Bargain Hardscape is No Bargain

Within the last few days some interesting things have come up regarding brick pavers. First, while working at a clients home,I noticed the brick walks soldier course (the outside edge, that has a different pattern) separating a bit. My first thought was to add some polymer sand, until I looked closer. The contractor who installed the walk had not put in a retaining edge--not even the mortar type that crumbles after a year or two, here in MI. I was frustrated!

We've gone to great lengths to be trained and updated on the latest specifications. Not installing the edge and using slag sand and not using a layer of bedding sand! What else????

Did they excavate to the proper depth? Compact it properly? We pride ourselves on hardscape that lasts many years. Yes, it takes longer, more material to do things properly, and it costs more money to do.

What else is frustrating? A recent ad for paver installation for $7.50 per square foot. (I won't tell you who) Not sure what's included in this bargain basement price but the materials I listed above would cost more than $7.50 per square foot.

What does this mean for a consumer? Be careful, ask a company why their price is higher. The tendency is to think a company is too expensive. My job is to educate the consumer. Back to the paver walkway--it looked fine for almost two years. Maybe the company offered a three year warranty like we do. I think we'll have more discussion on this and similar issues. Thanks for letting me rant!