Paving costs

1. The substrate determines the load-bearing capacity

Before you pave a surface, you have to excavate a 40 - 70 cm deep pit, fill it with 0-32 mm sand or grit for frost protection. The height of this layer depends on the structure of the surface slabs and the expected load. This layer, called the subbase, has to be well compacted so that it can withstand the expected load and slope at 2.5%.

2. Drainage sheet

The purpose of a drainage sheet, laid above or below the subbase, is to prevent water ingress into it. It will also keep the walking surface level and stable, free of bumps, holes, and ruts.

3. Drainage layer

The drainage layer is made up of special sand of a large grain size (4–8 mm x 3.5 cm) resistant to water. Its laid over the drainage sheet. Note that this layer cant be compacted with vibratory plate and must slope at least at a minimum degree. Installation is done with wooden or aluminium joists, also used in the end to level the surface out and remove extra sand.

4. Paving work

The first piece of the surface layer is laid in the corner at a right angle. The rule of thumb is to start at the shallowest point. Its important that pavers shouldnt be laid tightly together. Instead, allow some joint space between them and make sure its the same size throughout. This will ensure equal distribution of load. To make sure the pavers are arranged in a straight line, use a string. To keep them flush with one another, use a rubber mallet or joist. Pavers arranged along walls and edges are usually cut to fit. Include different colours and shades to break the monotony.

5. Grouting and grout

When you lay down all the pavers, use quartz sand for grouting. Plan to spend about 2.5–3.0 kg/sqm. Its very important you do this in dry weather. Youll find it easy to remove extra sand. Repeat the procedure 2–3 times.

5.1. Grouting sand

Use of unsuitable grout can lead to pooling, unevenness, and damage. Its essential to keep the joint width between 3 and 5 mm, and choose the right type of sand. Quartz sand of 0.3–0.6 mm grain size is the most popular choice. Grouting sand should be dry and clean like clay.

6. Compacting with a vibratory plate

In the end, the paved surface is compacted with a vibratory plate. This machine generates vibrations, which compact and stabilize the subgrade and the surface layer. The plate has a rubber bottom to prevent surface damage. Its important to use a vibratory plate on a debris-free surface.

6.1. Paver installation over concrete

In most cases, pavers are installed over a sand subgrade, but they can also be laid over existing concrete. This approach is suitable for high-traffic surfaces, like those intended for freight traffic. Existing concrete can easily turn into a substrate for your new pavement. However, the downside is that youd have to break the concrete slab to excavate a pit, which is a complex and expensive job.

7. Paving costs

How much does paving cost? Paving costs depend on the pit depth, subbase thickness, expected load, and pavers size. Excavation, substrate preparation, and paving with concrete slabs.