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DIY Paver Patio: What Can Wrong With Your Project
The idea of installing a paver patio on your own may seem like a satisfying and cost-effective solution for homeowners. But beyond the time and energy that a DIY paver patio involves, there is quite a bit more room for error in its implementation.
Here are some of the common mistakes that we see with DIY paver patios — ones that result in unsightly, unsafe conditions and eventually expensive repairs.
Failing to Account for Surface Drainage
Stagnant water is the enemy of a healthy landscape. Not only is it an eyesore, but it also creates a breeding ground for insects and drowns plants and grass, which can lead to erosion.
Pools of water are just as detrimental to a DIY paver patio. When there is a drainage problem, the entire hardscape can start to cave in and sink, and eventually crack. All the while, rainwater that collects underneath the patio can be pushed out and damage the foundation of your home.
One of the most common causes of drainage issues in a DIY paver patio is an improper base. When homeowners fail to excavate deep enough or the base material isn’t properly compacted, the integrity of the entire structure suffers and pavers will need to be re-laid to correct the issue. It could also be that there are existing drainage problems in your landscape that simply go unaddressed in the DIY paver patio construction.
Uneven Construction Bases
While slipping hazards are prevalent issues in the winter months, tripping hazards represent a year-round concern for homeowners. While keeping your walkways and sidewalks free of debris can help minimize potential falls and liabilities, it’s sometimes a structural issue that’s to blame.
Consider this in the scope of a DIY paver patio: In a part of your landscape that is likely to see quite a bit of foot traffic, the uneven settling of pavers (whether misaligned on a vertical or horizontal level) can create dangers for homeowners and guests alike.
The root of this issue is once again the base of the DIY paver patio. In some cases, it could be that there is not enough compaction to support the weight of the pavers and the movement of people on top of them. Alternatively, a faulty base without enough compaction could also cause pavers to move and separate — or there may have been too much space between pavers from the start.
Turn to a Professional for Your Paver Patio
With all the risks (and potential extra costs) that come with a DIY paver patio, the better bet is to have a professional handle your patio installation. Years of experience combined with the optimal products and procedures mitigate the problems that come with DIY paver patios — with the right landscape provider in your corner, that is.
If you’re a homeowner in the Northeast Ohio area, Green Impressions can help bring your vision for a paver patio to life. To learn more about the products we use and our installation process, visit the patio pavers section of our website.