A driveway is exposed to freeze-thaw cycles, de-icing salt and vehicle loads. Proper preparation underneath the pavers plays an essential role in long-term stability and performance.
Built for Quebec winters
Freeze, thaw and salt: freeze-thaw cycles can cause movement when the foundation is not properly prepared or compacted. De-icing salt can also accelerate wear on some products. We select pavers suited to vehicle use and the conditions of the project.
Vehicle weight: a driveway is not a patio. Excavation depth and base thickness are determined according to soil conditions, drainage, vehicle use and the specific requirements of the site.
Drainage: slope and drainage are planned around the site conditions to direct water away from foundations, the garage and other sensitive areas. Checked before laying, not patched after.
New foundation or existing?
A new, layer-compacted foundation is what the 3-year warranty is built on. If you want to reuse an existing base, we assess it honestly — and tell you what we can’t guarantee in that case.
Edges, cuts and patterns
Edge restraints stabilize the perimeter and stop paver migration. Cuts are saw-made for clean lines; patterns and contrast bands are planned before laying, not improvised.
Installation steps
- 1. Excavation — soil removed to a depth suited to vehicle use
- 2. Base and compaction — crushed stone compacted in layers, slope planned around the site
- 3. Laying and alignment — levelled bedding, placement, precise cuts, edging
- 4. Finishing and joints — polymeric sand, final compaction, cleanup
What affects the price
Pricing depends on factors such as project size, access, soil conditions, required preparation depth, paver selection and additional features. Each project is evaluated according to its actual conditions.
Frequently asked questions
Do interlocking pavers handle snow clearing?
Yes — a properly laid, properly founded surface clears with a shovel or blower just like asphalt. Stable edges protect the borders from shovel hits.
How long does the work take?
Timing varies according to project size, access, preparation work, cuts and site conditions. The expected schedule is outlined in the estimate.
Warranty: The 3-year warranty applies to complete installations built with a new foundation. Repairs, re-levelling and installations over an existing foundation are not covered.