Homeowners FAQ

Interlocking pavers are tiles made of concrete that simulate cobblestone paths. The individual interlocking pavers fit together to cover any area you might consider placing concrete or bricks. Since they don't use mortar or grout, interlocking pavers are simple to install yourself and even easier to maintain. Their beauty may initially attract a designer or homeowner to interlocking pavers, but this versatile building material has a lot more to offer. The pavers are constructed from poured concrete, so they are durable and resilient. The manufacturers add color to give the pavers the look of natural stone. Yet, concrete pavers are far less expensive than shaped stone.

ICPI certified installers are professionals in the paving industry. They recognize the industries standards on constructing interlocking concrete pavements. Many certified installers are ICPI members who receive technical support and the latest industry information. You can be assured that a company that has a certified installer on staff is dedicated to quality installation standards and ongoing education.

An ICPI certified installer will have the knowledge, industry support, assurance and the opportunity for continuing education. The knowledge an ICPI certified installer determines them to be professionals and they recognize industry guidelines on constructing interlocking concrete pavements. Many certified installers are ICPI members. As members, their companies receive technical support and the latest industry information. You can be assured that a company with a certified installer on staff is dedicated to quality installation guidelines and on-going education. Certified installers are initially certified for five years and may renew their certification annually. ICPI has certified over 10,000 concrete paver installers.

Before prepping the site for your installation of your hardscape project would include deciding the location of pavers, delivery of materials and set up. Your contractor should work with you to identify an accessible area for the delivered pavers, crushed stone and bedding sand. Make sure the contractor follows your local municipality’s regulations regarding temporary street storage of pavement materials if this is the only place to store the materials. Be sure you or your contractor contacts the local utility locating service to mark underground utilities (in Florida this is a law). This service will not generally locate lawn irrigation pipes. You will need to find the sprinkler lines that might need to be moved or capped off as the pavers may be installed over existing irrigation lines. If possible you should be present when the materials are delivered to ensure access to your home during the construction and convenient access for the contractor's equipment. If you are not able to be present then go over where the material needs to be dropped prior to delivery. During the installation there will be dust, dirt and noise from the equipment that removes the old pavement and excavates and place the new base, bedding sand and pavers. Keep all doors and windows close during construction. Keep all pets and children away from the construction area. Confirm paver style, color and pattern prior to having pavers laid. If a driveway is planned, do not leave your car in the garage, as you might not be able to get it out during the installation process. You and your contractor can discuss the best parking location for your cars away from the construction crew, sight and equipment. Each day observe the installation area and construction sight. If there are questions or concerns speak with your foreman before they leave for the day. Also discuss the work anticipated for the next day. Be certain the pattern, color blend, cuts and detail work meet your expectations. If you have changes you want to make, notify the contractor in writing immediately and have him provide a written change order. Change orders may require additional supplies, labor and expenses. Be very clear on your expectations. When inspecting the site after the crew has left make sure all tools and construction debris are cleaned up. If there needs to be additional attention to any areas bring it up to the foreman as as soon as possible. Upon completion of the project do a walk-thru and check for any details that need attention.

Pavers are environmentally friendly. If you have an underground repair to do, you can simply remove the pavers in the area, complete the repair and replace the pavers. This process is not so effortless with a permanent structure such as concrete or asphalt. Because pavers are flexible pavement, you will not have surface cracks that usually occur with the use of regular concrete. Also, interlocking pavers add resale value to your home. They are aesthetically pleasing and create a great curb appeal.

Polymeric sand is a high-tech mix of graded sand and binder, specially formulated for the filling of narrow or wide joints when installing pavers. The main advantage of polymeric sand compared to mason sand is that polymeric sand remains stable and is effective in resisting water erosion, frost, wind and inhibits weed growth and insect infestation. Mason sand may have the tendency to be washed out by rain and wind along with weed growth in between the joints.