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What do you put under pavers so they don’t move? When installing natural stone pavers, what you put underneath them is just as important as the pavers themselves. A solid foundation keeps your patio, walkway, or driveway from shifting, sinking, or becoming uneven over time. If you’re wondering what goes under pavers to keep them in place, here’s everything you need to know.

1. Start with a Solid Excavation

Before anything is laid down, the area needs to be properly excavated. The depth of the excavation depends on what the space will be used for. For example:

• Pedestrian paths: About 4–6 inches deep

• Driveways or high-traffic areas: 8–12 inches deep

This ensures there’s enough room for the base layers and the pavers themselves.

2. The Base Layer: Crushed Stone or Gravel

This is the most important layer for stability. Use a compacted base of crushed stone or gravel (commonly called road base or Class II base rock). This layer provides drainage and helps distribute weight evenly.

• Thickness: Typically 4–6 inches

• Compaction: Use a plate compactor to compact the base in layers to avoid settling later.

3. The Bedding Layer: Washed Sand or Stone Dust

On top of the compacted base, a thin layer of bedding material helps level the pavers and hold them in place. The two common options are:

• Washed concrete sand: Ideal for flexibility and drainage

• Stone dust (for natural stone): Sometimes preferred when installing natural stone pavers for tighter joints and a more stable setting

• Thickness: Around 1 inch

• Tip: Avoid overcompacting this layer; it should be smooth but not too firm.

4. Natural Stone Pavers

Now comes the main event—laying your natural stone pavers. Fit them closely together, especially with irregular stone shapes, and check for level and alignment as you go.

5. Jointing Material

Once pavers are set, the gaps between them need to be filled to lock everything in place. For natural stone pavers, your options include:

• Polymeric sand: Hardens with water to resist weeds and movement

• Regular sand: Can be swept in but may need more frequent maintenance

• Stone dust: Blends well with natural stone and helps lock joints tightly

6. Edge Restraints

Edge restraints are essential to prevent your pavers from shifting over time. These can be made from concrete, metal, or plastic and are installed along the perimeter of the paver area.

Final Thoughts – What do you put under pavers so they don’t move?

At our company, we believe great results start with great preparation. Choosing high-quality natural stone pavers is only part of the process—laying them over a properly built foundation ensures they stay beautiful and secure for years to come.

Need help selecting the right stone or guidance on installation? Contact us today—we’re happy to help you build something that lasts.

When it comes to outdoor spaces, choosing the right paver can make all the difference—not just in looks, but in long-term care. If you’re looking for something durable, stylish, and easy to maintain, natural stone pavers are hard to beat.

So, what is the best low-maintenance paver? The answer is simple: natural stone.

Why Natural Stone Pavers Are the Best for Low Maintenance

Natural stone pavers—like granite, slate, limestone, and travertine—offer a winning combination of beauty and resilience. Here’s why they’re the go-to option for anyone who wants a long-lasting surface without all the upkeep:

1. Durability That Lasts for Decades

Natural stone is formed by the Earth over millions of years, which means it’s incredibly strong. It can handle heavy foot traffic, fluctuating temperatures, and weather extremes without cracking, shifting, or fading. That means fewer repairs, replacements, and touch-ups over time.

2. Stain-Resistant & Easy to Clean

Unlike manufactured materials, many natural stones are naturally dense and less porous, especially when sealed properly. This makes them resistant to stains, mold, and mildew. A simple sweep and occasional rinse with water is usually all it takes to keep them looking great.

3. No Fading Over Time

Unlike some concrete or manufactured pavers that can fade under constant sun exposure, natural stone retains its color and texture. This means your patio, walkway, or driveway will stay beautiful for years with minimal effort.

4. Low Risk of Weed Growth

Properly installed natural stone pavers, especially when paired with polymeric sand or gravel bases, help block weed growth between joints. That means less time spent pulling weeds or spraying chemicals.

5. Minimal Upkeep, Maximum Curb Appeal

Natural stone’s timeless aesthetic doesn’t require paint, coatings, or artificial finishes to maintain its charm. It naturally weathers beautifully and can even gain character over time.

Best Low-Maintenance Natural Stone Options

• Granite – Extremely hard and scratch-resistant. Perfect for high-traffic areas.

• Slate – Naturally slip-resistant and great for wet climates.

• Travertine – Cool underfoot and ideal for pool decks or patios.

• Limestone – Smooth, consistent texture with a clean, modern look.

Final Thoughts – What is the best low maintenance paver

If you want a beautiful outdoor space without the constant upkeep, natural stone pavers are the smartest investment. Their long life, easy care, and timeless appeal make them the best low-maintenance paver option available.

