Our Services FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Here at Eli's Paver Patios, we're asked questions about our pavers all the time. Find our most frequently asked questions below. If you have any other questions or would like to make an enquiry, you can get in touch with us on (360) 807-4198 for a FREE estimate.

General FAQs

What paver services do you offer?

We offer a comprehensive range of outdoor paver services, including paver installation, outdoor living solutions, retaining walls, and paver maintenance. Including:

Patios
Driveways
Walkways
Pool areas and coping
Paved entertaining areas
Custom outdoor kitchens
Bars and grills
Custom fire pits and fireplaces
Outdoor seating
Raised garden beds
Outdoor seating
Fencing
Feature walls
Walls with waterfalls
Sanding and cleaning
Sealing
Paver repairs
Year-round paver maintenance program
Drainage systems and erosion control
Garden curbing/edging
Softscaping (earth moving and leveling)
Outdoor living and entertaining areas
Patios and gazebos
Decks and outdoor stairs
Outdoor Tile and Pavers
Driveways (concrete/asphalt/other)
Outdoor amenities
Retaining walls
Pool coping installation.
Pressure cleaning
Fountains
Deck and garden lighting (extra low voltage)
Yard lighting
Outdoor entertaining lighting
Artificial turf installation
Learn more about all our services here

Do you repair existing pavers?

Yes, we provide repair services for existing pavers as part of our maintenance offerings. Best of all, our quality paver repair services are backed by our 5-year workmanship guarantee.

Do you offer payment plans?

Absolutely, we offer flexible payment plans, including 0% financing options, to suit your needs.

Is your work covered by a warranty?

Yes, we provide a 5-year workmanship guarantee on our installations, and we also partner with Belgard® Pavers, offering a lifetime warranty on their products.

Why should I choose Eli's Paver Patios?

At Eli’s Paver Patios, we’re committed to creating exceptional outdoor spaces. With over 100 years of combined industry experience, we’ve earned a reputation in Puget Sound, WA for reliability and expert workmanship. As a family-owned and operated business, we take pride in our highly skilled team of fully certified and insured paver patio contractors. We handle both residential and commercial projects with flexibility, ensuring no project is too big or small for us to tackle. We prioritize maintaining a clean and tidy project space, minimizing downtime and fuss so you can enjoy quality paving in no time. Choose Eli’s Paver Patios for our expertise as a certified Belgard Master Craftsman, our dedication to customer satisfaction, our use of industry-leading materials, our customized designs, and our warranties on both workmanship and materials.

Do I have to be home for the day of installation?

Typically, it’s not necessary for you to be home for the day of scheduled work, but we’ll ensure clear communication throughout the process.

How long does installation take?

The duration of installation varies depending on the scope of the project, but typically a paver installation job will take approximately 1 working day per 300 square feet.

When can I allow cars and furniture on my paved surface?

Generally, cars and furniture can be allowed back on the paved surface on the same day of installation. However, the exact timing depends on factors such as the specific materials used and the required curing time. We’ll provide tailored guidance based on your project’s needs and conditions.

How long will my paver last?

Even though our paver of choice Belgard® pavers are extremely durable and come with a lifetime structural warranty, seasonal maintenance is encouraged to preserve the beauty and integrity of your hardscape installation. To keep pavers looking their best, plan to clean and reseal them every three to five years.

What paver maintenance is required?

Maintenance for your pavers may include regular cleaning, sanding, sealing, and occasional repairs as needed. Our maintenance programs are designed to keep your paver patios looking its best for years to come.

How do I choose a paver patio contractor?

I wish I had a nickel for every time I was asked this question while working at the paver stone manufacturer. I could have retired by now! This industry is constantly changing. In the ’90s, when paving stones were getting their start here in the Northwest, this wasn’t much of a challenge because so few companies installed paving stones. During this time, you were lucky to find a contractor who knew what they were!

Then, in the early to mid-2000s, everybody decided to jump on board and offer to install patio pavers. At this point, most contractors weren’t chosen by how much they charged or how well they presented their companies, but rather how soon they could start the project. The demand was so high you were fortunate to find a contractor who wasn’t booked out for months!

