How To Install Concrete for Paver Edge Restraint

[@ThaiRoney]

The concrete edging doesn’t last , it will crack and start to loosen up after a few years especially in cold climates. Concrete is ugly also. If you properly pin the edge with aluminum edging, it will last many many years . Plastic also works if you using long enough pins . I use rebar pins that’s 24” and have no issues after 7 years. Plus you get a clean transition from pavers to whatever landscape or hard scape. Especially with artificial grass.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

All due respect, I completely disagree.... But to each his own. I will never go through the effort of trying to keep plastic edging still while hammering multiple 2 ft rebar spikes through it..... Glad you have had no issue but neither have I with using concrete. Literally hundreds of installs with almost no issues. I get comments like this a lot about concrete, the only problem is they are wrong about the concrete edging failing. Unless it was done very poorly... But hey, we can agree to disagree and people can choose for themselves... ✌

[@salihom59]

I live in the Pacific Northwest, an area known for rain. Drainage is key and critical when hardscaping with pavers. My paver patio that was installed with the recommended 1 inch of sand between the gravel base and the pavers has already started to leach out thru the plastic edging, causing leveling issues after only three years and I think it's only going to get worse. Maybe in a drier climate plastic or aluminum edging would work better, but not here. And as far as the transition from pavers to your landscape, I think he clearly showed how it will be very good once the new grass establishes itself.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

@@salihom59 I'm sorry to hear about the edge failing. I see it absolutely everywhere that has plastic / steel edging. I doesn't hold up. The edging lifts and the bedding material migrates under and out, causing the border pavers to sink. If you are going to repair it, I recommend pulling up the entire border and the sand. Unfortunately because the rest of the bedding material is gravel / sand, you either have to use the same material or... excavate some of the existing base material out, lay geotextile fabric under and up the side of the excavation, then backfill with the open grade base stone along the entire border. Then use the chip stone to lay the pavers on. Then concrete the edge as you see here in this video. That will last you many years compared to re fixing it with sand. But even if you decide to use the sand again, concrete will hold up 3x - 5x as long.... ✌

[@davekushman2363]

@@TheChristianHardscaper completely agree, I’ve gone back after 3-4 years passed when the edges were retained with concrete and had to lift bricks from the edge inwards to open a few spots to drill for pergola posts they decided to add. I wasn’t expecting lifting the bricks to be an issue or needing to cut anything so I didn’t bring a saw with me and after an hour of trying to lift the border brick from the inside of the pad as not to disturb the edge retainment I finally had to fold and bust out the rock bar and smash that concrete out as there was no give to it at all. I’m in Canada so freeze thaw is brutal on the ground if the concrete was to fail anywhere it would be where I am.

[@davekushman2363]

I also do add chopped fibreglass strand to the concrete when I mix it, no real exact ratio just a handful or so per bag. I’m not positive it actually does all that much to help but I figure it definitely can’t hurt and hasn’t caused me any problems

[@stevekennedy3964]

I have done a few of these in the past. We always used stone dust. I have just finished my own patio and used the stone. It works better and no water build up under pavers. I always used the concrete along the edges, like that! Good job with this patio you guys did, props to you and Big Ben!

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Thanks for the feedback, the open grade base method is an absolute game changer. So much better than gravel and stone dust / sand. I'm glad you gave it a try and are seeing the benefits! The concrete on the edge is key to the longevity of the patio for sure... We had a blast with this project ✌

[@TomwithaDream]

True craftsman. Your customers are certainly lucky to have found you.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Thank you, I appreciate that ✌🏻

[@FabioDadio]

Bro, you saved me money, time and all my hard work! Bless up for the video

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Glad to hear it, thanks for the feedback! God Bless ✌

[@surebrah]

Doing my own paver project between the pool and equipment shed. I have used all your techniques (even bought an evolution wet saw on Amazon, works great). Thank you so much for putting all this info out there, way better than Belgard's black and white install sheet.

[@jupiter99ish76]

This video was very helpful to see what the final product will look like around the pool, thank you .

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Glad to hear it! ✌

[@MrShakNasti]

Great video, thanks for putting this together - I alseady bought the plastic pieces and nails - but I might try this method on my next project!

[@josemena7644]

I’m about to take on my front porch project, thanks to you and Benny, and all your knowledge sharings… Thank You

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Nice, sounds like a cool project. I'm glad to hear the videos are helpful. Good luck!

