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You can put pavers over concrete following a similar procedure as above, but there are a few additional risks you need to be aware of—like stability, drainage, and the patio’s thickness. Once you lay a paver patio over concrete, it will be nearly impossible to treat any issues that your concrete may face, like cracks or water pooling. So while you may save some time and money on concrete removal and site prep, it may cost you more in the long run.

Pea gravel can be used as a base for a paver patio, but it’s not the preferred choice. Because it is small and round, pea gravel moves much more easily than other base options, like crushed stone, so it won’t keep your pavers in place properly. 

If you do opt for pea gravel, compact it well and use an additional binding agent (like stone dust) to keep everything from shifting.

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.

A gravel driveway can be driven on instantly. While pavers don't technically need to cure, you'll typically be told by a contractor to wait at least 24 hours before driving on any stones or bricks after they've been set. While an asphalt driveway does take up to 72 hours to cure, this is far shorter than the week required for concrete driveways.