Southern Ontario winters cycle above and below freezing many times. Water in the ground expands as it freezes, and any weakness in an interlocking installation gets exposed quickly.
The base does the work
Pavers are the visible layer. What keeps them level is the excavated depth and the compacted granular base underneath. Driveways need a deeper base than walkways because they carry vehicle loads.
Compaction in lifts
Base material should be compacted in layers rather than all at once. Compacting a thick layer in a single pass leaves the bottom loose — which shows up later as sinking.
Edge restraint
Without a proper edge, pavers slowly spread outward and joints open up. Edge restraint keeps the field locked together.
Drainage
Surfaces should slope away from the house, and water needs somewhere to go. Pooling water in the base is the fastest route to heaving.
Choosing pavers
- Pick products suited to freeze-thaw and de-icing salt exposure.
- Thicker pavers are better suited to driveways.
- Consider colour-through products if you want chips and wear to stay less visible.
When comparing quotes, ask each contractor how deep they will excavate, what base material they use and how it will be compacted. Clear answers are a good sign.