[@buckfrancis7859]

Glad I watched this before I did my paver walkway. Looking for more videos to make sure I have a strong walk in the end.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Glad to hear it, plenty more videos on my channel that I'm sure will help! God luck with your project! ✌

[@jasonwells131]

I’ll be doing the concrete edging. Thank you for the info.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Nice, that's the way to go. Good luck!

[@joejoe-lb6bw]

You were great in The Accountant movie. And, now your great in hardscaping. Wow.

[@bobzitnik2816]

You saved the day! Thanks

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Nice! 🤣✌

[@oscarsaldana90]

Hey man I love you videos I start working on Landscaping this year I love this kind of work

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

That's awesome man, It is a very rewarding job to have. I love being outside every day and helping to change peoples landscape! Stick with it and it will pay off brother! ✌

[@mikeutubename]

Best hardscape channel out there! Do you think concrete is better than edgecrete with fibers in it?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Thank you! I think the edgecrete is probably better, but WAY more expensive. I think the regular concrete works just fine. ✌

[@adrianlouviere7650]

Thanks for your guidance and information. Now on to my project...

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

My pleasure, good luck with your project! ✌

[@justme-qh3gl]

Wow, nice!. We will be doing a small patio in Santa Fe, NM. There is no way I'd use other than concrete for edging longevity. There is no way I will put long nails in the ground, then cross my fingers. I like doing things right the first time.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

I completely hear you, the plastic edging and stakes just do not hold up... This works great. Good luck! ✌

[@dogman4100]

Thoroughly enjoyed your video. Very informative, and very helpful.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Glad you enjoyed it! ✌

[@royspeakman1157]

Brilliant ! Yes totally agree !

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

✌

[@josephrottina1901]

Job turned out great brother.👍🏻🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Thanks brother!

[@Travelingforlife]

I would love to see how you handle installing pavers on a sloped area. Im guessing a border of block installed at the edge in the ground with concrete. Excellent work!

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

You are correct, a steep slope would call for a block retaining wall to level it off and then we would lay the pavers to the top of the wall cap. ✌

[@Travelingforlife]

@@TheChristianHardscaper nice work bud and great to see men doing great work with pride!

[@willnutz1969]

Great videos. Appreciate all the helpful advice & tips. Keep up the great work!

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

No problem at all, thanks for the feedback and support! ✌

[@peterbsims]

Thanks, bro. This video and info will help me this summer.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Glad it helped, good luck with the project!

[@tonyabro5714]

Good job

[@devonbegin8279]

Do you put the poly in the cracks and compact first or do you put it In After you put the concrete wedge on?

[@AY-cj9kp]

Great video bud, I am doing exactly that except I also placed 3/4 steel angle to support and reinforce concrete on the perimeter.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Thank you, that steel will lock that edge in nice and tight. ✌

[@deerslayer4204]

If budget allows use rebar in that edge. Nice job on the install as always.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

I totally agree, rebar does nothing but help. Thank you ✌

[@gregoryc5989]

Great work, appreciation you sharing the knowledge.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

My pleasure!

[@thebigroy]

Been watching your videos. I live in Oregon. Think open grade base (no sand) and concrete edging is the way to go.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Nice, thanks for the support! Open Grade Base and concrete edging will not let you down. Such a great method, good luck! ✌

[@gardyjeanplong3638]

Thanks Christian too bloke be doing the edging tmrw on My pavers would.sand suffice or road base sand cement mix a must thanks

[@oxanamodna3186]

Good video

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Thanks

[@MrDdrake44]

Great video. i like there is one continuous point of contact with the edges. Newbie question. Does the concrete slide away from the edge ever?

[@amrielkissner906]

Is it advisable to reuse the topsoil excavated from the patio area?

[@leemehlhorn]

As always you guys do great work! I agree with you about the plastic edging and I wish I would have used the grade base years ago instead of sand. The biggest issue I get with sand even when using sealer is ants. Which even if you treat they still manage to destroy the base with their digging. Next time its grade base for sure. Keep up the good worth guys!

