How soon can you walk on pavers after installation?
18 Jul
Uncategorized

How soon can you walk on pavers after installation?

How Soon Can You Walk on Natural Stone Pavers After Installation?

🛠️ Step 1: Base & Bedding – The Foundation Phase

  • Compact your base: After laying the gravel sub-base, allow 24–48 hours for compaction and stabilization—weather and soil type may affect this. 

  • Set the bedding sand and stones: Once set, let the stone bedding settle with gentle tool vibration and tamping for another 24–48 hours.

Bottom line: ~2–4 days before anything heavy makes contact.

🚶 Step 2: First Footsteps – Light Usage

After the bedding sand has cured (typically within 2 days), light foot traffic—think careful walking without dragging items—is usually safe.

💤 Step 3: Moderate Use – Curing Continues

From day 3 to 7, you can gradually increase usage—walking more, stepping up furniture placement. But avoid running, heavy loads, or dragging equipment until stronger adhesion is confirmed. 

🔒 Step 4: Final Cure – Wait for Stability

By 28 days, both the stones and bedding material are fully set, paving the way for heavy usage like furniture setups, grills, or vehicle traffic. This timeline ensures optimal strength and longevity. 

✅ Quick Reference Table

Time After Installation Safe Usage Type Notes
0–2 Days No traffic Base and bedding settling
2–7 Days Light to moderate Walk; no heavy loads
8–28 Days Increased usage Gentle load placement
28+ Days Full usage Furniture, vehicles, heavy equipment

 

🌤️ Why These Timeframes Matter

  • Foundation strength: A well-compacted base holds stones securely, preventing shifting or settling issues.

  • Sand joint stability: Joint sand needs time to harden; early foot traffic can compromise this.

  • Longevity: Rushing use may cause uneven stones, joint erosion, or premature wear.

📝 Pro Tips for Best Results

  1. Weather-smart installation

    • Dry conditions boost curing; cold or rainy weather slows it down. 

  2. Mist-dry in hot, dry climates

    • A light mist during scorching days helps prevent quick drying which can crack bedding.

  3. Postpone sealing natural stone

    • Wait 4–8 weeks before applying sealant—further drying prevents trapped moisture or efflorescence.

  4. Hold off on high-impact cleaning

    • Avoid power-washing or heavy scrubbing for about 2 months to avoid destabilizing joints.

✅ Final Takeaway – How soon can you walk on pavers after installation? 

As a rule of thumb:

  • Stay off new pavers for 2–4 days to allow initial settling.

  • Light walking is fine by day 3, but avoid heavy use.

  • Full use, including furniture and vehicles, should begin around 28 days post-installation.

This staged approach ensures your natural stone pavers look stunning and perform flawlessly for years.

How to stick pavers to ground?
17 Jul
Uncategorized

How to stick pavers to ground?

How to stick pavers to ground? Installing natural stone pavers is a great way to enhance the look and durability of your outdoor spaces. But to get the most out of your investment, they need to be installed properly — and that means making sure they stay firmly in place.

If you’re wondering how to stick pavers to the ground so they don’t shift, sink, or loosen over time, here’s a clear, professional guide to help you do it right.

Step 1: Choose the Right Base

Before anything gets “stuck” to the ground, you need a proper foundation.

Best option for natural stone pavers:

  • Compacted gravel base with a layer of bedding sand
    This flexible base allows water to drain while giving the pavers a solid surface to rest on.

For mortared installations:

  • If you’re planning a more permanent, rigid setup (like a patio or set of stairs), you’ll need a concrete slab base instead.

Step 2: Level and Compact the Base

A stable paver job starts with a level, compacted base.

  • Excavate the area about 6–8 inches deep.

  • Add 4–6 inches of crushed gravel and compact it thoroughly.

  • Add 1 inch of bedding sand (or mortar mix for stone on concrete) and level it out evenly.

Step 3: Apply Bonding Material

Depending on the type of project and surface, you’ll use one of the following methods to make your pavers stick:

Option 1: Dry-Laid (No Mortar)

  • After placing the pavers on the sand base, fill the joints with polymeric sand, which hardens slightly when watered and helps lock the stones in place.

  • Ideal for patios, walkways, or garden paths.

