Paving is a hard landscaping surface — individual pavers laid over a properly prepared base — used for driveways, paths, patios and courtyards to create a durable, low-maintenance area you can actually walk, sit and drive on.
Laying pavers as part of a landscaping project goes hand in hand these days, especially with people looking at laying pavers under a verandah, around a pool or creating paths throughout the garden in lieu of plain grey concrete. With an amazing array of materials, sizes, colours and patterns to consider, you can be forgiven for feeling a little daunted by the number of decisions you need to make when looking at having an area paved. Having over 45 years experience paving Adelaide gardens, Martyn Hand is not new to hearing this dilemma, but don't despair, help is at hand!
The number of decisions you need to make can be reduced by simply contacting Hand Made Gardens. Your budget and the size of the area to be paved will have a significant impact, so it's important to know before you start what dollar amount you're comfortable with for completing the project.
The dimensions or size, the thickness and texture of the paver will ultimately be chosen based on the type of traffic it will be subjected to and its location. All pavers should be sealed immediately after laying to protect them from staining. Dirt, leaves, bird droppings (which are surprisingly acidic) and chlorine if laid around a pool are all elements that can cause permanent staining, especially after it rains. Then there's human factors to take into account if you're looking at entertaining outdoors under a verandah — perhaps with a BBQ, many foods and red wine! For driveways, clay brick or a thick textured concrete paver is popular and strong enough to handle the weight of cars and trucks driving and turning on them. Large format natural stone pavers look amazing if your budget allows, especially under verandas or around a swimming pool.
You may also want to take a look at some of the most popular paving patterns chosen, keeping in mind the size of the area to be paved and your overall theme.
Don't despair — the local licensed paving contractors Adelaide residents have trusted since 1981 from Hand Made Gardens have paved thousands of situations using imported and local pavers, adding visual appeal to your garden, increasing its functionality and property value too.
Paving FAQ
What's the difference between paving and concreting?
Paving uses individual pavers laid over a compacted base, so it flexes slightly with minor ground movement and individual pavers can be lifted and reset if needed. Concrete is one continuous poured slab — harder to repair in sections if it ever cracks.
Do I need council approval to lay a paved path or patio?
Generally no for a standard ground-level path or patio — it's not something most councils regulate unless it affects stormwater drainage or is part of a larger development. Worth checking for your specific council if in doubt.
How much does paving cost in Adelaide?
It depends on paver choice, base preparation and site access, so it's quoted individually rather than a flat rate. A free on-site quote gives you a real number.
What paver materials are available?
Concrete, clay brick and natural stone pavers, chosen to suit your budget and the existing look of the garden.
Can pavers be used for a driveway?
Yes — clay brick and thick textured concrete pavers are strong enough for regular car and truck traffic and are a popular driveway choice. A driveway needs a more heavily compacted base than a path or patio to handle the extra weight, which is factored into the quote.
How long does paving last?
A properly prepared base determines lifespan more than the paver material itself — done right, paving lasts decades with little more than an occasional re-sand of the joints.
Would you like an area paved? If you know what your budget is and have something in mind, ask us to quote on it.
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