Paver Walkways & Driveways
Create stunning pathways and durable driveways that enhance your property's beauty and function.
(805) 261-5871
Why Pavers Beat Concrete Every Time
Plain concrete might seem like the cheaper option at first. But pavers actually give you better value over time. Unlike poured concrete that cracks and stains, individual pavers can be replaced if damaged. They don't crack like concrete slabs. They look better from day one and actually improve your property value.
At SV Simi Valley Masonry, we've installed paver walkways and driveways throughout Simi Valley for over a decade. We know which products hold up to vehicle traffic and which patterns work best for different applications. Your driveway or walkway isn't just functional. It's one of the first things people see when they visit your home.
Pavers also give you design flexibility concrete can't match. You can create patterns, mix colors, add borders, and even incorporate lighting. If you ever need to access utilities underneath, we can remove and replace pavers without leaving obvious patches like you'd see with concrete repairs.
Key Advantages of Paver Installation
- •Individual pavers can be replaced if damaged
- •No cracking problems like poured concrete
- •Better drainage between pavers prevents pooling
- •Adds significant curb appeal and resale value
- •Endless design options for custom looks
- •Ready to use immediately after installation
Walkways and Driveways: Different Requirements
While both use similar materials, driveways and walkways have different structural needs. Understanding these differences helps us build each one correctly.
Walkway Installation
Walkways handle foot traffic only, so they don't need the heavy-duty base that driveways require. But they still need proper foundation work. We excavate to the right depth for your soil conditions. We install a compacted gravel base. We add edge restraints to prevent spreading over time.
Design flexibility is a big advantage with walkways. You can use smaller pavers, create curves, or mix different colors and textures. We often coordinate walkway design with patio installations for a cohesive outdoor living space. Popular patterns include herringbone, basket weave, and running bond.
Driveway Installation
Driveways take serious abuse from vehicles. They need thicker pavers and a more substantial base. We typically use pavers at least 2.5 inches thick for driveways. The base preparation is more extensive too. We install deeper gravel layers and compact them thoroughly. Proper slope for drainage is critical since water can damage the base over time.
For driveways, we recommend proven patterns that distribute weight effectively. Herringbone is excellent for high-traffic areas because it locks pavers together. Running bond works well too and costs less to install. We help you choose patterns that balance appearance with performance and budget.
Material Selection
You have many paver options. Concrete pavers are affordable and come in countless colors and styles. They're strong enough for any application. Clay brick pavers offer classic beauty and incredible durability. Natural stone pavers provide unique character but cost more. We can show you samples and explain the pros and cons of each option for your specific project.
Our Professional Installation Process
Proper installation makes all the difference between pavers that last decades and ones that fail in a few years. Here's how we ensure quality results.
Site Evaluation and Planning
We start by evaluating your property. We check soil conditions, existing drainage patterns, and any underground utilities. We measure carefully and discuss your design preferences. We explain what's realistic for your site and budget. If we spot potential problems like poor drainage or unstable soil, we address them before starting installation.
Excavation and Base Preparation
We excavate to the proper depth based on whether we're building a walkway or driveway. We ensure proper slope for water runoff. We install geotextile fabric if your soil needs stabilization. Then we add gravel base material in layers, compacting each layer separately. This creates the stable foundation your pavers need.
We install edge restraints to hold everything in place. These are critical but often skipped by less experienced installers. Without them, pavers gradually spread apart and lose their pattern over time. We can also coordinate your paver work with other projects like retaining wall construction if needed.
Paver Installation
We add a layer of bedding sand, screed it to precise levels, and begin laying pavers. We work from one edge and maintain consistent spacing. We check alignment and levels constantly. For driveways, we pay special attention to areas where vehicles turn, as these experience the most stress. We cut pavers as needed to fit around obstacles and create clean edges.
Finishing and Sealing
After all pavers are laid, we compact them into the bedding sand with a plate compactor. We sweep polymeric sand into the joints and compact again. This sand hardens when wet, locking pavers together and preventing weed growth. We can apply sealant to protect pavers from stains and make cleaning easier. The surface is ready to use immediately.