Paver Walkways & Driveways
Beautiful, durable paver walkways and driveways that enhance your curb appeal and handle heavy use for decades.
Why Pavers Beat Concrete Every Time
When it comes to walkways and driveways, you have choices. You could go with poured concrete and hope it doesn't crack in five years, or you could invest in pavers that offer flexibility, durability, and beauty that actually improves over time. Pavers don't crack like concrete slabs. Instead, they move with the ground beneath them, which means they handle freeze-thaw cycles and soil settling without breaking apart.
In Fremont, CA, where we see temperature changes and occasional ground movement, pavers are the smart choice for homeowners who want long-term value. When a paver does get damaged, you simply replace that one piece instead of tearing out and replacing an entire section of concrete. Plus, paver walkways and driveways give you design options that plain concrete just can't match. You can choose colors, patterns, and textures that complement your home and landscape.
At FRM Fremont Masonry, we've installed paver walkways and driveways for hundreds of homeowners throughout the Bay Area. We know how to prepare the base correctly, install drainage systems, and create patterns that turn functional spaces into beautiful features of your property.
Paver Materials and Styles We Install
Not all pavers are created equal. The material you choose affects the look, durability, and maintenance requirements of your walkway or driveway. Here are the most popular options we install in Fremont:
- •Concrete pavers: The most versatile and affordable option. Available in countless colors, shapes, and textures, from modern sleek styles to traditional cobblestone looks.
- •Brick pavers: Classic and timeless, brick pavers offer warm tones and a traditional aesthetic that works beautifully with historic homes.
- •Natural stone pavers: Bluestone, granite, and sandstone provide unique colors and textures. Each stone is one of a kind.
- •Permeable pavers: Eco-friendly options that allow water to drain through, reducing runoff and helping with stormwater management.
- •Porcelain pavers: Premium option with incredible durability, stain resistance, and modern appeal. Perfect for contemporary homes.
We'll bring samples to your home during our free consultation and help you choose the right material, color, and pattern for your project and budget.
Our Walkway and Driveway Installation Process
A paver walkway or driveway is only as good as the foundation beneath it. We follow proven installation methods that ensure your pavers stay level, drain properly, and look great for decades.
Step 1: Design Planning and Site Assessment
We start by meeting with you to discuss your vision and assess the site conditions. We'll measure the area, evaluate drainage needs, and show you material samples. For driveways, we discuss traffic patterns and parking requirements. For walkways, we consider accessibility, safety, and how the path connects different areas of your property.
Step 2: Excavation and Base Preparation
Proper base preparation is critical. We excavate to the correct depth, install landscape fabric to prevent weed growth, and build up layers of compacted crushed stone. This creates a stable foundation that prevents settling and allows for proper drainage. For driveways, we use a thicker base to handle vehicle weight. Our work on retaining walls often complements walkway projects.
Step 3: Edge Restraints and Paver Installation
We install edge restraints to keep pavers locked in place, then lay each paver by hand according to your chosen pattern. Whether you want a simple running bond, elegant herringbone, or custom design, we ensure consistent spacing, tight joints, and proper alignment from start to finish.
Step 4: Joint Sand and Compaction
Once all pavers are in place, we sweep polymeric sand into the joints and compact the entire surface with a plate compactor. This locks the pavers together and creates a stable, cohesive surface. We clean up the site thoroughly and walk you through maintenance recommendations so your investment looks great for years to come.