Chicago Illinois

Ask to see recent and past work pictures, check their reviews from prior customers, ask for referrals, and check that they are licensed, bonded, and insured.

Regarding pavers, have the contractor you chose to provide a paver sample so you can view the color, shape, and thickness. Belgard pavers are excellent quality pavers.

The cost varies depending on accessibility, size, and materials. The rule of thumb is that most of these projects are bid by a cost per square foot. We recommend getting at least 3-5 estimates for the contractor you feel confident in.

Pavers are manufactured in a controlled environment at the plant, which allows the manufacturer to control the PSI (pounds per square inch). Paver PSI ranges for 8,000lbs to 11,000lbs psi vs. concrete which is poured at approximately 3500 PSI on average. Pavers are a stronger product, are prone to crack less, and are more durable. One of the main reasons to install pavers vs. concrete is that concrete can produce hairline cracks often and very quickly, and the options are limited as far as repairs. With Pavers, if there’s an issue, the pavers can be replaced with ease and at a minimal cost.

The answer is Yes. Most real estate professionals will tell you that pavers will increase the value of your home vs. concrete, grass, or sod. Pavers and hardscape give your home an elegant look, and nicer curb appeal and last for many years, in turn Increasing your home’s value and helping your home sell quicker.

Hardscaprs website has a listing of professional paver contractors that are specifically trained to install pavers and hardscape. Ask to see their recently completed projects, check their reviews, ask for referrals, and ask to see pictures of their work.

Paver patios have less weight and traffic applied to them vs. a driveway. The rule of thumb is when a paver patio is installed, the base is removed up to 4-5 inches in depth. ¾ minus crush rock is added, then the plate compacted. A paver driveway installation because of the weight of vehicles and usage, the base is removed up to 7-8 inches. ¾ minus crush rock is added and plated compacted. In some cases, a woven fabric material is placed underneath the ¾ minus crush rock before compaction is performed. This is needed if the ground is less solid.

Yes. Most professional paver installation contractors can work off architectural drawings and layouts. Many of these designs will layout the area for the pavers, the location of any retaining walls that may be needed, outdoor lighting locations, fire pits, and other items the homeowner is looking to have installed. We call these outdoor living designs and drawings.

This can sometimes be an issue. The best way to tackle this is to discuss all the potential issues, and what you’re specifically looking for and discuss any issues up front that may arise. Ask the contractor to provide a few referrals you can call and discuss with them how that particular contractor dealt with such issues. Have all change orders or additions be quoted and laid out in writing before any additional work outside of the original contract is performed. Ask lots of questions and have the contractor point out any issues they see at the time of the first visit. As you have other contractors come out to give you estimates, see if they state anything different or bring something up the previous contractor did not mention. Best to always have 3-4 contractors bid on your project.

Hardscaprs website has qualified retaining wall contractors our customers can review. Ask the contractor how long they have been building retaining walls. Ask to see some of their work. Ask them what materials they prefer using and ask for some referrals. Ask for pictures of their work and if they have had issues with any of their walls in the past.