FAQs

Q: I’m overwhelmed! Where do I even start with my project?
A: Think about your dreams, goals, and ideas for your space. How do you want to use the space and what kind of aesthetics are you hoping to achieve? The best place to get inspiration and ideas for your project is to take a stroll through the Gallery. We also have a Recommended Products page where you can get an idea of our top sellers and recommendations. And, you can always call in or stop by our store to talk with our knowledgeable staff!

Q: What should I expect for costs on my project?
A: Material costs depend largely on the products chosen. We offer prices that are competitive with major home hardware chains–but with a vastly superior selection. Our staff can walk you through costs differences and provide estimates so you know what to expect going into your project, and are happy to work through different cost options so you can get what you need without breaking the bank.

Q: How feasible is it to build a patio/wall/driveway by myself?
A: How difficult a project will be depends on several factors, but for folks who care and are willing to to put the work in, creating a beautiful and correctly done project is absolutely achievable. We offer DIY access to splitters, setters, bagged gravel, sealants, edge restraints, and guides–the real deal! Checkout our D-I-Y page for more information.

Q: How do I calculate how much material I need for my project or a specific pattern?
A: We’re here to help! Most material can be calculated based on the square footage of your project. If you are looking to replicate a specific pattern, or just looking for inspiration, we have different patterns you can peruse in our office, or you can check out the manufacturers’ websites for product-specific patterns.

Q: What do I put under my pavers? How do I calculate how much base material I need?
A: There are several different ways to install pavers. The most traditional and most common is to do a “sand set” installation, where you lay a base of compacted gravel, and then a thin bedding layer, and then the pavers. For most DIY projects we recommend a 3″ compacted layer of 1/4″- crushed gravel, which essentially gives you your gravel and fines mixture in one layer. For more information, including calculating material, please visit our Base Gravels page.

Q: How can I build a retaining wall that won’t collapse?
A: The complexity of retaining walls depends on several factors. If your wall is retaining more than just a short garden bed, we recommend that you take a look at material that is commercially graded for retaining walls, as they will offer more structural support and be less likely to buckle under pressure. Geotextiles like drainage fabric and geogrid are integral to preventing system failure, and if you are planning on building a wall taller than 4 ft tall, please consult with a qualified engineer for your project.

Q: Should I use natural stone or concrete pavers? Which one is better?
A: The decision on whether to use natural stone or concrete pavers for your project ultimately depends on what appearance and usage you had in mind for your project. Both options are durable and versatile in use, and can withstand the conditions of the Pacific Northwest. Cost can depend on which product is chosen, but we find that square footage cost is generally comparable.

Q: Lead time–How soon can I get my material?
A: For regular stock material, we can usually get it in 3-10 days if we do not already have it in the yard. For special orders you can expect 1-3 weeks depending on the location and inventory from the vendor. Please keep in mind that some special order items have longer lead times, so please call ahead to get a better estimate on timing.

Q: How heavy is the material? Should I arrange for delivery, or pick up the materials myself?
A: Weight will of course depend on the scope of your project. A handful of blocks or pavers you might be able to carry in your own vehicle, but a pallet-sized load will likely require delivery via Pavingstone. Most full pallets weigh over one ton. It is helpful to know the weight capacity of your vehicle when placing a pick up order so that you can plan accordingly. Please note that most material can be picked up in batches if you are unable to take it all at once.

Q: What is your delivery process?
A: We have several options for delivery depending on material and quantity. Once you have your order finalized, we can work with you to schedule a delivery to your home or job site. Cost is dependent on location, and we will deliver products throughout Washington. Scheduling depends on the availability of material as well as our delivery schedule; please note that during the busy season, we are typically booked out by a week and a half, and do not offer same day delivery. Visit our delivery service page.

Q: Are the lower priced pavers inferior to the more expensive ones?
A: No, all pavers go through the same process and are graded to fit industry standards and specifications. The prices vary on location of the manufacturer, tumbling, texture, and special color orders – to name a few factors.

Q: Do weeds grow between the pavers? And if so, how can I prevent it?
A: Weeds can germinate between pavers from wind-blown seeds lodged in the joints. They typically do not grow from the bedding sand, base or soil. Weeds can be removed by hand or with herbicides. Take care in using herbicides so that adjacent vegetation is not damaged and use environmentally-conscious products whenever possible. Polymeric Sand is a practical solution for weed control when you install pavers and can offer a longer-term solution to preventing weeds and insect infestations. Visit our Accessories page for details on Polymeric Sand.

Q: When do I need to use geotextile (filter) fabrics ?
A: Filter fabrics are helpful and necessary in several situations: if the soil is soft, water saturated, has a high content of silts or clay, or to separate layers of aggregate or material. These fabrics can delay the rutting caused by heavy loads and especially in the rainy PNW help mitigate soil saturation disasters. We also carry weed control fabrics that can be used to help prevent weed growth under decorative pebbles and rock areas. Visit our Other Products page for details on Geogrid and Filter Fabrics.

Q: How strong are the pavers? Can I use them for a driveway?
Concrete pavers have over two times the strength of concrete that’s been poured in place. On average, pavers have a strength of 8,000 PSI (pounds per square inch), or more and as a general rule, you want to use pavers that are smaller than 10 in for driveways.

Q: Do I need to seal my pavers after installing them? What if I need to clean them?
A: Applying a sealant to your pavers after installation is always recommended as it helps protect the pavers from stains, fading, and moisture seeping in. We carry several options for sealants depending on what type of finish you desire; again, what you do will depend on your distinctive project and unique situation. It is highly recommended that you clean the pavers before applying a sealant. We have several cleaner options to fit your needs. Visit our Other Products page for details on sealers and cleaners.

Q: What is efflorescence? / What is this white deposit on my pavers?
A: Efflorescence appears as a whitish haze or film on the concrete product (usually pavers) and typically appears after installation or over time. The product is not defective; efflorescence is a natural chemical reaction that can occur in all concrete material. The condition will usually correct itself with time and exposure to the elements, however there are cleaners that are available to remove efflorescence in a more timeline manner. Visit our Other Products page for details on cleaners for efflorescence.

Q: Does Pavingstone Supply rent equipment or offer a paver cutting service?
A: Yes, we rent compactors, splitters, tampers, and setting tools. We do not rent out saws for cutting pavers or offer a paver cutting service. Visit our DIY page for a full list of our rental equipment options and rates.

Q: Does Pavingstone Supply do installations?
A: Pavingstone Supply is a materials supplier and does not offer any contracting or installation services. However, we do offer contractor referrals for outstanding installers in the greater Western Washington area. Please visit Contractor Referrals.

Q: What days are you open and what are your hours?
A: Click here for location and hours of operation.