In 2009, this all changed. After the economy took a huge hit, choosing a contractor became all about one thing: price. The least expensive bid became the winner in most cases. Since 2010, the industry seems to be stabilizing and many of the “fly-by-night” contractors were weeded out. I’ve found that customers who use professional services are typically most satisfied when they choose based on how comfortable they feel with the contractor.

Price is also always a factor. It’s a good idea to get three bids. Since every job is different, having multiple bids gives some perspective on what a fair price actually is. If you have a bid that seems way too low, there’s a reason for that. Low bids are normally due to inexperience and could cause the contractor to cut corners or ask for more money in the middle of the project, leading to unforeseen costs. On the other end, you could have a bid that seems like it’s way too high. Unfortunately, there are construction companies that will start with a high price and keep lowering it until you sign the contract. This tactic is common when trying to charge more than fair or normal amounts for work performed.

You should never feel pressured to commit to any job offered by a contractor. This ensures bid accuracy when comparing contractors and also helps to ensure that the installation process will be performed correctly. Customers are typically most dissatisfied when something is promised during the estimating process and wasn’t delivered or performed during the installation. That was a common issue I came across frequently while working as a manufacturer. Check that each contractor bidding is specking the correct type of materials and amounts of materials. This ensures bid accuracy when comparing contractors and also helps to ensure that the installation process will be performed correctly.

Make sure you have everything in writing as far as what type of materials you should receive and exactly what work will be performed.

Paver Installation

What is the correct way to install paver stones?

A basic installation guide for installing patio pavers would be:

Excavate (not always but in most cases)
Install crushed gravel
Compact gravel
Screed no more than 1” of sand (or less than ½”)
Lay pavers
Cut where needed and set the edge restraint
Compact pavers
Sweep sand into the joints
Compact and re-apply sand until joints are full

More specific installation instructions depend on the area that will be paved.

Patios and walkways: Typically, some sort of excavation is required to allow for the sub-base and stone. Normally you need about 6″-7” of excavation for 3″-4” of crushed gravel (3/4 or 5/8 minus), 1” of washed sand, and 2 3/8” for the paver itself. Some cases require the walkway or patio to be raised. This application normally doesn’t require any excavation except for the block used around the perimeter to elevate the area. With raised areas, most edges that would require edge restraint would instead have paver adhesive applied to the border stand and blocks used to elevate the area.

Driveways: Any area with recurring vehicular traffic would be installed similarly to patios and walkways, with a couple of key differences. The main difference is the amount of gravel used. Driveways require a minimum of 6”-8” of crushed gravel — up to 10″-12” depending on the circumstance. Geo fabric installation under the gravel isn’t required but is an inexpensive way to strengthen your sub-base.

Will my pavers settle over time and cause dips and potholes?

If the installation is performed correctly, you should not have any issues with your patio pavers settling. However, occasionally unforeseen settling can occur below the sub-base. This is very rare but can easily be repaired by removing the affected stones and repairing the sub-base.

Are paver stones permeable?

Most patio pavers are not permeable. Typically, less than 10% of water will make its way through the sand joint and into the soil. For normal paver stone application, water draining through the joints is a common cause of settling. There are, however, special “permeable” pavers that are designed to allow 100% of rainwater to drain through the joints. The installation process requires crushed open aggregate so that water can make its way to the soil. Additionally, a smaller-sized crushed rock is used in the joints instead of sand.

Which is cheaper pavers or concrete?

Generally, concrete is less expensive upfront compared to pavers. However, pavers offer a range of benefits, including aesthetic appeal, durability, and ease of repair that can make them a more cost-effective option in the long run. At Eli’s Paver Patios, we believe in the value that pavers bring to any outdoor project and are happy to discuss options that fit within your budget.

Are pavers good for walkways?

Yes, pavers are an excellent choice for walkways. They provide a durable, slip-resistant surface that can withstand heavy foot traffic and severe weather conditions. With a wide range of colors, shapes, and textures available, Eli’s Paver Patios can help design a walkway that enhances the beauty and accessibility of your outdoor spaces.

What is the difference between patio pavers and driveway pavers?

