Planning a paved landscaping project

Are you considering a paved landscaping project? Pavers are an unbeatable way to add elegance and sophistication to your property. As always, the key to success is good planning.

PDF Guide (400 K)
Plant selector
Project guide service
Soil calculator
Seed calculator
Related Projects
Related Tips
Page 1/1
Planning your project
Selecting materials
Building paved patios, walls and walkways
Maintenance
Current trends

Planning your project

The very first step is to draw a plan of your front and back yards. Using your property survey, sketch a plan showing:
  • Sunlight exposure, to help you decide where to plant flowers and shrubs.
  • Municipal easements (electricity, water mains, telephone).
  • The position of your house and all doors and windows. Also show the position of fixed elements such as hedges, fences, lawn and trees.
  • The location of the driveway and the main entrance access.
  • The position of the shed and other structures such as patio, play area, eating area and pool. Reserve shaded areas of the yard for the shed, garbage containers, etc.

Next, draw to scale all the areas you wish to pave. Note down the measurements that will help you calculate the quantities of materials needed. If you are unsure or would like assistance, don’t hesitate to ask at your store.

For more information on planning:
Landscaping with paving blocks (PDF)
Carrying out an outdoor design project (PDF)

Selecting materials

Pavers come in many styles, shapes and sizes. Look at the exterior of your home as well as that of neighbouring properties in order to choose a style that blends in well with the surroundings.
Paving slabs
If you are planning to build a patio floor, you might opt for square or rectangular paving slabs, or slabs that mimic natural stone. The wide variety of colours and textures available in these high-quality, affordable products makes it possible to create fabulous effects.
Paving blocks
Uniform (identical-sized) paving blocks are available in a vast array of shapes and colours. Paving blocks allow you to make plain, straight-edged designs as well as more elaborate geometric patterns. More than one colour may be used to enhance your chosen layout.

Interlocking paving blocks are sets of blocks of various sizes which fit in with one another to create a natural, almost random-looking arrangement.
Natural stone
Natural stone is the ideal choice for a rustic landscape design. Silica, granite and slate, whether rough, cut or sawn, are the most commonly used stones for landscaping projects. The thinnest stones, usually between ¾" and 2" thick, are usually used for patios and walkways. Thicker pavers, anywhere between 4" and 10" thick, are recommended for steps. Natural stone is a worthwhile investment because the results will last for years. If your budget does not stretch to using natural stone everywhere, stepping stones and decorative gravel can be an attractive alternative for pathways.

White or coloured pebbles, river stones and decorative gravel are often used along walkways and around the outside of the house. Sold in backs or in bulk, these stones can be smooth or rough and come in various sizes, depending on the desired effect. Teamed up with plants or larger natural stones, they are perfect for creating a contemporary look and are set to make a strong comeback this year.
Wall blocks
Some types of paving blocks are designed especially for building low retaining walls. Assembly techniques vary according to the manufacturer. Depending on the anchoring method, these walls can be built to a height of 24", 48" or 60". Some types of blocks allow you to create curved or straight lines or a combination of both, depending on how the blocks are placed.
Caps and borders
Depending on the model of wall blocks you choose, you may also need to purchase cap blocks, which are placed along the top of the wall to give it a neat, finished look.

Concrete borders are also available. They are not usually a necessity, but they can add an attractive finishing touch to a landscaping feature by highlighting the contours of a paved area.

To learn more about the materials available:
Paving slabs, pavers and retaining walls

Building paved patios, walls and walkways

Your paved landscaping project will be much easier to carry out if you prepare properly. Remember that for retaining walls, you will need to dig a trench of 11" to 15" deep, lay a geotextile membrane along the bottom, cover the membrane with gravel and compact the gravel with a vibrating plate. The same principle applies when building walkways and patios. This essential step gives your construction a solid foundation and ensures that it will last for years.

Once you have built good foundations, you should now find it easy to assemble your wall, patio or walkway. Helpful hint: always glue cap blocks and steps to prevent them moving or becoming dislodged. Also glue any blocks that are liable to be knocked or displaced due to their location.

To find out more about building with pavers:
Build a concrete paver patio/sidewalk
Build a concrete retaining wall
Decorative cement-block wall - global village style

Maintenance

The paving blocks sold at your renovation centre are designed to withstand the rigours of the Canadian climate. Applying a sealing product will not extend the life of your new paved area but it will make it easier to clean the stones and prevent staining.

For more information on maintenance:
Protect and clean your paving stone driveway

Current trends

Today’s trends lean towards a look that is natural, handcrafted, unique. Irregular-shaped pavers, reminiscent of aged cut stone, are all the rage. Earthy shades of grey, sandstone, brown and beige are very popular and mimic the look of genuine stone.

Shapes and colours can be combined to create rosettes and elaborate patterns, both on walkways and on patio floors.

Square or rectangular tiles have a more formal allure which makes them ideal for a contemporary decor. They can be matched up to form sleek, linear designs or harmonious symmetrical patterns. Slate grey, granite, beige, sandstone or greige… Paving slabs are now available in a vast array of up-to-date colours and styles.
With so many possible combinations, creating an exclusive and enchanting paved decor has never been easier. With the right preparation and carefully chosen materials, you can achieve stunning results that will increase the value of your property and look superb for years to come.
Page 1/1