Brick Paver Contractor

During the onsite assessment for the installation of a new brick paver driveway, it is important to first determine the soil type that exists at the particular location. Then, our knowledge and expertise are used to determine what the proper installation techniques are in order to comply with all industry standards and recommendations so as to ensure that the driveway will be structurally sound and able to withstand the test of time.

At APL Landscape Solutions, we are not only dedicated to providing the highest quality work during installations; we are committed to maintaining a positive relationship with all of our clients through effective communication during every stage of the landscape process.

Minneapolis Brick Paver Driveway Installation

An example of the process for installing a brick paver driveway in heavy, clay soils is as follows:

First, 14-15″ is excavated down from the top of the reference points (an existing sidewalk, garage floor, or curb cut for example) and deeper, if needed. Then, a Minnesota DOT specified geo-synthetic woven fabric is installed over the top of the clay soil (this application is similar to what is practiced in road construction projects, throughout the state of Minnesota). This creates a separation between the clay soil and the compactable material, thus eliminating the possibility that the two types of material will combine over the years. Clay soil retains moisture and during the freeze-thaw cycle (without the use of a geotextile), the soil has been known to push up and through the compactable material, eventually making its way to the surface. When this happens the pavers will move, causing noticeable unevenness in the surface of the driveway. The only way to properly repair the problem is to repeat the entire process over again. The initial investment may be a little bit more, but to have the job done right the first time holds the value of peace of mind, which is unparalleled.

The next step is to add 11-15″ of Class-5 Limestone, compactable material, and compacting it in 3-4″ lifts. Once the compactable material has been installed, a 3/4″ steel pipe is used as a guide for screeding sand 1” thick over the compacted limestone. A laser level is used to obtain the highest level of accuracy when setting heights. Once the sand has been screeded, pavers are laid over the top in whatever pattern was selected by the client. Top of the line, commercial grade edging restraints are used in combination with 12” edging spikes set 8” apart to secure the pavers in place, and to withstand the intense Minnesota freeze/thaw cycle. This technique is an industry standard that eliminates the possibility of the spikes being pushed up during and after extreme climate changes.

The next step is to sweep coarse washed sand into the joints between the pavers and run a compactor over the surface of the driveway multiple times. This process allows the sand to penetrate between the gaps that are intentionally left between the pavers. At this point, the installation is complete, and its time for the client to admire their new driveway, and feel a sense of security knowing that the investment they made will last forever, and that the APL Landscape Solutions installed their new driveway with the highest standards of quality in mind.

Quality Worksmanship

The quality of work offered by APL Landscape Solutions does not end after the installation is complete. APL Landscape holds the highest warranty in the industry. A five year unlimited warranty is offered after the installation of any hardscape project.