Option 2: Mortar-Set (For Concrete Bases)

  • Spread a thin layer of mortar or thin-set adhesive over the concrete slab using a notched trowel.

  • Press each stone firmly into place.

  • This method is best for steps, landings, or areas needing a permanent bond.

Option 3: Paver Bonding Adhesives

  • For adhering stone pavers directly to concrete (especially vertical surfaces like walls or steps), use a construction-grade landscape adhesive designed for stone.

  • Apply with a caulking gun, press the stone in place, and allow to cure.

Step 4: Lock It In

  • For dry-laid pavers: sweep polymeric sand into joints and water lightly to activate binding.

  • For mortar-set pavers: allow mortar to cure, then fill joints with grout or more mortar as needed.

  • For adhesive installs: check manufacturer’s dry time and avoid shifting while it cures.

Final Tips for Long-Lasting Paver Installs

  • Edge restraints are essential. They prevent pavers from spreading or shifting over time.

  • Drainage matters. Always ensure water can flow away from the installation to prevent erosion or freeze-thaw damage.

  • Seal your pavers (optional, but recommended for natural stone) to protect from stains and weathering.

Need Help Choosing the Right Materials? – How to stick pavers to ground?

We offer a wide variety of natural stone pavers, as well as the adhesives, mortar, and base materials you need for a successful install. Whether you’re a DIYer or working with a contractor, our team is here to help you get the job done right.

Does vinegar ruin pavers
16 Jul
Uncategorized

Does vinegar ruin pavers?

Does vinegar ruin pavers? Vinegar is a common household cleaner praised for being natural, non-toxic, and budget-friendly. But when it comes to cleaning outdoor surfaces like pavers, especially natural stone pavers, vinegar can do more harm than good.

The Problem with Vinegar on Pavers

Vinegar is an acid—acetic acid, to be exact. While it’s great for cutting through grease and grime, acidic solutions can react negatively with many types of natural stone. This reaction can lead to:

  • Etching – A dull, uneven surface caused by the acid eating away at the stone’s top layer.

  • Discoloration – Natural stone can change color or develop white spots when exposed to acid.

  • Weakened Structure – Repeated exposure may slowly deteriorate the stone, especially softer varieties like travertine, limestone, or marble.

  • Damaged Joint Sand – Vinegar can also break down the polymeric sand between pavers, leading to loose joints and weed growth.

What About Concrete Pavers?

While concrete pavers are a bit more durable, vinegar can still cause surface damage, especially with frequent use. It can also stain or lighten the color unevenly.

Safe Alternatives for Cleaning Pavers

If your natural stone or concrete pavers need a refresh, try these safer options:

  • Mild dish soap and water – A simple solution with a soft-bristle brush is often all you need.

  • Specialty paver cleaners – Designed specifically for stone or concrete, these products clean effectively without causing damage.

  • Pressure washing (carefully) – Great for removing surface dirt and algae, but avoid high pressure on softer stone.

Final Thoughts – Does vinegar ruin pavers?

Vinegar might seem like a harmless cleaner, but for pavers—especially natural stone—it can cause lasting damage. Always choose cleaning methods that preserve the beauty and integrity of your outdoor space.

Need help choosing or maintaining your natural stone pavers? Contact us today for expert advice and top-quality materials that are built to last.

Can I just put pavers on grass
15 Jul
Uncategorized

Can I just put pavers on grass?

If you’re looking to quickly spruce up your yard or create a charming garden path, you may be wondering: Can I just put pavers on grass? While it might seem like a simple shortcut, placing pavers directly on grass is rarely the best long-term solution—especially when using natural stone.

The Short Answer: You Can, But You Shouldn’t

Technically, you can lay pavers directly on grass. But doing so can lead to a range of issues:

  • Uneven surfaces as the grass dies and soil settles

  • Poor drainage, which can make pavers slippery or sink

  • Weed growth between stones

  • Shorter lifespan of your installation due to instability

Natural stone is a premium product, and it deserves a solid, well-prepared base to truly shine.