Looking to upgrade your yard, driveway, or patio? Contact us today or stop by to explore our wide selection of premium natural stone pavers!

When planning a new patio, walkway, or driveway using natural stone pavers, one common question we hear is: “Does water drain between pavers?” The short answer is yes—but the full story depends on the type of installation, materials used, and the condition of your base and joints.

In this post, we’ll explore how water drainage works with pavers, why it’s important, and how to ensure your natural stone paving project stays functional and beautiful for years to come.

How Water Drains Between Pavers

Installers typically place natural stone pavers with small gaps (called joints) between each piece. They often fill these joints with sand, polymeric sand, or gravel—materials that allow water to pass through and help prevent pooling or flooding on the surface.

Here’s how it works:

• Rainwater hits the surface of the pavers

• Water flows into the joints between pavers

• From there, it filters down into the compacted base layer below (usually crushed stone or gravel)

• Excess water continues draining into the soil beneath

Moreover this type of drainage system is often referred to as permeable or semi-permeable, depending on the materials used and how tightly the joints are packed.

Why Drainage Is Important

Proper drainage between pavers isn’t just about preventing puddles—it’s also essential for the long-term health of your hardscape. Without effective drainage:

• Water can pool on the surface, creating slippery, unsightly conditions.

• Moisture can weaken the base, leading to shifting, sinking, or cracking over time.

• Freeze-thaw cycles can cause serious damage in colder climates if water gets trapped under the surface.

By allowing water to drain freely, a well-installed natural stone paver system reduces these risks while also promoting better soil health and reducing runoff.

Tips for Maximizing Drainage

To make sure your paver installation drains properly:

1. Use a proper base layer – A compacted gravel base allows water to flow through easily and prevents settling.

2. Choose jointing material carefully – Polymeric sand can harden and resist erosion, while open-graded gravel joints provide maximum permeability.

3. Maintain joint integrity – Over time, wind and rain may displace joint filler. Refill as needed to preserve function and appearance.

4. Ensure the right slope – Even permeable systems benefit from a gentle slope (1-2%) to guide water away from structures.

Natural Stone Pavers: A Beautiful, Functional Choice – Does water drain between pavers

Natural stone pavers not only bring timeless beauty and durability to outdoor spaces—they also offer excellent water drainage when installed correctly. Whether you’re building a rustic garden path or a modern patio, understanding how water moves through and around your pavers can help you create a space that stands up to the elements with elegance.

Need help choosing the right natural stone for your project? Contact us today to speak with our experts or browse our selection of high-quality pavers designed to elevate your outdoor living space.

What happens if I don’t put anything under pavers? When planning a new patio, walkway, or driveway using natural stone pavers, it’s tempting to cut corners—especially when it comes to what goes under the pavers. After all, the stones look great on their own, right? But skipping the base layers beneath your pavers can lead to serious problems down the road. Here’s what you need to know about why a proper base is crucial—and what can go wrong if you skip it.

1. Shifting and Settling

Without a stable base layer, your pavers are likely to shift, settle unevenly, or even sink over time. This is especially true in areas with heavy rainfall or freeze-thaw cycles. The ground naturally moves, and without a supportive foundation like compacted gravel and sand, your beautiful natural stone installation will become uneven and potentially hazardous.

2. Weed Growth

One of the main reasons for using a base and jointing sand is to prevent weeds from growing between your pavers. If you lay natural stone directly on soil, you’re basically inviting weeds to take over. A proper base creates a barrier that discourages weed growth and keeps your outdoor space looking pristine.

3. Drainage Issues

Natural stone is incredibly durable, but poor drainage can cause big problems. Without a proper sub-base, water may not drain away efficiently. This can lead to pooling on the surface, erosion underneath the pavers, or even damage to nearby structures. A compacted gravel base allows water to flow through and away from your paved area, preserving both function and appearance.

4. Reduced Lifespan

Natural stone pavers are an investment, and they’re built to last—if installed correctly. Without a proper base, you’re significantly reducing the lifespan of your project. What could last decades with minimal maintenance may need costly repairs in just a few years if the foundation isn’t right.

5. Safety Hazards

Uneven pavers are not just an eyesore—they’re a tripping hazard. If your walkway or patio isn’t level due to settling or shifting, it can become dangerous for anyone using the space, especially kids, elderly family members, or guests.

The Bottom Line – What happens if I don’t put anything under pavers?

At Tez Marble, we’re passionate about helping our customers create stunning, long-lasting spaces with natural stone pavers. That’s why we always recommend proper installation—including a strong, stable base layer. It’s not just about looks—it’s about durability, safety, and getting the most out of your investment.

Need help choosing the right materials or have questions about installation? Our team is here to help—contact us today or stop by our showroom to explore our range of premium natural stone pavers.