Can you put pavers over the concrete? The simple answer could be Yes, you can. This is usually a concern for homeowners who do not want to salvage the existing concrete any further. They just want to lay pavers to transform their outdoors. This can be a great way to improve the beauty of your landscape without adding much. However, you will need proper planning and preparation to complete the task. Here is what you need to understand about this.
How to Install Pavers Over Concrete
Here is how to install pavers over concrete.
Inspect the Concrete Surface
Make sure the concrete beneath is stable and there won’t be any cracks or shifts. If you are noticing any instability, then you may have to repair or replace the pavers.
Clean the Surface
Once you observe the surface, remove dirt, grease, and debris. A clean surface will provide better support to the payer layout and ensure that the sand base is even.
Choose the Installation Method:
You can install porcelain pavers and natural stone pavers in two possible ways:
1– The Dry Lay Method will include the use of sand or thin layers of crushed stone as a leveling base over the concrete.
2- The Mortar/Adhesive Method is glued directly to the concrete surface. This is best for areas such as pool surroundings and steps where foot traffic is not involved.
Add a Slope (if needed):
Concrete should have a slight slope for drainage. If you aren’t sure about the slope, then add one as it will allow water to flow away seamlessly from the structure.
Install Edging:
Add the edging around the perimeter, as it will secure the pavers from shifting or displacement over time.
Lay the Pavers:
Position the pavers in your desired pattern. Use a rubber mallet to set them firmly into the sand base using the dry-lay method.
Fill the Joints:
Step 6 of How to Install Pavers Over Concrete:
Use fine sand or polymeric sand over the surface and sweep it into the joints. This will lock the pavers in place and eliminate weed growth.
Compact and Seal (optional):
Set the pavers with a compactor. Sealing paver surfaces makes them durable and stain-resistant.
When To Avoid Pavers Over Concrete?
If your concrete is badly damaged, cracked, uneven, or shows signs of sinking, then it is better to avoid doing it. First, repair it if you want to do so. This is further explained below:
1- Structural Issues:
If the underlying surface is cracked or the concrete is damaged, then laying pavers over the concrete will cause even more problems. The pavers over the concrete will get sunk or shift further, which will create more mess.
2- Poor drainage:
Poor drainage is another sign that you should avoid putting pavers over concrete. If water doesn’t drain through it or the slab has poor slope or ponding issues, adding pavers can make things worse. You may have to face problems like,
- Puddling between pavers and concrete,
- Mold or mildew growth
- Freeze-thaw damage in colder climates.
3- New And Unstabilized Concrete
Concrete usually takes time to be fully cured. If you are going to install pavers over concrete and it is still wet or unstabilized, then paver installation will result in shifting and surface cracking beneath. You should wait at least 30 days or more to put pavers over concrete.
4- You’re Using Thin or Low-Quality Pavers
Thin pavers, which usually have a thickness of less than 1’, are not a good choice for surface installation unless the concrete beneath is in perfect condition and it will not have to face heavy vehicular traffic.
If the pavers:
- Can’t handle the weight load
- Aren’t properly adhered
- Aren’t rated for outdoor use
They will be prone to chip and crack.
5- You Need Height Clearance
Adding pavers and a bedding layer over concrete will result in an increased height of the surface. The increase could be 2-3 inches or even more. This can cause issues like:
- Doors will not open or close properly
- Step transitions becoming unsafe or non-code compliant
- Water is getting trapped against foundations or siding
This option is not a good choice if you want a limited height.
You’re in a Freeze-Thaw Climate
If you are in a freeze-thaw climate, then the weather can be too damaging for the surface. The moisture may get trapped between pavers and concrete, which will expand when it freezes. Over time, this may result in issues like:
- Paver displacement or pop
- Ice damage to the base
- Long-term deterioration
You should opt for a permeable base system in a freeze-thaw climate or avoid putting pavers over concrete.
What Are The Benefits of Laying Pavers Over Concrete?
Considering you are looking for an answer to Can You Put Pavers Over Concrete, you know it’s worth it. Laying pavers over concrete can be greatly beneficial. Here is why they are a great choice.
Cost-Effective Solution
One of the best reasons to choose pavers over concrete is that they are a budget-friendly stone paving solution. If you want to install pavers, then concrete can be used as the solid base. You don’t have to worry about removing existing concrete. This will save you a lot on labor and material costs, and you can save a huge amount in the end.
Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal
Another great benefit is their beauty. Pavers come in a wide range of colors, styles, textures, and shapes. You can use them to create your desired look for your outdoors. They can fit any aesthetic preferences and complement custom looks. Pavers can be used to create any type of look, from rustic and classic to modern ones. Pavers can effortlessly improve the appearance of a dull concrete surface.
Enhanced Durability
When you install pavers over concrete then you create a durable and sturdy surface. Pavers will already have a stone base like the concrete underneath. There will not be any risk of shifting or settling reduction over time. This durability will make pavers a great choice for areas with high traffic, such as walkways, driveways, and patios.
Improved Drainage
It can also enhance the water drainage effectively. You can add a layer of sand or crushed stone between the concrete and pavers. This will improve the water flow way better. There won’t be any water pooling on the surface as well, which may result in slippery surfaces on plain concrete.
Quick Installation
Though it will not be snappy, it will be a much time-saving stone paving installation. This is because laying pavers over existing concrete will work as a base. So you will not have to perform any extra steps and just lay pavers accordingly. Such preparation and laying pavers will not take much time, and homeowners can complete the project quickly.
Non-Slip Surface
Unlike the smooth surface of concrete, porcelain pavers have a better grip. This is why they are a safer option to be used around areas where they are prone to get wet, such as pool decks and patios. The non-slip feature improves safety, especially for families with kids or elderly people.
Easy Maintenance and Repair
The maintenance and repair of pavers is easier than concrete. If a paver gets damaged or stained, you can replace it without disrupting the whole thing. Furthermore, the pavers can also be protected against weathering and stains by sealing them.
Conclusion
If you are wondering, “Can you put pavers over concrete?” then yes, it is possible, but with some exceptions. You cannot just put your pavers on existing concrete. You need to have a plan and prepare according to the selected space.
This approach is beneficial in various ways. The overall procedure is cost-friendly and quick if you know what you are doing. This method can provide you with a lasting and beautiful solution to upgrade your exterior. If you aren’t sure where to start, then consult with NT Pavers. They can guide you better. If you don’t want to do it yourself, then hire them to get it done with perfection.
