How we prepare the foundation for paving stone
The quality and durability of interlocking paving stones are highly dependent on the foundation on which they are installed. It’s estimated that around 85% of all interlocking paver damage is due to a poor foundation, leading to problems such as subsidence, worn joints and asymmetrical surfaces.
When you choose Terrassement Euro for your landscaping, you can rest assured that we take the time to properly prepare the site to deliver a durable paver that retains its beauty and aesthetic appeal for many years to come.
Earthmoving services for long-lasting, elegant results
At Terrassement Euro, we take the time to prepare the ground in such a way as to guarantee long-lasting, elegant results. We carry out a thorough diagnosis to identify possible sources of irregularities, such as organic matter, stagnant water and voids beneath the soil.
Once we’ve identified these potential problems, we carry out rigorous ground preparation to create a stable base for the installation of uni-stone and ensure its longevity.
Finally, we always install to the highest standards to ensure breathtaking results.
Preparing the site for a granular foundation
Laying a granular foundation is an important step in any landscaping project involving interlocking paving stones. It involves preparing the ground so that it can withstand the greater weight and pressure applied by interlocking paving stones.
There are several stages to this preparation, including digging, levelling the ground and adding gravel or fine sand. This may also include drainage to reduce the possibility of standing water build-up, which can affect the quality of the final result.
Only once the foundation has been properly installed will it be possible to add interlocking paving stones according to your specific requirements to achieve a strong, durable surface for your landscaping.
Here’s what we’re doing to prepare the ground in detail
Earthwork around the area where the interlocking paving stones will be installed
The first step is to level the ground around the area where the interlocking paving stone will be installed. To do this, we use our own specialized equipment to level the ground and create a trough around the installed area.
This gives the pavers a firm footing and prevents them from sinking or sliding into each other when subjected to weight. It also preserves the aesthetics of the pavers by keeping them in line with each other when they are installed.
Level the floor to make it flat and even
This is an effective base layer that supports the weight of the pavers and fixes them firmly in place, while preventing damage caused by soil movement. Layers should be added one at a time, and each layer firmly tamped with a hand tamper or plate compactor until flat and compact.
Constant levelling and compaction of each layer as it is added will give a smoother appearance.
Add gravel or fine sand to the surface, in thick, compacted layers
This creates a solid, level base for the pavers, ensuring that they remain perfectly positioned, even in the event of impacts or numerous climate changes.
To make these layers as effective as possible, we use materials of similar size, which are then carefully compacted for maximum durability.
Install additional drainage if necessary to prevent the build-up of stagnant water
To ensure a solid foundation, additional drainage may be required to prevent the accumulation of standing water. If necessary, an approved underlayment will be installed under the pavers to direct surface water away from the property. This will prevent water from accumulating on the pavers, enabling them to retain their structural integrity for many years to come.
Install interlocking paving stones on the prepared foundation
We pay attention to detail to ensure that each paver rests correctly and follows the contours to create an aesthetically pleasing end result. We take care to level each paver, cut it with a water saw if necessary, and make sure there are no gaps between pavers.
Our team’s experience and attention to detail guarantee each and every one of our customers a beautiful finished product to enjoy for years to come. Click here to see our work and you’ll be convinced.
Finishing paver joints, an essential task
Laying interlocking paving stones requires much more than simply laying and levelling them. Once the paver has been laid, it’s very important to ensure that the joints between each brick are well filled. The purpose of this step is to prevent displacement of the pavers due to movement caused by use or uncontrolled water ingress.
Once the joints have been filled, an additional layer of stabilization can be applied using polymer sand, making the spaces between the pavers stronger and less susceptible to weed growth.
At Terrassement Euro, our professional team has the expertise and experience to take proper care of joint finishing to give your landscape a uniform, long-lasting end result.
