3 Considerations for Installing Driveway Pavers in Northern MI

1.) Selecting the right product

Other than appearance, which we will discuss next, your focus should be choosing a product that is both durable and strong. Unlike backyard paver patios, driveway pavers have to be able to hold the load of several vehicles, trailers, boats, campers, etc. That weight not only drives over the area but remains on it as a vehicle can be parked for hours or days. Be sure to consult with your landscape designer or the company you select to purchase pavers from to ensure that the product is meant to be driven on, not just walked on.

Driveway pavers are more long-lasting and durable than your typical driveway (solid surface asphalt or concrete). Pavers are much less likely to crack as well, however, if the appropriate base is not set before pavers are installed, you will experience issues with your driveway. The right paver, installed the right way, will not crack or experience the freeze-thaw problem that concrete and asphalt deal with.

2.) Appearance

With thousands of products on the market for driveway pavers, the combinations and designs for your driveway are endless. We recommend selecting a product that compliments your home, not necessarily one that outshines it. Our clients that have selected pavers as an option for their driveway usually take their surroundings into consideration. Some who are near the shoreline select a product with a rougher finish and coloration similar to the sand on their beach. Others choose to combine a solid surface like asphalt along with a paver feature.

Pavers options vary in shape, size, and color, so your standard ‘brick-like paver is no longer your only option. From elegant to rustic, a landscape designer can provide you with several options that will fit your needs. Check out our learning center to view the products guides for the materials we love and recommend

3.) Don’t forget about winter

As anyone who has visited Northern Michigan in the winter knows, snow removal is a necessity. Unfortunately, nearly all pavers are subject to damage from snowplows. A blade cover can be installed on the plow to cause less damage, but it does not prevent damage. If your budget allows, the best option to manage snow is to install a driveway heating system. Selecting a permeable paver will allow the system to melt the snow and for the water to seep into the ground instead of creating icy wet patches.

It is also important to consider that some pavers do not do well with icemelter or rock salt application. Most products discourage the use of de-icer use directly onto the product itself. Calcium and sodium chloride products tend be safer for pavers than magnesium chloride, but this can depend on the product. Consult the professionals who installed your product or check out the product websites for guides on what is safe for your specific paver or stone.

Winter issues are certainly the more challenging aspect of driveway pavers, however, it is important to remember that they need very little maintenance when compared to a solid surface like concrete or asphalt and are much more durable and long-lasting in general.