The Right Way to Install Natural Stone Pavers

To ensure durability and a professional look, here’s how we recommend preparing the ground before laying your pavers:

  1. Remove the Grass: Dig down at least 3–6 inches to remove grass, roots, and loose soil.

  2. Lay a Base Layer: Fill the area with a compacted layer of gravel (typically 3–4 inches).

  3. Add Sand or Stone Dust: A 1-inch layer of sand or stone dust helps level the surface and lock pavers in place.

  4. Lay Your Pavers: Place your natural stone pavers carefully, using a rubber mallet to set them evenly.

  5. Fill the Gaps: Sweep sand or stone dust into the joints to secure the pavers and prevent shifting.

Looking for a More Casual Option?

If you’re aiming for a temporary solution—say, for a garden party or a lightweight pathway—laying pavers over grass may be fine for the short term. But even then, consider using stepping stones with a gap between each one. This lets grass grow naturally between the stones and minimizes disturbance.

Final Thoughts – Can I just put pavers on grass?

While it might be tempting to skip the prep work, proper installation makes all the difference. A stable foundation ensures that your natural stone pavers stay level, look beautiful, and last for years.

At Tez Marble, we offer a wide selection of high-quality natural stone pavers—and we’re happy to guide you through installation best practices. Whether you’re creating a patio, walkway, or garden feature, we’re here to help you build it right.

Need help choosing the right stone for your project?
Contact us today or stop by our showroom!

Do pavers get hot
14 Jul
Uncategorized

Do pavers get hot?

Do pavers get hot? When planning your outdoor space—whether it’s a patio, pool deck, walkway, or driveway—comfort matters just as much as durability and design. A common concern many homeowners have, especially in warmer climates, is whether pavers get hot under the sun.

Let’s break it down.

Do Pavers Really Get Hot?

The short answer: yes, some pavers can get hot, especially when exposed to direct sunlight for hours. However, the degree to which they heat up depends heavily on the material, color, and surface texture.

Why Natural Stone Stays Cooler

If heat is a concern for your space, natural stone pavers are an excellent choice. Here’s why:

✅ Lower Heat Retention

Compared to concrete or brick, many types of natural stone—like travertine, limestone, and sandstone—naturally retain less heat. This makes them significantly more comfortable to walk on barefoot, even during the summer months.

✅ Light Colors Stay Cooler

Stones in lighter shades reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat. For example, light beige or ivory travertine tends to stay noticeably cooler than darker pavers or poured concrete.

✅ Porous Surface Advantage

Some natural stones, like travertine, have a porous structure that allows for air circulation and natural cooling, even after prolonged sun exposure.

What Affects Paver Temperature?

Several factors influence how hot your pavers will feel:

  • Material – Natural stone generally stays cooler than concrete or porcelain.

  • Color – Lighter colors reflect sunlight; darker colors absorb more heat.

  • Finish – Textured or tumbled surfaces often stay cooler than smooth, polished finishes.

  • Installation Location – Pavers in shaded or partially shaded areas will naturally stay cooler.

Ideal Pavers for Hot Climates

If you live in a warmer region, consider these natural stone options:

  • Travertine – One of the coolest-to-the-touch pavers available, especially in light finishes.

  • Limestone – A durable and cooler alternative with a soft, elegant look.

  • Sandstone – Porous and light in color, perfect for sun-drenched areas.

Tips to Keep Pavers Cool

Even if you choose heat-resistant materials, you can further reduce surface temperature with a few smart strategies:

  • Incorporate shade – Use pergolas, umbrellas, or landscaping to provide natural shade.

  • Mist the surface – A quick spray of water can cool pavers down immediately.

  • Install during off-peak sunlight – Orient patios or pool decks to minimize direct sun exposure.

Final Thoughts – Do pavers get hot?

Yes, pavers can get hot—but natural stone pavers offer a cooler, more comfortable alternative to other materials. If you’re designing an outdoor space where heat is a factor, investing in quality natural stone like travertine or limestone can make a noticeable difference in comfort and style.

Looking for the best pavers for hot weather?
Browse our in-stock collection of natural stone pavers, including cool-touch options perfect for patios, pools, and pathways.

Have questions? Contact our team today to find the perfect stone for your project.

How do you prepare the ground for pavers
11 Jul
Uncategorized

How do you prepare the ground for pavers?

How do you prepare the ground for pavers? Installing natural stone pavers is a great way to elevate the look of your outdoor space—but the key to a long-lasting, stable, and beautiful result lies in what happens before the pavers are laid. Proper ground preparation ensures your pavers won’t shift, sink, or crack over time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing the ground the right way:

1. Plan and Mark the Area

Start by measuring and marking the space where you plan to install your pavers. Use stakes and string lines to outline the exact area. This helps guide excavation and ensures clean, straight edges.

