Creating A Gorgeous Garden

5 Tips To Prevent Paver Stone And Brick Crumbling

1 March 2022 by Tiffany Gonzales

A paver or brick patio is an attractive and often inexpensive patio paving option. One issue with pavers and bricks, though, is that they can crack and crumble over time. Fortunately, proper installation can prevent most paver crumbling issues.

1. Compacted Base

Any shifting of the soil beneath the pavers can cause them to settle and crack. Eventually, small cracks result in crumbling because moisture makes its way into the paver. Your installers, however, should carefully level and grade the base before laying down the pavers. This base must be thoroughly compacted to further ensure that minimal settling occurs. 

2. Good Drainage

Compaction isn't the only requirement for the base. It also must drain well so that water doesn't collect and degrade the condition of the pavers. To this end, gravel and sand are often put down on top of the compacted soil. This layer is also leveled and compacted to reduce the chances of settling while also maintaining the water-permeable qualities that allow for the necessary drainage of standing water off the pavers. In low areas, your installers may recommend putting in additional ground drains to aid water movement away from the pavers. 

3. Proper Pavers

You shouldn't use just any type of brick or stone for paving. You need those specifically created or selected for the purpose so that they will withstand foot traffic and weathering without developing cracks or crumbling bits. Pavers and bricks for ground use are often thicker and they are carefully selected to avoid cracks and small holes. They may also be sealed to further slow water penetration. 

4. Sealed Joints

There are two types of joints common on paver surfaces. Sometimes traditional mortar is used, while in other instances sand joints are more common. Sand has the benefit that it allows the pavers to swell and contract in response to moisture and temperature, which can reduce crumbling and breakage. If you opt for sand joints, have them all sealed to prevent the loss of sand and to keep moisture from penetrating the joints. 

5. Edge Protection

Grass and plant incursion along the edges of the paved area can lead to joint failure and crumbling pavers along the affected areas. Your installers can put in edge restraints which form a barrier against plant incursion and ensures the pavers don't shift out of alignment over time. Edge restraints are usually made of pressure-treated lumber that is resistant to rotting and breakage. Those made of synthetic materials are also available. 

Contact a pavers installation service to learn more about the best way to put in a new patio or path.

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