FAQs
A: Begin by considering how you want to use your space and what aesthetic you’re aiming for. Browse our Gallery for inspiration and check our Recommended Products page for top sellers. Need advice? Stop by or call—we’re happy to help!
A: Costs vary by material choice, but we offer competitive pricing with a wider selection than big-box stores. Our team can provide estimates and cost comparisons to help you stay within budget.
A: Many DIYers successfully complete these projects with the right tools and preparation! We offer DIY guides, equipment rentals, bagged gravel, sealers, and everything else you need to complete your project from start to finish. Check out our DIY page.
A: Most materials are calculated by square footage. Online Square Footage Calculators can help guide your design and order requirements. Our sales team is also happy to assist, but we’ll need some basic measurements to get started:
<> Patios, walkways, and driveways – Length and width (square or rectangle), base and height (triangle), radius (circle, the distance from center to edge of circle)
<> Gravel – Length, width, and desired depth of the area to be covered
<> Retaining walls – Length and height of the wall
For specific patterns, please visit our office or check manufacturer websites for product-specific patterns.
A: There are several different ways to install pavers. The most common method is a sand-set installation, where a compacted gravel base is topped with a thin layer of bedding sand, providing a stable surface for setting the pavers.
For most DIY projects we would recommend using compacted, 1/4″- crushed gravel, which gives you you a gravel and fines (sand) mixture in one layer, making it compactable yet still pliable enough to adjust and set pavers within:
The right base is essential for stability, longevity, and proper drainage. Below are common base material recommendations for various hardscape applications:
<> Patios, walkways and smaller retaining walls (<3′): compacted 3″ layer of 1/4″-
<> Retaining walls 3-4′ tall: compacted 3-4″ layer of 1/4″-, another 1″ layer above of compacted 1/4″- or builders sand to screed.
<> Driveways & Retaining walls 4’+ tall: compacted 6″ layer of 5/8″-, another 1″ layer above of compacted 1/4″- or builders sand to screed.
<> Permeable Pavers: Variable, please consult manufacturers specifications or engineer
More info available on our Base Gravel from the Natural Stone, Sand & Gravel Page for more information and help with calculation.
A: To keep it simple, 1 cubic yard of sand or gravel typically covers ~ 100 square feet at a 3-inch depth. You can use Online Gravel Calculators to help with your measurements if you know the length, width, and desired depth of your project. Alternatively, we can assist in calculations or you can use the following formulas to determine the amount of base or decorative gravel needed for your specific project:
<> HOW TO CALCULATE CUBIC YARDS NEEDED:
(Square Footage × 0.01) × (Depth in Inches ÷ 3) = Cubic Yards Needed
<> HOW TO CALCULATE LBS NEEDED:
Cubic Yards Needed × 2,700 = Lbs Needed
<> HOW TO CALCULATE BAGS NEEDED:
Lbs Needed ÷ Weight per Bag (lbs) = Bags Needed
<> HOW TO CALCULATE SQ FT FOR PATIOS, WALKWAYS & DRIVEWAYS:
Length x Width = Sq ft Needed (square or rectangle)
π × Radius² = Sq Ft Needed (circle; radius is half of the diameter)
(Base × Height) ÷ 2 = Sq ft Needed (triangle)
A. Yes, When preparing your base, be mindful to extend your base beyond the edge of the installed pavers or wall blocks. Below are some Industry Recommendations for Gravel Base Extension:
<> Patios & Walkways: Extend the compacted gravel base at least 6 inches beyond the edge of the pavers. This provides stability and prevents edge pavers from shifting over time.
<> Driveways: Extend the compacted gravel base at least 12 inches beyond the edge of the pavers. This accommodates vehicle loads and helps prevent edge failures.
<> Retaining Walls: Extend the compacted gravel base at least 6 inches beyond the front and back of the wall. Additionally, the base should typically be at least 6 inches deep, or more depending on wall height and soil conditions.
Functionality: Will they support vehicle traffic, or are they for a walkway or patio?
Aesthetic: Smooth, textured, or tumbled finish? Modern or rustic style?
Size & Shape: Large slabs create a sleek look, while smaller pavers allow for intricate patterns.
Color & Tone: How will the color complement your home and surroundings?
Permeability: Do you need water drainage solutions like permeable pavers?
Durability: While all of the natural stone we carry is durable, variations in thickness and individual stone size may make some options more suitable for certain projects than others.
Size: Consider whether you prefer the look of larger or smaller stones. Larger stones result in fewer joints, while smaller stones create a more intricate pattern. Some customers use the spaces between stones to introduce greenery with a ground cover. Some may opt for decorative sand or gravel, or polymeric jointing sand for a low-maintenance, weed-free solution.
Texture: Options include natural cleft, tumbled (softened edges), or dimensional each offering a distinct aesthetic.
Color & Luster: Natural stone comes in a range of colors and surface finishes, with each piece offering unique characteristics. Some stones have more uniform tones, while others showcase striking variations. Some stones, like certain granites and quartzites, have a natural sparkle due to embedded minerals like mica or quartz. Others have a more muted, matte appearance. Consider how the stone’s natural hues will complement your project’s surroundings.
Maintenance: Some stones can be sealed to help prevent staining and erosion, depending on the desired look and level of protection.
Height & Structural Needs: Taller walls may require engineered blocks and geogrid reinforcement.
Style: Do you want a clean, modern look or a more natural, stacked-stone appearance?
Function: Will the wall hold back soil, create seating, or define a landscape feature?
Drainage: Proper drainage behind the wall prevents shifting and failure.
