We Build Beautiful Paver Patios

What Type Of Paver Landscaping Project Did You Have In Mind?

• Do you have an existing paver patio or pool deck you'd like to have rebuilt or changed?
• Are you finally ready to design and build that beautiful new outdoor living space?
• Do you like the look of pavers and want to incorporate them into your landscape?
• Do you want to install a permeable paver driveway?
• Do you want to create some walkways or pathways to wind throughout your landscape?

Paver Patio Installation and Construction

• Paver patio installations
• Paver walkways and pathways
• Paver pool deck installations
• Paver driveway installations
• Outdoor cooking area construction

Preparing The Area For Your New Brick Or Paver Installation

Preparation is a huge (arguably the most important) part in building a great looking, long lasting paver patio.  This is especially important in a state like Montana where we have cold winters as frost heave is a problem that has wrecked many paver patios.

If the groundwork isn't completed properly before installing the pavers you're going to be unhappy with the results after a couple short winters.

At Big Sky Lawn And Land we take the time to over-engineer our paver patio projects so they can survive many winters.

How Do We Prepare Your Ground For Pavers?

Installing paver patios, driveways, and walkways isn't rocket science but there are some very specific steps and processes that separate the good installations from the poor installations.

Step #1.  The first thing we need to do is measure and mark the area where your pavers will be installed. Using a string line and stakes to mark the perimeter of the area, and spray paint or flags to mark the locations of any corners, curves, or other features.

Step #2.  We will need to remove any existing vegetation or debris from the area so we have a clean slate. We then need to excavate the area to the desired depth for your specific pavers and base materials we'll be using.  This can vary depending on the pavers being used and other factors.

Step #3.  Excavate the area to the desired depth. The depth of the excavation will depend on the thickness of the pavers and the height of any surrounding surfaces, such as a patio or walkway. We need to be sure to allow for the thickness of the base material (6" to 8" in Missoula) and also account for any sand or other materials that will be used to level the surface.

Step #4.  We need to add base materials to the excavated area.  This usually consists of a layer of crushed gravel followed with a later of sand.  The gravel helps to establish solid footing for the pavers and provide drainage, while the sand provides a level surface that easily be adjusted as we install the pavers.  Each layer must be compacted using hand tampers or a machine tamper to prevent future settling.

Step #5.  Proper drainage: Ensuring good drainage is critical for preventing frost heave damage to a patio. We generally slope the patio away from any structures (a drop of 1/8 to 1/4 inch per foot is recommended), and we will install a drainage system or French drain to help direct water away from the patio area when we feel it is required.

Step #6.  We then install any necessary edging. Edging, such as metal or plastic strips, is used to hold the pavers in place and to define the edge of the paver area. Edging is installed around the perimeter of the paver area and is secured with stakes or other fasteners depending on the paver manufacturer.

Step #7.  Install the pavers. We begin at one corner of the paver area and work our way outward, laying the pavers in a pattern that is consistent with your design. We use a rubber mallet to tap the pavers into place, and we use a level to ensure that the pavers are level and even.  We can adjust the base layer as necessary to ensure everything is level.

As you can see, by spending the extra time on site preparation, you're getting a superior installation that will last and look good for many years to come.

How Our Paver Patio Construction Process Works

• We start with our initial consultation and discuss your design ideas and what you'd like to incorporate.
• We determine the surface area of your project. (this is to determine material requirements)
• We take into account any specific challenges your property might pose for our team.
• We consult with you on the specific paver materials you’d like.
• We’ll provide you with an accurate written estimate for the work.

The amount of work required for this type of landscaping project can vary greatly from property to property dependent on many factors. The slope of your property, existing site and soil conditions, drainage, size and scope of the project, the particular materials being used, and your budget will all be considered. We’ll be able to offer you an accurate estimate only after an initial site visit and material consultation.