Paver Walkways & Driveways

Why Pavers Beat Concrete Every Time

When you need a new driveway or walkway, you face a choice between plain concrete and pavers. While concrete might seem cheaper upfront, pavers deliver better value over the long term. They look better, last longer, and give you options that concrete cannot match.

Concrete cracks. It is not a question of if, but when. Temperature changes, ground movement, and tree roots all cause concrete to crack and break apart. Once that happens, your options are limited. Patching looks terrible, and complete replacement is expensive. Pavers, on the other hand, flex with ground movement. If one does crack or stain, you simply replace that single paver. The repair is invisible and costs almost nothing.

Here in McAllen, TX, appearance matters. Your driveway and walkways are major elements of your curb appeal. They set the tone before anyone even gets to your front door. Pavers come in countless colors, shapes, and patterns. You can create unique designs, add borders, or incorporate multiple colors. This level of customization makes your property stand out and increases its value.

Pavers also perform better in our climate. They drain water quickly through the joints, reducing puddles and runoff. They do not show oil stains as obviously as concrete. If you ever need to access underground utilities, pavers can be lifted and replaced without leaving a permanent scar like a concrete cut would.

How We Build Paver Driveways and Walkways

A paver installation is only as good as the foundation underneath. We do not cut corners on base preparation because we know that is what determines whether your pavers look great in 5 years or start sinking and shifting. The process takes time, but it is time well spent.

Our Installation Steps

• Mark out the exact area and establish proper slope for drainage
• Excavate to the correct depth, typically 8 to 12 inches for driveways
• Install edge restraints to keep pavers from spreading over time
• Add and compact a crushed stone base in layers
• Spread and level a layer of bedding sand
• Place pavers in your chosen pattern, cutting edge pieces as needed
• Sweep polymeric sand into joints and activate with water
• Clean surface and apply sealer for protection and color enhancement

The base is critical. We use crushed angular stone rather than round gravel because it compacts better and locks together. We add it in layers, compacting each layer with a heavy plate compactor. This creates a rock-solid foundation that will not settle. For driveways that carry vehicle weight, we go deeper and use more aggregate than for walkways.

Proper slope matters too. Water must drain away from your home and garage. We grade everything carefully so water flows to the street or yard rather than pooling on the surface or running toward your foundation. This protects both your pavers and your home from water damage.

Design Patterns and Material Choices

The pattern you choose affects both appearance and performance. Running bond, where pavers offset like bricks in a wall, is popular for walkways. Herringbone creates a tight interlocking pattern that is ideal for driveways because it resists shifting under tire movement. Basketweave gives a traditional look with pairs of pavers alternating direction. Random patterns work well with multi-sized pavers for a more natural appearance.

Color selection sets the mood. Warm tones like tan, brown, and red create an inviting, traditional feel. Cool grays and charcoals look modern and sophisticated. You can blend multiple colors for a more natural, varied appearance or stick with a single color for clean simplicity. We bring samples to your property so you can see how they look in your actual setting.

Size and shape matter too. Standard rectangular pavers are economical and versatile. Large format pavers create a modern look with fewer joints. Circular patterns work beautifully for walkways and small courts. You can also combine different sizes and shapes for custom designs that reflect your personal style.

Many homeowners extend paver work beyond the driveway and main walkways. Add a paver patio that matches your walkway. Create a path to your side gate or around to the backyard. Include a sitting area off the driveway for trash cans or bikes. When you use the same pavers throughout, everything ties together visually and adds cohesive appeal to your entire property.

Maintaining Your Paver Investment

Pavers require minimal maintenance to stay looking great. Sweep them regularly to prevent dirt buildup. Rinse with a garden hose or pressure washer when they need a deeper clean. The polymeric sand in the joints resists weeds and ants, but if a few weeds do appear, pull them and add more sand.

Every 2 to 3 years, consider resealing your pavers. The sealer protects against stains, enhances the colors, and makes cleaning easier. It also helps prevent the sand from washing out of the joints. The process is simple and makes a noticeable difference in appearance. Your pavers will look rich and vibrant rather than faded and dull.

If a paver does crack or stain badly, replacement is easy. We lift out the damaged paver, drop in a new one, and sweep sand into the joints. The repair blends seamlessly with the surrounding area. Try doing that with a cracked concrete driveway. You would be looking at an obvious patch or complete replacement.

Properly installed pavers last 25 to 50 years. They do not deteriorate like asphalt or crack like concrete. The colors are baked into the pavers, so they do not fade significantly over time. When you factor in the minimal maintenance, lack of major repairs, and long lifespan, pavers are actually the most cost-effective option. Plus, they add significant value to your property, which matters if you ever sell. Buyers love the look of quality paver work, and real estate agents know it helps homes sell faster and for more money.

Frequently Asked Questions