Functionality: Do you need edging to keep pavers in place, define separate materials in your outdoor space, or just to add another element of interest?
PAVER EDGING helps maintain the integrity of your installation by keeping pavers securely in place while providing a clean separation between the pavers and surrounding landscape.
LANDSCAPE EDGING is taller and serves both a functional and decorative purpose, helping to define and separate different landscape areas.
Material: Landscape edging is available in rust-free aluminum & steel which develops a rusted patina over time and exposure to the elements. Paver edging is available in plastic or aluminum. You can also incorporate natural stone or concrete pavers into your projects as borders.
Flexibility: Do you need rigid straight lines or a flexible material for curves?
Durability: Consider weather resistance, rust prevention, and ease of installation.
Durability & Maintenance: Decorative rock is a long-lasting, low-maintenance alternative to options like mulch, which decomposes over time and requires regular replenishing.
Aesthetic & Functionality: You can select a color and size that complements your space. Smaller stones are more comfortable underfoot, while larger rocks create a bold visual contrast.
Drainage & Weed Control: Decorative rock allows for excellent drainage. Using landscape fabric underneath helps prevent weeds, while landscape edging keeps the material contained and provides a clean, polished finish.
A: The stability of a retaining wall depends on several factors. For anything beyond a small garden bed, we recommend using commercial-grade retaining wall materials designed for structural support. For walls taller than 4 feet, consult a qualified engineer for proper design and structural guidance.
To improve durability and prevent failure, GeoTextiles like Drainage Fabric and GeoGrid help stabilize soil, control erosion, and improve drainage, reducing outward pressure on the wall.
A: The choice between natural stone and concrete pavers depends on the look and functionality you want for your project. Both are durable, versatile, and well-suited for the Pacific Northwest climate. Natural Stone offers a unique, timeless aesthetic with variations in color and texture. Concrete Pavers provide a more uniform look and often come in a wider range of styles and finishes. Cost varies by product, but in many cases, the price per square foot is comparable.
A: For regular stock material, availability is typically 3-10 days if it’s not already in our yard. Special orders generally take 1-3 weeks, depending on vendor location and inventory. Some specialty items may have longer lead times, so we recommend calling ahead for the most accurate estimate.
A: The weight of your materials depends on the type and quantity selected. While a few blocks or pavers may fit in your personal vehicle, often times delivery is necessary due to weight and over size. A full pallet of products typically weighs well over one ton.
If you plan to pick up materials yourself, consider your vehicle’s weight capacity and whether it is suited for transporting heavy building supplies. Hardscape materials can be abrasive and may damage interiors if not properly secured. If needed, materials can be picked up in multiple trips or arranged to be delivered.
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.
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.
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.
Concrete pavers are more than twice as strong as poured-in-place concrete, with an average strength of 8,000 PSI (lbs per square inch) or more. For driveways, it’s best to use pavers smaller than 10 inches to ensure durability and stability. While larger, driveway-rated slabs are available, they are typically special order items and not stocked regularly.
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.
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.
A: Yes, we rent plate compactors, paver splitters, hand tampers, and paver setting tools. We do not currently have rental saws for cutting pavers. No, we do not offer paver cutting services. Visit our Equipment Rentals Page for a list of our rental equipment and rates.
A: No, Pavingstone Supply is only 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.
A: We are available to deliver Monday – Friday during regular business hours.
A: Once your order is finalized, we’ll coordinate a delivery date based on product availability and our schedule. We are available to deliver Monday – Friday during regular business hours. During peak seasons (Spring and Summer), we are typically booked 1-2 weeks out and cannot offer same-day delivery.
A: While you may request a preferred delivery time, we cannot guarantee exact timing due to factors like traffic, weather, and unexpected vehicle issues. We can provide the best estimated delivery window the day before or the morning of your delivery. Deliveries in this industry can be fluid, but we do our best to accommodate your needs.
A: Customers must complete a Delivery Form, which can be Submitted Online, submitted via email to info@PavingstoneSupply.com (photo or PDF), or in person. This form allows you to specify the drop-off location and provides contact info so our driver can reach you when en route.
A: The type of truck we use depends on the size and material of your order:
<> Small deliveries (bulk gravel, bagged gravel, or very small pallet orders) are handled by our small dump trucks.
<> Standard deliveries (typically up to 10 pallets) are made using our Ford International flatbed truck (approx. 30′-40′) equipped with a truck-mounted forklift.
<> Large volume deliveries (10+ pallets) may require multiple trips or be delivered using our Freightliner truck and trailer (approx. 50′), also equipped with a forklift. High-volume orders may be eligible for direct manufacturer delivery, depending on availability and location.
Our truck-mounted forklift (Moffett) requires at least 10 feet of clearance (width and height) and cannot operate on steep slopes or stairs.
A: Almost all items are delivered on wooden pallets. Even large “super bags” of gravel are transferred on a wooden pallet base. Base sand and gravel sold by the yard (in bulk) are transported in self-tipping bins, which leave a pile of gravel at the pre-determined drop-off location. Gravel bins are not left on-site. We recommend laying down a tarp or barrier before delivery to make cleanup easier.
A: Delivery fees vary by location. Orders requiring ferry transport will include the ferry fee. We deliver throughout Washington and the greater PNW. If your zip code isn’t listed in our Delivery Charged List, contact us to confirm availability and pricing.
For more details, visit our Delivery Services Page.
Let’s Get Started
Making outdoor dreams a reality since 1996 — Pavingstone Supply is Seattle’s go-to for hardscape materials.