2. Excavate the Area

Dig out the marked space to the proper depth. This will depend on the type of natural stone, the intended use (walkway, driveway, patio), and your local climate. A general rule of thumb is:

  • Walkways & Patios: 6–8 inches deep

  • Driveways: 10–12 inches deep

This depth includes space for the gravel base, sand layer, and the paver thickness.

3. Add a Gravel Base

Lay down a base layer of crushed stone or gravel, typically 4–6 inches deep. This base supports drainage and keeps your pavers from shifting.

  • Use ¾-inch crushed stone or similar material

  • Spread evenly, then compact thoroughly using a plate compactor

  • Mist with water between compaction passes for best results

4. Add a Layer of Sand

On top of the compacted gravel base, add a 1-inch layer of coarse bedding sand. This layer helps you level the pavers precisely and acts as a cushion.

  • Use screed boards to level the sand evenly

  • Avoid walking on the sand after leveling to prevent dips

5. Lay the Pavers

Carefully place your natural stone pavers onto the sand bed in your desired pattern. Work from one corner and move outward. Use spacers if needed to maintain consistent joints.

6. Compact and Fill the Joints

Once all the pavers are in place:

  • Use the plate compactor again to press them firmly into the base

  • Sweep polymeric sand or jointing sand into the gaps between stones

  • Lightly mist with water to set the sand and prevent weed growth

Why Proper Ground Prep Matters – How do you prepare the ground for pavers?

Without a well-prepared base, even the most beautiful stone pavers can become uneven, cracked, or unstable. A solid foundation ensures your natural stone installation will look great and last for decades.

Need Help Choosing the Right Pavers? 
We specialize in high-quality natural stone pavers and can guide you on everything from material selection to installation tips. Contact us today or visit our showroom to get started on your next project!

What is the trend in pavers 2025
10 Jul
Uncategorized

What is the trend in pavers 2025?

What is the trend in pavers 2025? As we move through 2025, natural stone pavers continue to dominate the outdoor design world, offering timeless elegance with modern functionality. Whether you’re upgrading your patio, creating a luxurious walkway, or designing a backyard oasis, natural stone remains a top choice for homeowners, architects, and landscape designers alike. But what specific trends are shaping the way people use natural stone pavers in 2025? Let’s take a look.

1. Large Format Pavers

One of the standout trends in 2025 is the rise of large format natural stone pavers. Bigger slabs, such as 24″x36″ or even larger, are being used to create a clean, modern aesthetic with fewer grout lines. These oversized stones give outdoor spaces a sleek, expansive look, ideal for contemporary patios and pool decks.

2. Textured and Tumbled Finishes

While polished finishes have their place, textured surfaces are gaining popularity this year. Homeowners are leaning into tumbled, brushed, or flamed finishes that provide a more natural, aged appearance. These finishes not only look beautiful but also add slip resistance, making them perfect for wet areas like pool surrounds or walkways.

3. Neutral Earth Tones

In 2025, the color palette for natural stone pavers leans heavily toward soft, earthy tones. Think warm beiges, soft grays, sandy browns, and creamy whites. These colors create a calming, organic look that complements both modern and rustic outdoor designs. Stones like limestone, travertine, and light-colored sandstone are particularly popular for this trend.

4. Sustainable and Local Sourcing

With growing awareness of environmental impact, more customers are seeking sustainably sourced natural stone. In 2025, there’s an emphasis on using locally quarried stone whenever possible to reduce transportation emissions and support regional businesses. This trend highlights not just beauty, but responsibility in outdoor design.

5. Mixed Stone Patterns

Designers are getting more creative with layouts, using a mix of stone sizes and patterns to create visually dynamic surfaces. From random ashlar to Versailles patterns, combining different shapes and sizes of the same stone adds texture and interest without sacrificing harmony. This trend brings personality to patios, driveways, and garden paths.

6. Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Transitions

Blurring the line between indoor and outdoor living continues to be a major design goal. In 2025, homeowners are using the same or similar natural stone materials in both their interiors and outdoor spaces to create a cohesive flow. Matching kitchen floors to outdoor patios, for example, helps extend the living space and bring nature inside.

