Get matched with top paving pros in Eldridge, IA

It is possible to DIY complete hardscaping projects, but in most cases, hiring a professional is best to get the job done correctly. Hardscaping—including installing patios, decks, retaining walls, walkways, and water features—is challenging and time-consuming, so the money you spend on a professional is typically worth it. Not only will the quality be better, but you could avoid problems that come along with a lack of hardscaping experience, like drainage issues that can lead to costly foundation damage and leaks in your home.

Cobblestone driveways can take a major hit on anyone's bank account, begging the question of whether it's worth it to build a cobblestone driveway. Some homeowners might prefer more affordable driveway materials like concrete or pavers, which can give a similar appearance to cobblestone without the high price tag.

Paving your driveway costs between $2,500 and $6,600, to put that in perspective. But for others, there’s nothing quite like the timeless look of cobblestone driveways.

To adhere pavers to concrete, you can use either mortar or a concrete-specific adhesive. For border pavers, a polyurethane-based adhesive is a good choice as it expands and contracts with temperature changes, keeping them firmly in place. For the non-border pavers, polymeric sand is used between the joints to prevent shifting. In most cases, it is also recommended to lay a permeable sand layer below the pavers to ensure proper stability and drainage. Before starting, always take the proper preparatory steps for a professional result.

Decomposed granite and caliche can both harden into a solid surface using a plate compactor. However, due to decomposed granite’s fine particles, it’s not suitable for driveway surfaces. Some homeowners use pea gravel mixed with a gravel-binding resin to bind the loose stones and create a solid surface that won’t shift like loose gravel.