on top of that sand.

Some people think that this layer needs to be compacted, but this is not true. Instead, the layer of sand should be screeded so that you are left with a perfectly leveled layer.

4. Not Using the Right Method

There is one paver installation method which is head and shoulders above the rest. The click-and-drop method is ideal for concrete pavers with built-in spacers.

During installation when the pavers are touching side by side, you’ll hear a click sound, which is where the name of the method comes from. Lay pavers close to each other until you hear a click and then drop them in place.

5. Skipping Sealing

You can’t skip sealing unless you are using a non-porous paver. Pavers must be sealed to avoid different problems like weeds growing between the joints and stains.

Don’t leave sealing for later. Pavers are an investment you’ll want to protect with proper sealing.

6. Using the Wrong Pavers

Every paver has its own applications and uses, and choosing the right one for your project is key to success.

For example, you wouldn’t want to choose a travertine paver for your driveway, but it’s a great option for poolside installation.

Hiring a patio contractor is a great way to ensure you choose the right pavers for your project.

Patio Paver Installation Mistakes to Avoid

The right patio paver installation will make your exterior look appealing and will last for years. If you avoid the patio paver installation mistakes in this guide, you don’t have to worry about messing up your dream landscape.

The best way to avoid these problems is by hiring paver installers for your project. Professionals can get the job done right.Let’s get started! Contact us today for a patio paver consultation.