What You Need to Know Before Installing a Paver Driveway

What’s the first thing visitors are likely to notice when they approach your home? For many, it’s the driveway, which can often set the tone for the entire property. That’s why making a lasting first impression matters.

A well-designed concrete paver driveway adds instant curb appeal, creating a warm welcome that makes people stop and take notice. But before you break ground, here’s what you need to know to ensure your driveway is built to impress.

How deep do I need to excavate for a driveway build?

The foundation to a solid concrete paver driveway starts beneath the surface with proper excavation. Unlike patios or walkways, driveways must be able to withstand the constant weight and movement of vehicles year-round. This means driveways often require additional excavation up to 16”, allowing you to create a strong base that will ensure your driveway stands the test of time.

What are the base requirements for paver driveways?

Once you’ve completed your excavation, the next step is to add the base material. The amount of base needed will depend on the soil conditions of your jobsite. For instance, a well-draining area with undisturbed soil may only require about 10” of granular base, while poorly draining or disturbed soil could call for up to 14”. On top of this, you’ll need to add a 1” layer of bedding material on top of your compacted soil and base. The bedding course doesn’t need to be compacted as it’s designed to naturally settle over time.

Remember to factor in the thickness of your chosen pavers when planning your total excavation depth. To ensure the best results for your project, we recommend consulting a Unilock Authorized Contractor. These hardscape professionals are highly trained in proper site preparation, grading, and installation to ensure your concrete paver driveway is durable and beautiful.

Should I install large or small pavers for my driveway?

Unilock offers pavers in various shapes and sizes, from smaller plank-style pavers to large-format slabs. While larger slabs work great for patios and pool surrounds, they tend to be much thinner than traditional pavers, which can make them more vulnerable to cracking under heavy loads.

For driveways, we recommend using small to medium-sized pavers. These options are engineered to exceed the national average for compressive strength, making them better suited for handling heavy loads. Some of our most popular driveway pavers include Umbriano®, Series™, and Beacon Hill™ Smooth. To explore our full selection, visit our Driveway Pavers product page.

Is it cheaper to use poured concrete or install pavers?

This is a question we hear quite often. At first glance, poured concrete usually comes with a lower upfront cost. However, it can be more susceptible to cracking from freeze/thaw cycles, leading to costly repairs that involve replacing large sections or even the entire driveway.

In contrast, concrete pavers are far easier to maintain and repair, since individual damaged units can be swapped out with fresh ones. Plus, Unilock offers options like EnduraColor™ or Elegance™ that deliver enhanced durability, color retention, and lasting beauty, without the hassle of upkeep.

Since pavers typically account for only 20% of a project’s overall budget (the rest being labor), upgrading to higher-quality products can be a smart long-term investment.

What’s the best paver laying pattern for a driveway?

Since driveways often endure constant pressure and shifting from vehicle traffic, choosing a paver pattern that can provide superior interlock is key. One popular choice is the herringbone pattern, which features an interlocking V-shape that forms a repeating zigzag layout, delivering a durable, timeless look that complements any home style.

Will water drain between my driveway pavers?

Any paver with joint gaps will allow some water to pass through, but true permeability will depend on more than just joint spacing. You’ll also need to consider the type of base material you’re using, joint width, joint infill, and the overall void percentage. To achieve optimal drainage, we recommend upgrading to Unilock permeable pavers paired with an open-graded base consisting of clear angular stone that’s free of fines, along with crushed angular chip stone for joint infill. Together, this system creates a stable surface that effectively manages stormwater runoff along your driveway.

Are concrete paver driveways hard to maintain throughout the year?

Not at all. Routine messes like fallen leaves or oil spills are usually easy to clean with just mild soap and water or a specialized paver cleaner. After applying the solution, you can simply scrub with a stiff push broom or rinse it off using a pressure washer set to a low setting.

If you’re looking for a product that requires less upkeep, consider pavers manufactured with EasyClean™ technology. These products feature built-in stain resistance, making it easier to clean spills before they turn into stains. For more detailed paver cleaning tips, be sure to check out our blog.

Do I need to seal my concrete paver driveway?

The short answer is no, Unilock pavers are designed for durability, with or without a sealer. That said, some homeowners do choose to seal their pavers to enhance their vibrant color and to protect against future stains. If you decide to apply a sealer, you will need to reapply every 3-5 years to maintain those benefits. For more information, be sure to check out our paver sealing blog.

When it comes to enhancing your home’s curb appeal, there’s no better solution than Unilock driveway pavers. These products deliver instant charm, unmatched durability, and timeless beauty that will turn your driveway into a neighborhood destination. If you’re ready to start planning your driveway project, explore our Dream Gallery and our Catalog of Dreams for design inspiration and product ideas. Once you’ve shaped your vision, fill out our Find a Contractor form to connect with a trusted Unilock Authorized Contractor who can provide a free estimate for your project.