Informational

What is the best base for pavers? When investing in natural stone pavers, whether for a patio, walkway, driveway, or poolside, one of the most important—but often overlooked—factors for long-term success is the base beneath them. Choosing the right base is essential to ensure your pavers stay beautiful, level, and structurally sound for years to come.

So, what is the best base for pavers? Let’s explore the top options, how they compare, and why proper installation makes all the difference.

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Why the Base Matters

The base is the foundation of your entire project. It:

• Supports the weight of the pavers and any loads above them (like foot traffic or vehicles).

• Prevents shifting and settling.

• Provides drainage to reduce water-related damage.

• Helps keep weeds and erosion at bay.

Without a strong, well-prepared base, even the most beautiful natural stone pavers can crack, sink, or become uneven over time.

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Best Base Options for Natural Stone Pavers

1. Crushed Stone Base (Also Called Dense Grade Aggregate or Crusher Run)

Best for: Most residential and commercial applications

This is the most commonly recommended base material. Crushed stone, often made of limestone or granite, compacts well and provides excellent drainage. It’s a mix of stone dust and larger particles, typically 3/4″ and smaller.

Pros:

• Excellent load-bearing capacity

• Promotes proper drainage

• Easy to level and compact

Installation Tip: Compact the base in 2–4 inch layers using a plate compactor for best results. A depth of 4–6 inches is typical for patios and walkways, and 8–12 inches for driveways.

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2. Gravel Base

Best for: Areas with heavy water runoff or softer soil

Gravel (angular, not rounded) can be used similarly to crushed stone but offers better drainage in wet areas. However, it may shift more easily if not compacted properly.

Pros:

• Superior drainage

• Readily available

Cons:

• May require a stabilizing layer or geotextile fabric to prevent shifting

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3. Sand Layer (as a Bedding Layer, Not a Base)

Best for: Final leveling under natural stone pavers

Sand is not a substitute for a proper base—but it plays a crucial role in the final layer. A 1-inch layer of bedding sand (typically coarse concrete sand) is spread over the compacted base to help settle the pavers evenly.

Avoid using fine play sand, as it doesn’t compact well and can cause shifting.

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4. Permeable Base (Open-Graded Aggregate)

Best for: Eco-friendly installations, permeable patios, or areas with drainage concerns

This base uses clean, angular stone (no stone dust or fines) to allow water to drain straight through. Often paired with permeable natural stone pavers.

Pros:

• Excellent drainage

• Reduces runoff and erosion

• Ideal for sustainable landscapes

Cons:

• Requires more precise installation and knowledge of water management

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Final Thoughts: What’s Best Depends on Your Project

For most standard installations, a crushed stone base topped with a sand bedding layer is the ideal choice. It offers a strong, stable, and long-lasting foundation for your natural stone pavers.

However, every project is unique. Soil type, slope, climate, and intended use (e.g., foot traffic vs. vehicle load) all play a role in selecting the best base.

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Need Expert Advice or Premium Stone Pavers? – What is the best base for pavers?

At Tez Marble, we specialize in high-quality natural stone pavers and provide guidance every step of the way—from selecting materials to recommending installation best practices. Whether you’re a contractor or a homeowner, we’re here to help you build a surface that’s both stunning and durable.

📞 Contact us today to get started or visit our showroom to see our full range of natural stone options.

Natural stone pavers bring timeless beauty and organic charm to any outdoor space—from patios and pathways to pool surrounds and garden walkways. But once your stone pavers are set in place, there’s one crucial question every DIYer or landscaper faces: What do you put between natural stone pavers?

The material you choose for the joints doesn’t just affect the look of your project—it also plays a major role in durability, drainage, and weed control. Here’s a guide to help you decide which joint material best suits your space, style, and maintenance preferences.

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1. Polymeric Sand

Best for: Tight joints and long-term durability

Polymeric sand is a popular modern option. It’s a mix of fine sand and special additives (like polymers) that harden when moistened. Once applied and activated with water, it locks the pavers in place, discourages weed growth, and reduces insect activity.

Pros:

• Resists weed and ant infestation

• Won’t wash out easily

• Creates a semi-permanent bond

Cons:

• Less suitable for wider gaps

• Can stain stones if not installed carefully

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2. Loose Sand or Decomposed Granite (DG)

Best for: Informal or rustic designs

Loose joint materials like coarse sand, pea gravel, or decomposed granite allow for natural movement and drainage. They’re great for garden paths or patios where a more relaxed, natural look is desired.

Pros:

• Easy to install and refill

• Allows for excellent drainage

• Ideal for irregularly shaped stones

Cons:

• Can wash or blow away over time

• Requires periodic replenishing

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3. Gravel or Crushed Rock

Best for: High-drainage areas

Small gravel or crushed stone can be used between pavers, especially when you want a strong, permeable surface. It’s common in modern, minimalist, or xeriscape designs.

Pros:

• Excellent for water runoff

• Adds texture and contrast

• Low-maintenance

Cons:

• Can shift or scatter

• Might be uncomfortable for bare feet

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4. Ground Cover Plants

Best for: Garden paths and eco-friendly spaces

Using low-growing plants like creeping thyme, dwarf mondo grass, or Irish moss between natural stone pavers adds a lush, living touch. It’s perfect for spaces that blend hardscape with softscape elements.

