Landscaping & Design Ideas

When constructing an interlocking concrete pavement, there are some general minimum guidelines that apply to most areas in the U.S.  These guidelines are geared towards regions with freeze-thaw cycles.  In non freeze-thaw regions with sandy, well drained soils, there may be no base requirements for residential and pedestrian paver surfaces.

The thickness of the base is determined by traffic loads, soil strength, subgrade soil drainage and moisture, and climate.  Local standards for base thickness of asphalt pavements can be applied to surfaces constructed with concrete pavers.

In the Cleveland area, the following minimum thickness should be used:

• Sidewalks, patios, and walkways- 4″
• Residential driveways- 10-12″
• Parking lots and residential streets-10-12″ often more

As you can see, different types of applications have different base requirements.  These are generally the minimums for paver projects in our regions, but they can vary due to soil conditions.  It is important for you or your paver installer to know the base requirements for your project.  This will ensure that the job is installed properly and will last for years to come.

Also remember that base depth does not mean excavation depth.  If your patio or walkway requires a four inch compacted base, you will still need to factor in your finished height, and allow space for both your bedding sand and the thickness of the paver.

For example, if your finished height will be even with the existing grade, and you plan to use a paver that is 2 3/8 inches thick, you will be required to excavate approximately seven inches.  If you plan to use a thicker paver, make sure you allow for the additional thickness when you excavate.  Cutting corners in any phase of a paver project will result in the shortened longevity and usefulness of the paved surface.  By spending the time and energy to achieve proper base thickness, you are providing your paver patio or walkway with a key component of its integrity for the life of the pavement.