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Thank you very much! And I always forget to bring that up when talking about the benefits. Ants really do destroy even the best paver installs if done with sand. Great point. There are so many benefits to the open grade base, that is why I try to focus on it so much in these videos. ✌

[@1jbegic]

@@TheChristianHardscaper I am a homeowner who likes to do stuff arround the house my self. I take time and don't rush with my projects and try to do the best to my abilities. I did small 100sqft patio in my front yard from the bricks I had. I have used plastic edging and sand for the base (I wish I didn't). The edging was somewhat wavy to begin with but after a few 100F temp. and many more in high 80/90s/ after ~3 years, that plastic edging is in worst condition now. Either way, I am looking to remodel my backyard and thinking of doing the pavers my self and transition into the front yard. This is going to be adventures project of some 900sqft in total, but I will use conrete edging

[@mathusvaiaoga9787]

Most effective way I’ve seen is using a solid concrete border. About 3-5” wide away from the edge of the pavers and 4” deep set up forms and pour concrete right along the edge of the pavers. It also allows you to use an edger when cutting the grass. The grass gets well established all the way up to the edge of the concrete border. If you don’t like the color of plain concrete you can always use a dye to make the concrete border at the edge match the color of the pavers. Last but not least don’t forget your relief joints so the cracks don’t show.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

That would definitely hold everything in nice and tight. I just don't really like the idea of having a strip of concrete that is visible around the entire patio and I'm not sure if the majority of customers would either. This method works very good and has treated me well. I hear you on the idea of that though, it really would work great, just not something I would implement. ✌

[@P-turcios1984]

Nice bro I ‘m planning to do my own patio

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Nice, Good luck brother!

[@king4brisbane]

Maybe a dumb question, but should you put concrete edging in before or after plate compacting? Thanks buddy.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Not dumb at all, the best way is to compact right after you concrete so the bond does not break. But if you can't do that, you need to concrete first and compact after. Just be careful around the edges so you don't mess it up. ✌

[@johnbayers3770]

I like your method, I’m going back and fixing plastic edging on my patio, going to use concrete this time…I’m in Canada and it freezes regularly, any thoughts on how the concrete should be done in this climate?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Nice, it will hold much better in my opinion... And I live in Massachusetts, USA. We get very cold weather as well as many freeze / thaw cycles throughout the winter. If you follow what we did in this video, you will be all set ✌

[@altruism8637]

the fact you left lower grade outside the pavers to accomodate for several inches of import soil makes a strong chance of turf grass success. At first i was like idk about this. You should show pics of the successful grass like the following summer in the highest heat temps to show grass can handle that.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Yea, we always lay our pavers slightly above the grade and prep the outer edge to get as much soil as possible for the grass to grow well. Sometimes it doesn't though... There may end up being a couple inches along the edge that doesn't grow great. But what I like to say is that I prefer my edges never sink and have a skinny strip around the edge that doesnt grow then to have my edges fail and sink but grass grows fine. Tough to deal with I know but holding the pavers tight is #1.

[@PuWang-f5d]

Great content as alway. Will you recommend using concrete edge restrain for paver driveway or should go all the way to concrete curb if the drive way has more than 2 percent slope to the side ?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Thank you, I would at least recommend digging deeper to be able to use more concrete and also put rebar in it. But a solid curb would be a great idea also. ✌

[@sebastiancannavo8786]

very good

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Thanks

[@jfitz32]

What's your thoughts on SAKRETE Fiber-reinforced concrete mix?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

That would work even better, just not completely necessary in my opinion. ✌

[@sleepingbear8620]

Big fan of your work, as i am doing a big paver patio around my house. I'm trying to find out about doing a sealer on the pavers do you recommend or have any videos on the subject?

[@stevekissel3822]

Have you considered the aluminum edge restraint for loose base from PaveTool? It doesn't use spikes it uses an "angle iron" looking restraint...Best, Steve

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

I mentioned that very briefly in the video. I used it once, was not impressed at all. The spikes get hung up sometimes while setting them and it is out of control how expensive it is. I like PaveTool products a lot, but man they are ridiculous with their prices.... That edging literally can cost up to 10x the amount of concrete... And I don't think it holds up close to as well down the road. The industry pushes plastic, steel and aluminum edging so much because of how much profit they make from products like that. Very cheap to produce and marked up ten fold. I refuse to give them my money. I have used concrete on every patio / walkway install for 8+ years. I truly think it's the best option out there, for the pavers and your wallet. ✌

[@greatdealproducts6894]

have you ever used any of the permaedge or edgecrete options that come with fiber and/or polymer mixed with the concrete?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

