Professionals ensure proper paver patio drainage by establishing a slope of 1/8 to 1/4 inch per foot away from the house or structures during the initial setup. This deliberate pitch is a vital installation factor that guides surface water runoff. For increased efficiency, a specialized, coarse bedding sand is used to allow water to filter through the joints and base, preventing water pooling on the paver walkways surface.

The correct method for installing paver edge restraints is to secure a rigid or flexible border along the entire perimeter after the pavers have been set. This crucial installation process component prevents the lateral movement of the paving stones under the stress of vehicle traffic. The plastic or metal edge restraint should be anchored into the compacted sub-base with long, heavy-duty spikes to lock the paver driveway system in place, completing the initial setup against erosion and shifting.

The best joint material for a new paver patio installation is polymeric sand, which is a specialized mixture of fine sand and polymer additives. This material is swept into the paver joints and activated with water, causing it to harden. This forms a flexible, durable bond that effectively inhibits weed growth, deters insects, and locks the stones together for a stronger, more long-lasting installation.

The final bedding sand layer (typically 1 inch deep) is properly leveled by setting temporary screed rails onto the compacted base and drawing a long, straight board (screed board) across them. This installation process creates a perfectly uniform surface, which is a key initial setup factor to ensure the pavers lie flat. This meticulous screening is essential to avoid humps or depressions that could compromise the smooth, safe finish of the paver patio.