Pros:

• Visually appealing and eco-friendly

• Helps cool the surface

• Attracts pollinators

Cons:

• Requires watering and trimming

• Not suitable for high-traffic areas

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5. Mortar or Concrete

Best for: Permanent, high-traffic installations

For a solid, no-maintenance joint, mortar or concrete can be applied between pavers. This method is often used in formal patios, pool decks, and public spaces.

Pros:

• Provides a clean, polished look

• Very stable and long-lasting

Cons:

• Not permeable—may cause drainage issues

• Cracks can develop over time

• Labor-intensive to install

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Final Thoughts – What do you put between natural stone pavers?

When it comes to what goes between natural stone pavers, the “right” choice depends on your project’s goals—whether you want something soft and green, hard and durable, or easy and low-maintenance. Take time to consider the climate, traffic levels, and aesthetic you want to achieve. With the right joint filler, your stone pavers will stay beautiful and functional for years to come.

What is the proper spacing for pavers? Natural stone pavers bring timeless beauty and unique character to any outdoor space. Whether you’re laying a flagstone patio or creating a rustic garden path, one of the most important design considerations is paver spacing. Unlike manufactured pavers, natural stone has irregular edges and shapes, making proper spacing both a functional and aesthetic decision.

Why Spacing Matters for Natural Stone Pavers

Natural stone doesn’t come in perfect shapes and sizes, which means spacing is essential to:

• Accommodate irregular edges

• Allow for movement and drainage

• Enhance the rustic, organic look

• Prevent cracking or chipping due to tight placement

Recommended Spacing for Natural Stone Pavers

For most applications, the ideal spacing for natural stone pavers is between 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch (6 mm to 13 mm). However, in some decorative or loosely laid pathways, gaps can be even wider—up to an inch or more—to create a more rugged, garden-style appearance.

Common Fill Options for Gaps

How you fill the space between stones can affect both the look and the longevity of your project:

• Polymeric Sand: Provides a firm, weed-resistant joint while locking the stones in place.

• Gravel or Crushed Stone: A great option for larger gaps, adding contrast and promoting drainage.

• Ground Cover Plants: For a natural, lush look, use creeping thyme, moss, or other hardy plants between stones.

• Decomposed Granite or Sand: A more flexible, natural-looking fill ideal for garden paths.

Tips for Installing Natural Stone Pavers with the Right Spacing

• Dry-lay your stones first: This lets you plan out spacing and alignment before committing.

• Use a consistent gap range: While some variation is normal with irregular shapes, try to maintain a consistent average gap for a cleaner result.

• Level carefully: Uneven spacing can lead to tripping hazards. Use a rubber mallet and leveling tools to get stones even with each other.

• Plan for drainage: Wider gaps can help water flow through, reducing puddling and erosion.

Final Thoughts – What is the proper spacing for pavers?

Natural stone pavers offer unmatched beauty, but getting the spacing right is key to a successful installation. Aim for a 1/4 to 1/2 inch gap, choose the right filler, and take your time with layout and leveling. The result? A durable, elegant surface that blends seamlessly into the natural landscape.

Do you need to seal natural stone pavers? Natural stone pavers bring timeless beauty and durability to outdoor spaces. Whether you’re installing a patio, walkway, or pool surround, stone options like travertine, limestone, granite, and slate can elevate your landscape. But a common question among homeowners and contractors alike is: do you need to seal natural stone pavers?

The Short Answer: It Depends

Sealing natural stone pavers isn’t strictly necessary in every case—but it’s often highly recommended. Here’s why.

Why Seal Natural Stone Pavers?

1. Protection from Stains

Natural stone is porous, meaning it can absorb liquids like wine, oil, or even rainwater. Over time, this can lead to staining and discoloration—especially in high-traffic or high-risk areas (like near grills or around pools). A quality sealer creates a protective barrier against spills and grime.

2. Weather Resistance

Stone can degrade over time due to exposure to the elements. UV rays can cause fading, while freeze-thaw cycles may lead to cracking in some types of stone. Sealing helps shield the surface from these natural stresses.

3. Enhanced Color and Appearance

Some sealers enhance the natural color and texture of the stone, giving it a “wet look” or richer tone that many people find attractive. This is optional, but a big plus for many.

4. Easier Maintenance

Sealed surfaces are smoother and less likely to trap dirt, moss, or mold. This makes cleaning quicker and helps maintain a fresh, clean appearance year-round.

When You Might Skip Sealing

There are situations where sealing may not be essential:

• Low-traffic areas: In spots that see little foot traffic or exposure to elements, sealing might not be urgent.

• Dense, non-porous stones: Some stones (like certain granites or bluestones) are naturally dense and less absorbent, so they may not benefit as much from sealing.

• Aged or weathered look: If you prefer a more rustic, aged appearance, you might choose to let the stone naturally patina over time.

How Often Should You Reseal?

Most sealers need to be reapplied every 2 to 5 years, depending on the product and exposure. High-traffic or harsh environments might require more frequent applications.

Choosing the Right Sealer

There are two main types of sealers:

• Penetrating (impregnating) sealers: Soak into the stone and protect from within without changing the look.

• Topical sealers: Sit on the surface, often adding a sheen or gloss but may require more upkeep.

Make sure to choose a sealer appropriate for the type of stone and the intended use (e.g., slip resistance near pools).

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Final Thoughts – Do you need to seal natural stone pavers

While sealing natural stone pavers isn’t always mandatory, it’s a wise investment in most cases. It protects your outdoor space, prolongs the stone’s life, and keeps your hardscaping looking its best. If you’re unsure, consult with a stone professional or installer to evaluate your specific setup and decide what’s best for your home.