Let’s be honest—watching YouTube videos of people effortlessly laying perfect interlocking pavers makes it look like you could knock out a patio in a weekend with nothing but enthusiasm and a rented plate compactor. The reality? Those videos don’t show the three trips to the hardware store, the moment you realize your “level” ground isn’t actually level, or the creative vocabulary you’ll develop when sand gets everywhere except where it’s supposed to go.

That doesn’t mean paver installation is out of reach for determined homeowners. It just means knowing what you’re getting into before you start tearing up your backyard. With the right preparation and realistic expectations, you can create beautiful, durable surfaces that stand the test of time.

The key isn’t about mastering fancy techniques—it’s about respecting the preparation and process that makes the finished product strong, stable, and long-lasting. Skip the prep, and your patio may not survive a single season. Do it properly, and you’ll have a surface that weathers Canadian conditions with ease.

What Are Interlocking Pavers?

Interlocking pavers are individual units designed to fit together like puzzle pieces, creating a flexible surface that can adapt to ground movement without cracking. Unlike poured concrete, which tends to fail dramatically when it shifts, pavers can be adjusted and reinstalled if settling occurs.

Available in concrete, clay brick, and even natural stone, interlocking pavers give homeowners plenty of choice when it comes to style, color, and texture. They’re especially popular because they combine durability with visual appeal, offering a polished look that’s still practical.

The biggest advantage is flexibility: if one area settles unevenly, you can address the base beneath and reuse the same pavers rather than dealing with costly repairs.

The Process of Laying Interlocking Pavers

While every project has unique requirements, most paver installations follow a general process:

• Preparation of the ground – A stable foundation is essential. This usually involves clearing the site, ensuring proper drainage, and creating a base that can withstand use and weather.
   
• Adding a bedding layer – A thin, level layer of material allows the pavers to sit evenly and lock together properly.
   
• Placing the pavers – This is where the visual design comes to life. Patterns, spacing, and alignment all play a role in achieving a polished finish.
   
• Securing the edges – Without edge restraints, even the best-laid pavers will shift over time. Strong borders keep everything in place.
   
• Finishing touches – Once installed, the surface is compacted and sand is swept into the joints, locking the pavers together and helping prevent movement.
   

Pavers for Different Applications

Pavers aren’t just for patios—they’re also popular for driveways, walkways, and even temporary outdoor solutions.

• Driveways benefit from the strength of interlocking brick and concrete pavers, designed to handle the weight of vehicles while maintaining visual appeal.
   
• Walkways and patios often focus more on design and atmosphere, making use of color and pattern to complement landscaping.
   
• Deck tiles offer a lightweight, removable option for areas where permanent installation isn’t practical, giving flexibility for seasonal or temporary use.
   

Why Work with a Professional?

While DIY projects can be rewarding, interlocking pavers are an investment that requires patience and precision. The process may look straightforward, but skipping key steps in preparation or installation can shorten the life of your project significantly.

Professionals bring not only the tools and materials but also the experience to anticipate challenges like drainage, ground movement, and long-term durability. A properly installed surface adds value to your home and can last decades with minimal maintenance.

For permanent, high-quality paver installation and landscaping services that handle Canadian weather conditions and provides lasting value, contact us at Michael Durham Landscaping. We’ll help you create beautiful, durable surfaces that enhance your property for years to come.