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Walkways and patios that stay flat through winter

Brick and paver walkways, patios and borders built on a compacted, drained base.

  • 8 years of masonry experience
  • Based in Everett, MA
  • Real photos of our own work

Or call (857) 335-0897

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The short answer

Why do brick and paver walkways heave or sink?

Walkways move when the base under them was not dug deep enough, not compacted, or does not drain. Water sits under the pavers, freezes and lifts them, then they settle unevenly in spring. A properly excavated and compacted gravel base is what keeps them flat.

Walkways & Patios in Greater Boston

A walkway or patio is only as good as what is under it. In New England, a shallow or poorly compacted base lets water collect and freeze, and that is what makes pavers heave, rock and sink. We dig out, build up a compacted gravel base, set edging so nothing creeps, and then lay brick or pavers in the pattern you want.

Herringbone brick, running bond, borders in a contrasting color, curves, circle inlays and a granite step where the path meets the house. Whether it is a front walk or a patio out back, it gets the same base.

Signs it is time to call

01

Pavers rocking underfoot

The base has washed out or settled. Resetting on fresh base fixes it.

02

Puddles that never drain

The surface needs pitch, and the base needs to drain.

03

Weeds and spreading joints

Joints need proper sand and edging to stay tight.

The pattern is what you see. The base is what keeps it level. We spend our time on both.

How it works

Our Walkways & Patios Process

01

Lay it out

Shape, pattern, borders and where water should go, agreed before digging.

02

Excavate and base

Dig to the right depth, then gravel base placed and compacted in layers.

03

Set the pattern

Edging, then brick or pavers laid, cut and set to pitch.

04

Lock the joints

Joint sand swept in and compacted, the site cleaned up.

Our own walkways & patios work

Every photo is a job we did. Tap one to see it full size.

Walkways & Patios: Frequently Asked Questions

Clay brick has the classic look of older Greater Boston homes. Concrete pavers come in more shapes and colors and are often easier on the budget. Both last when the base is built right.
Often yes. If the pavers are in good shape, we can lift them, rebuild the base and relay them.
Herringbone interlocks well and resists shifting, which is why it is popular for walkways and driveways. Running bond and basket weave suit lighter foot traffic.
Yes. A granite step or landing at the end of the walk is a common part of these jobs and ties the walkway into the entry.