Common Mistakes During Paver Installation

Common Mistakes During Paver Installation

Paver installation is an excellent choice for driveways, patios, and walkways. However, when certain steps are overlooked, pavers can quickly shift, sink, or deteriorate—especially in Montreal’s demanding climate.

Below are the most common mistakes during paver installation and how to avoid them to ensure a durable, long-lasting result.

1. Insufficient Excavation

One of the most common mistakes is not excavating deep enough. Shallow excavation leaves the natural soil supporting the weight of the pavers, which leads to movement after freeze-thaw cycles.

In Montreal, proper excavation is essential to:

• remove unstable soil

• create a solid base

• prevent settling

Insufficient depth compromises durability from the very beginning.

2. Poorly Prepared Base

The base is the foundation of a successful paver installation. A crushed stone base that is too thin or improperly compacted is a frequent cause of unstable pavers.

Common errors include:

• low-quality crushed stone

• insufficient compaction

• installing the base in a single layer instead of multiple compacted layers

A poorly prepared base almost always leads to premature repairs.

3. Missing Geotextile Fabric

Geotextile fabric prevents the natural soil from mixing with the base material. Without it:

• the base deteriorates over time

• drainage is compromised

• pavers lose stability

This step is often ignored but is critical for long-term performance.

4. Poor Drainage Management

Inadequate drainage allows water to collect beneath the pavers. During winter, this water freezes, lifts the surface, and causes settling once it thaws.

Common drainage issues include:

• insufficient slope

• surfaces that are too flat

• lack of water-flow planning

Proper drainage is essential to prevent seasonal movement.

5. Using the Wrong Joint Sand

Joint material plays a major role in paver stability. Using regular sand instead of polymeric sand can cause:

• joints to wash out

• individual pavers to shift

• weed growth between pavers

Properly installed polymeric sand helps lock the entire surface together.

6. Skipping Final Compaction

Even with a solid base, improper final compaction can compromise the installation. This step is necessary to:

• stabilize the pavers

• fully lock the joints

• level the surface

Skipping or rushing this step increases the risk of short-term movement.

7. Underestimating the Impact of Snow Removal

In Montreal, pavers are subjected to vehicle weight, snow blowers, and sometimes snowplow blades. If the installation is not designed for these conditions, surfaces can deteriorate faster.

A professional installation accounts for:

• intended use

• traffic type

• repeated winter loads

How to Avoid These Mistakes

The best way to prevent these issues is to:

• properly plan excavation

• use high-quality materials

• follow proven installation methods

• hire experienced professionals

A properly installed paver surface remains stable, safe, and visually appealing for many years.

Conclusion

Paver problems are rarely caused by the material itself. In most cases, they result from installation mistakes. By avoiding these common errors and using methods suited to Montreal’s climate, homeowners can achieve a durable and reliable outdoor surface.

If you are planning a paver project in Montreal or the West Island, Paysagement Stoneway can provide professional installation adapted to local conditions.

Contact us today for a free estimate and expert advice tailored to your property.