Patio pavers and driveway pavers differ primarily in their thickness and durability. Driveway pavers are thicker and made from stronger materials to withstand the weight of vehicles, while patio pavers can be thinner as they only need to handle foot traffic. Eli’s Paver Patios offers a variety of options for both applications, ensuring both beauty and functionality regardless of where they are installed.

What are Belgard® pavers made from?

Belgard® pavers are made from a mixture of concrete and aggregate, with color pigments added for aesthetic variety. This composition ensures the pavers are strong, durable, and able to withstand various weather conditions without fading. Belgard®’s manufacturing process ensures a high-quality product that Eli’s Paver Patios is proud to install for our clients.

How long do Belgard® pavers last?

Belgard® pavers are designed to last a lifetime. With proper installation and maintenance, these pavers can last for decades, often with a lifetime warranty against cracking and breaking. This durability makes them an excellent investment for any outdoor project. Eli’s Paver Patios stands behind the quality and longevity of Belgard® pavers.

How much does it cost to install 300 square feet of pavers?

The cost of installing 300 square feet of pavers can vary widely based on the type of pavers selected, the complexity of the design, and the preparation required for the site. At Eli’s Paver Patios, we provide customized quotes to ensure you get the best value for your project. On average, prices can range from $3,000 to $6,000 for a project of this size. We invite you to contact us for a personalized estimate tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

How much does it cost to build a paver patio?

The cost to build a paver patio varies based on size, material choice, and design complexity. At Eli’s Paver Patios, prices on average are $40 per square foot. We offer free consultations to provide you with a detailed estimate based on your specific project requirements, ensuring transparency and satisfaction from the start.

Outdoor Living

Does outdoor living spaces increase home value?

Absolutely! At Eli’s Paver Patios, we’ve seen firsthand how our outdoor living spaces, including beautifully designed paver patios, outdoor kitchens, and fire pit areas, can significantly boost the value of your home. These enhancements not only elevate your property’s aesthetic appeal but also its functionality, making it more attractive to future buyers. The exact increase in value can vary, but the investment is typically well worth it.

Do you need planning permission for an outdoor kitchen?

Often, yes. The need for planning permission for an outdoor kitchen can depend on various factors, including the scope of your project and local regulations. We recommend checking with your local building authority, and our team at Eli’s Paver Patios is here to assist with navigating these requirements.

How much does a custom outdoor kitchen cost?

The cost of a custom outdoor kitchen can vary widely, depending on the size, materials, and appliances you choose. On average, our clients spend between $5,000 and $18,000 for their outdoor kitchens. Projects utilizing high-end materials and appliances can exceed these figures. At Eli’s Paver Patios, we work with you to design a kitchen that fits your budget and exceeds your expectations.

How long do outdoor kitchens last?

With the quality craftsmanship Eli’s Paver Patios provides, coupled with proper maintenance, an outdoor kitchen can last from 10 to 20 years or more. The longevity depends on the materials used and their exposure to the elements, but we pride ourselves on building kitchens to last.

How long does it take to build an outdoor kitchen?

The timeframe for building an outdoor kitchen varies, generally taking from a few days to several weeks. Factors influencing the timeline include the project’s complexity, chosen materials, and weather conditions. At Eli’s Paver Patios, we strive to complete your kitchen efficiently without compromising on quality.

Does a firepit area add value to your home?

Certainly! A well-crafted fire pit area from Eli’s Paver Patios can significantly enhance your outdoor living space, adding both appeal and value to your home. It creates an inviting atmosphere for gatherings, which can be a strong selling point.

Can you put a fire pit on a paver patio?

Yes, a fire pit can be safely installed on a paver patio, especially one designed and installed by Eli’s Paver Patios. We ensure the patio is constructed to support the weight and heat of the fire pit, offering you peace of mind and a perfect setting for your outdoor gatherings.

Can you use pavers for an outdoor fireplace?

Indeed, pavers are an excellent choice for constructing an outdoor fireplace. They offer durability and a wide range of aesthetic options. At Eli’s Paver Patios, we use high-heat resistant pavers to ensure your outdoor fireplace is not only stunning but built to last.

How much does it cost to build an outdoor stone fireplace?

Building an outdoor stone fireplace with us can range from $3,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the design complexity and the stone materials you select. We specialize in creating custom fireplaces that fit within your budget while achieving your desired look and functionality.

