Hardscaping extends beyond just interlocking pavers to include various structural elements in outdoor spaces:

1. Retaining Walls: Useful for managing slopes and creating level areas.
2. Outdoor Kitchens: Incorporating cooking and dining areas into the landscape.
3. Fire Pits: Adding warmth and ambiance to outdoor living spaces.
4. Water Features: Such as fountains or ponds, enhancing the sensory experience of the landscape.
5. Pergolas and Gazebos: Providing shade and structure to outdoor areas.

Interlock Installation Process

1. Design and Planning

• Choose a design pattern that fits your needs, area, color, and style preferences
• Determine the project area and required materials
• Ensure proper drainage planning with a 1/8-1/4 inch drop per foot

2. Site Preparation

• Clear and excavate the area to a depth of 2-10 inches below existing grade, depending on usage
• Mark utilities and ensure safety measures are in place

3. Base Preparation

• Fill the excavated area with baserock
• Level and compact the base material
• For pedestrian traffic: 3-4 inches of compacted base
• For vehicular traffic: 12-14 inches of compacted base
• For heavy vehicles: 22-24 inches of compacted base

4. Edge Restraint Installation

• Install a stable edge restraint to prevent lateral movement of pavers and sand bedding
• Options include existing hard edges, vinyl molded restraints, or concrete restraints

5. Sand Bedding

• Spread a 1-inch layer of clean, sharp concrete sand as a bedding course
• Level the sand using screed pipes and a straight edge

6. Laying Pavers

• Start at a 90-degree corner or use a pre-set string as a guide
• Place pavers flat on the sand bed, working in a forward motion
• Follow the chosen pattern layout, checking frequently for accuracy
• Use a masonry saw to cut pavers as needed for edges and corners

7. Initial Compaction

• Spread a light layer of sand over the laid pavers
• Use a vibrating plate compactor to begin the interlocking process

8. Joint Filling

• Spread dry paver joint or masonry sand over the surface, about 1/4 inch deep
• Use the vibrating plate compactor to work the sand into the joints
• Repeat the process 2-3 times to ensure joints are completely filled

9. Final Compaction and Cleaning

• Make a final pass with the vibratory compactor
• Sweep off excess sand

10. Optional Sealing

• Apply a sealer to protect pavers from stains and stabilize joint sand (if desired)