Get matched with top pavers and hardscaping pros in Homer, IL

Standard paver sizes that measure 2 3/8 inches are appropriate for placing over concrete. However, always make sure you are not making the area too thick for daily use. A large step between your lawn and the patio can be a tripping hazard, and you need to be able to open and close all doors that swing over the top of the installation.

While it may be less expensive initially to lay concrete vs. pavers, the long-term expenses that come with repairing concrete may prove to be less cost-friendly than simply replacing a few damaged pavers. On top of that, stamped concrete may only last for 25 years compared to pavers, which can last over 50 years.

You can walk on newly sealed pavers as long as they’ve had enough time to dry and cure—typically after 24 hours for patios and walkways. Even so, don’t rush it. Humidity, temperature, and the type of sealant you use can stretch that window up to 72 hours. Rushing it can leave footprints or even damage the finish, especially if the surface hasn’t fully hardened. For driveways, wait at least three full days before parking or driving over them. Always check your sealant label for the most accurate timeline, since not all products cure the same way.

Professional installers often include a deep layer of crushed gravel under permeable pavers to allow more runoff to soak through into the soil below. Many installations will include multiple layers of gravel, with coarser aggregate at the base and finer aggregate that sits on top of that bottom layer. Above the gravel, you’ll often find coarse sand that helps reduce paver shifting over time. Some permeable paver designs include a water collection system set into the gravel layer to route runoff to a safe area for disposal.