7. Low-Maintenance Appeal

Natural stone remains popular not just for its beauty, but for its longevity and ease of maintenance. In 2025, homeowners are increasingly drawn to pavers that require minimal upkeep yet maintain their aesthetic year after year. Durable options like granite, slate, and certain types of sandstone lead the way in this category.

Final Thoughts – What is the trend in pavers 2025?

The natural stone paver trends of 2025 blend timeless materials with modern style and sustainability. Whether it’s through large formats, earthy tones, or eco-conscious choices, the direction is clear: homeowners want outdoor spaces that are not only beautiful, but enduring and thoughtful.

If you’re considering updating your outdoor space, now is the perfect time to explore our wide selection of natural stone pavers. Let the trends of 2025 guide your design—and enjoy a space that will stay stylish for years to come.

Why are my pavers sinking
09 Jul
Uncategorized

Why are my pavers sinking?

 Why are my pavers sinking? If you’ve noticed that your once-level patio or walkway now has dips or uneven spots, you’re not alone. Sinking pavers are a common issue that homeowners face—and while it can be frustrating, it’s also fixable. At [Your Company Name], we specialize in high-quality natural stone pavers, and we know just how important it is to keep your hardscape looking its best. Let’s explore why pavers sink and how to prevent it.

1. Poor Base Preparation

One of the most common reasons pavers begin to sink is improper base preparation. If the ground wasn’t excavated to the right depth or if the base materials (like gravel and sand) weren’t compacted properly, the pavers are more likely to shift and settle over time.

Solution:
Always dig deep enough—usually 6 to 8 inches—and use a strong foundation of compacted gravel topped with bedding sand. This provides the stability pavers need to last for years without shifting.

2. Insufficient Compaction

Even if the correct materials are used, failing to compact each layer properly can lead to sinking. Loose, uncompressed soil and aggregate allow the pavers to settle unevenly, especially under the weight of furniture, foot traffic, or vehicles.

Solution:
Use a plate compactor to firmly press down each layer—from the sub-base to the bedding sand. Proper compaction minimizes air pockets and prevents movement.

3. Poor Drainage

Water is a powerful force. If your paver installation doesn’t allow for proper drainage, water can accumulate under the surface, washing away base materials and causing pavers to sink or become uneven.

Solution:
Grade the base so water flows away from the surface, and consider installing drainage systems or using permeable pavers if your site is prone to water retention.

4. Soil Erosion

In areas with clay or loose soil, erosion can undermine the base of your paver system. Rainwater or irrigation can slowly wash away soil under the surface, leading to sinking or shifting.

Solution:
Using landscape fabric and edge restraints can help contain the base material. Also, improving site drainage and using a solid gravel base can reduce the risk of erosion.

5. Tree Roots and Natural Ground Movement

Roots from nearby trees can lift or shift pavers, and natural ground movement over time can also cause settling. In some regions, freeze-thaw cycles contribute to this as well.

Solution:
Install pavers away from large tree roots and monitor for ground movement. Using a thicker base layer can help reduce the effects of frost heave or shifting soil.

How to Fix Sinking Pavers

The good news is that sinking pavers can usually be repaired without a full reinstallation:

  1. Remove the affected pavers.

  2. Add and re-level the base material.

  3. Compact the area.

  4. Reinstall the pavers and ensure they’re even.

Prevent Issues Before They Start – Why are my pavers sinking?

At [Your Company Name], we offer durable, high-quality natural stone pavers designed to stand the test of time—when installed correctly. Whether you’re starting a new project or looking to repair an existing one, our team is here to help with materials, expert advice, and installation tips.

Need help with sinking pavers or planning a new patio?
Contact us today or stop by to see our selection of natural stone pavers. Let’s build something beautiful and long-lasting together.

What happens if you don't put gravel under pavers
08 Jul
Uncategorized

What happens if you don’t put gravel under pavers?

What happens if you don’t put gravel under pavers? When installing a patio, walkway, or driveway with natural stone pavers, one crucial step that’s often overlooked is the gravel base. You might be tempted to skip it to save time or money—but laying pavers without a gravel foundation can lead to costly and frustrating problems down the road. Here’s why the gravel base matters and what can go wrong if it’s missing.

