Hardscape & Paver Sizing
Concrete Paver Calculator
Calculate the exact count of interlocking pavers, cutting waste buffer, 1-inch bedding sand, and 4-inch crushed gravel sub-base needed for patios, walkways, or driveways.
How to Install Concrete Pavers for NYC Climates
Interlocking concrete pavers offer an elegant hardscape option for patios and walkways. However, New York City’s freeze-thaw cycles require meticulous base preparation to prevent uneven settling or weed infestation:
The 4-Layer Paver System
- Compacted Sub-Grade Soil: Excavated and mechanically compacted with a vibratory plate compactor. A woven geotextile fabric should be laid to separate native soil from the base aggregate.
- Crushed Aggregate Sub-Base (4 to 6 inches): Compacted dense-graded crushed stone (Item 4 or 3/4" minus). Provides foundational load distribution and drainage.
- Coarse Bedding Sand (1 inch uniform): Clean, washed concrete sand (ASTM C33) screeded smoothly to an exact 1-inch thickness. Never use fine mason sand or stone dust, as they trap water and liquefy in heavy rains.
- Edge Restraints & Polymeric Sand: Heavy-duty PVC or concrete border edge restraints anchored with 10-inch steel spikes prevent outer pavers from creeping. Sweeping polymeric sand into the joints and misting activates the binder, locking pavers into place and blocking weeds and ants.