Do you need special bricks for outdoor fireplace?

Yes, for the inner parts of an outdoor fireplace, we use fire-rated or refractory bricks, which are essential for safety and durability. These bricks are designed to withstand high temperatures, ensuring your fireplace is a safe, long-lasting addition to your outdoor space.

Retaining Walls

What is the average cost for a retaining wall?

The cost of constructing a retaining wall hinges on both its dimensions and the chosen building materials. Below is a guide outlining the average price ranges:

Concrete: $20 to $25 per square foot.

Stone: $25 to $40 per square foot.

Brick: $30 to $50 per square foot.

There might be additional costs for permits, excavation, drainage systems, backfill materials, reinforcement, and any landscaping or finishing touches.

What type of retaining wall is best?

The “best” type of retaining wall really depends on your specific needs, including soil type, area topography, and aesthetic preferences. We have extensive experience working with various materials, including concrete blocks, natural stone, and pavers, and can recommend the ideal solution for your project.

How long do retaining walls last?

The lifespan of a retaining wall can vary significantly based on materials and construction quality. A well-built retaining wall by Eli’s Paver Patios, using materials like concrete blocks or natural stone, can last 50 years or more with proper maintenance.

Do you need planning permission for a retaining wall?

Yes, in many cases, planning permission may be required for a retaining wall, especially if it exceeds a certain height or is near property boundaries. Our team will coordinate all the applicable compliance and approvals for you as part of the project.

What is the best height for retaining wall?

The ideal height for a retaining wall depends on its purpose and the landscape’s needs. Retaining walls under 4 feet are typically manageable for most residential projects, but we can design and construct walls of any height, considering structural requirements and local regulations.

How deep is a retaining wall?

The depth of a retaining wall’s foundation should be at least as deep as the wall is tall, with additional depth for drainage. For walls under 4 feet, a foundation depth of 6-12 inches is often sufficient. Our experts ensure the foundation depth is appropriate for the wall’s height and the soil conditions.

What is the difference between a seat wall and a retaining wall?

The main difference is in their primary function: a retaining wall is designed to hold back soil and manage slopes, while a seat wall provides seating. However, we can design seat walls to also function as retaining walls, offering both utility and aesthetic appeal.

What is the best surface for a raised bed?

The best surface for a raised bed is one that provides good drainage and is level. We often recommend a mix of topsoil, compost, and other organic materials to promote healthy plant growth.

Paver Maintenance

Will weeds grow through the joints of my pavers?

This unfortunately is the most common maintenance challenge with patio pavers. While typically, weeds won’t grow from the soil all the way up through the pavers, weeds can take hold within the sand joint. Over time, dirt and seeds can make their way into the sand joint, and weeds can eventually sprout.

Fortunately, there are several effective ways to prevent this and keep your pavers in good condition. There are some anti-fungal sealers that can be applied to prevent any growth and protect your stones. Polymeric sand is another great preventative option. Polymeric sand is a special type of sand that uses polymers to bind the sand together, which helps prevent weed growth while also preventing the sand from washing out of the joints.

If these preventative measures fail, weed sprays or boiling water can be used to kill the plants before removal. Or, you can simply pull the weeds out as needed.

Do pavers need maintenance?

Pavers do need maintenance, but the amount of maintenance varies depending on the type of pavers. While the highest-quality pavers from companies like Belgard don’t need much maintenance, standard concrete pavers do require regular upkeep.

Cleaning stains, re-sanding the joints, fixing cracks, and sealing the surface are all necessary paver maintenance tips to promote the aesthetic appearance and longevity of your pavers.

How often should you sand and seal pavers?

You should seal your pavers at least once every three years and sand them as needed to replace missing granules and create a level surface.

How much does paver repair cost?

Paver maintenance services cost anywhere from $300 to $500 depending on the square footage of your pavers and their existing condition. Request a free quote for paver maintenance services from Eli’s Paver Patios to learn the exact costs you can anticipate.

Transforming Outdoor Spaces to Last a Lifetime

Our Process

From stunning custom paver patios and inviting driveways to enchanting firepits, and beyond, we specialize in creating outdoor havens that will transform your outdoor spaces into vacation-worthy living areas.