Concrete slabs crack when the ground beneath them shifts, and asphalt softens under heat and heavy loads. Pavers, by contrast, are individual units that move independently, which allows them to flex with minor ground movement without breaking. In Smyrna, where clay soils expand and contract with moisture and temperatures swing throughout the year, this flexibility makes pavers a more reliable choice for outdoor surfaces that need to stay level and functional.
Atlanta's J & J Landscape & Tree Service, Inc. installs pavers for patios, walkways, and driveways using materials suited to Georgia weather and the type of traffic the surface will see. The installation process includes excavation, base preparation, edge restraint, and compaction to create a stable foundation that supports the pavers and prevents shifting. Joints are filled with polymeric sand that locks the units together and resists washout during rain.
If you are planning a new patio or driveway in Smyrna, reach out to discuss layout, materials, and timing.
The crew begins by excavating the area to a depth that accommodates the base material, sand layer, and pavers. In Smyrna, where drainage is a common concern, the base is graded to direct water away from structures. Crushed stone is spread in layers and compacted using a plate compactor to create a firm, level foundation.
Once the pavers are installed, you will have a surface that drains water between the joints, resists cracking, and can be repaired by replacing individual units rather than tearing out the entire area. The pavers will stay level and stable as long as the base remains compacted and the edge restraint holds the perimeter in place.
Edge restraint is installed along the perimeter to prevent the pavers from spreading outward over time. A layer of bedding sand is screeded flat, and the pavers are laid in the chosen pattern. After placement, polymeric sand is swept into the joints and activated with water. The service does not include landscaping, lighting, or seating walls unless specifically requested.
Most homeowners want to understand how pavers hold up, what the installation involves, and how the surface will perform in different weather conditions.
Pavers can flex with ground movement without cracking, and if one unit is damaged, you can replace it individually. Concrete slabs crack and require full replacement when the base shifts.
Atlanta's J & J Landscape & Tree Service, Inc. grades the base to slope away from buildings, and water drains through the joints between pavers. This prevents pooling and reduces runoff problems common in Smyrna.
Polymeric sand is a blend of fine sand and binding agents that hardens when water is applied. It locks the pavers together, resists erosion, and prevents weeds from growing between the joints.
Most residential patios and walkways are completed in two to four days depending on size and site conditions. Driveways may take longer due to the volume of base material and the compaction required.
When installed with a properly compacted base, pavers can support vehicle traffic without cracking or sinking. The base thickness and compaction are adjusted based on whether the surface will see foot traffic or cars.
If you are ready to install a new patio, walkway, or driveway in Smyrna, Atlanta's J & J Landscape & Tree Service, Inc. can walk the site, discuss material options, and provide a timeline for the work. Get in touch to start planning your project.