Why Is Gravel Important Under Pavers?

Gravel serves as the foundation layer beneath your pavers. It provides:

  • Drainage: Gravel helps water flow away from the pavers instead of pooling beneath them, which protects both the stones and the soil.

  • Stability: It creates a solid, compact base that prevents shifting, sinking, and uneven surfaces.

  • Longevity: A gravel base extends the life of your paver installation by minimizing erosion and movement.

What Happens If You Skip the Gravel?

1. Uneven Surfaces

Without gravel, the soil underneath can shift or settle over time—especially after heavy rain. This leads to pavers becoming uneven, causing tripping hazards and unsightly dips or humps in your patio or walkway.

2. Poor Drainage and Water Damage

Natural stone is durable, but if water collects beneath it due to poor drainage, it can cause the pavers to heave, loosen, or crack over time. Standing water can also contribute to mold and erosion under the surface.

3. Weed Growth and Soil Movement

Without a compacted gravel layer, weeds can push up between pavers more easily. Soil movement below the surface may also disturb the placement of each stone, requiring frequent re-leveling.

4. Reduced Lifespan

Skipping the gravel base may save you money upfront, but the resulting maintenance and potential need for reinstallation can be far more expensive. A proper base helps ensure your natural stone pavers last for decades.

Invest in the Right Foundation – What happens if you don’t put gravel under pavers?

Natural stone pavers are a beautiful and long-lasting choice—but only when installed correctly. A gravel base isn’t just an optional upgrade; it’s a necessity for a stable, durable, and professional-looking installation.

We not only provide premium natural stone pavers, but we also offer guidance on proper installation methods to help your project succeed from the ground up. Contact us today to get started!

How many years do pavers last
07 Jul
Uncategorized

How many years do pavers last?

If you’re planning a new patio, driveway, or walkway, one of the biggest questions you might have is: how long do pavers last? Whether you’re investing in a simple backyard path or a full outdoor living space, durability matters—and the good news is, natural stone pavers are built to stand the test of time.

Natural Stone Pavers: Built to Last

Unlike poured concrete or asphalt, natural stone pavers are incredibly durable. They’re cut from real stone—like granite, travertine, slate, or limestone—which means they’ve already survived millions of years of weathering before ever becoming a paver.

On average, natural stone pavers can last 50 to 100 years or more when properly installed and maintained. In fact, in many parts of the world, you can still walk on stone roads and courtyards that have been in use for centuries.

What Affects the Lifespan of Pavers?

While natural stone pavers have an impressive lifespan, a few factors will determine just how long they’ll last in your space:

1. Type of Stone

Some stones are harder and more weather-resistant than others. For example:

  • Granite is extremely hard and can handle heavy traffic.

  • Travertine is durable but more porous, making it better suited for footpaths and patios.

  • Slate is beautiful and strong, but may need sealing in freeze-thaw climates.

2. Installation Quality

Proper base preparation, drainage, and edge restraint play a huge role in how well your pavers hold up over time. Poor installation can lead to shifting, cracking, or water damage—shortening the life of even the toughest stone.

3. Climate

In regions with extreme temperature shifts, freeze-thaw cycles can take a toll on pavers. Natural stone fares better than concrete in these conditions, but sealing and proper slope for drainage can improve longevity even more.

4. Maintenance

Routine maintenance like sweeping, removing weeds, and occasional sealing can go a long way. Unlike other materials, natural stone doesn’t require a lot of upkeep—but small efforts over time help extend its life and appearance.

Natural Stone vs. Other Paving Materials

Here’s a quick comparison of how natural stone stacks up:

Material Average Lifespan
Natural Stone 50–100+ years
Concrete Pavers 20–40 years
Asphalt 15–25 years
Poured Concrete 25–30 years

Clearly, natural stone is a long-term investment that pays off not just in beauty, but in durability.

Final Thoughts 

So, how many years do pavers last? If you choose natural stone, the answer is: potentially a lifetime or more. With unmatched strength, timeless style, and minimal upkeep, natural stone pavers are one of the smartest choices you can make for your outdoor space.

Whether you’re designing a classic walkway or a modern patio, we can help you find the right natural stone pavers that will last for decades to come. Contact us today to learn more about our premium stone selection!