I have used permaedge once on a small application... It seemed to be a good product but way to expensive. These companies producing those products are making a ridiculous amount of money, I refuse to put the money in their pockets. Been using regular concrete for many many years now with no problems. It is all about doing it the correct way. ✌

[@leogonzalez8165]

first of all I love your videos man and we can always be agree or disagree about something but the important is the end result, I do pavers in florida we do drive ways and we always use concrete for the edges not the way that you do but is almost the same concept by the way say hi to beny haha

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Thanks man! We all do have our own style and do things a bit differently, but you are right, the end result is all that matters! ✌

[@roshanmahavithanage6312]

Awesome video! Any type of edging is a rip off! You have to buy edging spikes separately. This is absolutely perfect, concrete over the rocks will great a nice long lasting bold and help with drainage as well.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Thank you and I totally agree! ✌

[@adibella47]

How long before you can cover the concrete edging with dirt? Would a few days suffice or does it need to cure fully before covering?

[@ivans613]

Can you cover the concrete with top soil immediately after you install it so that it holds in the polymeric sand when you compact the patio?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

You sure can ✌

[@robertkerr229]

Now I'm wasting time looking for 4-way corners. 🙂 On my DIY patio with stone pavers (inspired by Christian Hardscaper), I'm doing 4x8x16 cinder block foundation wall in trench around the edge before the gravel comes in. This should retain all the gravel. Before anything I'm digging a 14" trench for drain below the patio area to pull off any water underneath and off to the street.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

🤣 Nice! Sounds like a cool project, I'm glad the videos have helped you with getting it going. Good luck with your project, it is all about proper planning and it seems like you are doing that well ✌

[@romniou]

Do you lay polymeric sand before or after the concrete edging? What is the best process? thanks!

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Either at the same time or a day or so after. Never before because it will shift the pavers. But 90% of the time we do it a day after we concrete.

[@woodyslandscape9268]

What song are you using at the end of your videos? I like it , catchy beat

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

It's a song from (epidemic sound) called "Mountains". Made by (Damma Beatz) I love the beat of it. Super chill.

[@ChevelleLife70]

Did you leave the remainder crushed stone that was outside the concrete that you laid down? And just put topsoil over it?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

I always take as much stone out as possible after we concrete without undermining it. Then we fold the fabric we use over the exposed stone and cover that with top soil up to grade.

[@rebeccaliu5502]

what do you do against the house? do you use cement? what happens if you are up against a fence? can you use cement there as well?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

We leave about a 1 inch gap up against the house and fill it with the small chip stone we use for the bedding material, you don't need cement up against the house. And yes, you can cement up against a fence just give yourself enough space to do so.

[@GeorgeB-vz2wz]

Anything wrong with putting the polymeric sand right up against the house? ✌️

[@ellis_1046]

thank you!

[@1jbegic]

When you work on a patio, and digging up the trench, how much room do you allow yourself from the edge of patio to where you trench ends, which you fill in with your open grade rocks? Based on your videos, I am guessing about 16 inches?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Typically 8-10 inches but sometimes we go more. Better safe than sorry, over excavation / backfilling never hurts

[@humbertoburgos7577]

Thanks for your videos. That’s a lot of great information in there. I’m planning on doing the same thing at home and just wanted to confirm a few details. From what I see you lay a couple of inches of 3/4 stone, compact it, and then you put down the landscaping fabric. Now, after that I think you don’t compact the rest of the 3/4 or the 3/8 on top after screeding. Is that right? Also, do you use polymer sand afterwards?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Yes sir! that is all correct. You can compact the 3/4 once backfilled and leveled off to the correct height just to settle it all in nicely, but not completely necessary as long as it is 6 inches or less and if you be sure to compact the pavers when polymeric sanding, which yes. I do use polymeric sand on 95% of my paver projects. ✌

[@humbertoburgos7577]

@@TheChristianHardscaper awsome. Thanks!

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

No problem, good luck!

[@Chris-jj8lk]

Do you apply the paver locking sand before you add the concrete edges?

[@manjarikapashi9195]

I wanted to know when do we choose to have a retaining wall for a patio install. I have had few people suggesting retaining walls and some don’t. I am confused can you pl advice Thanks

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

My opinion would be any grade that slopes more than 1 inch per 4 feet (1/4 slope) should have a retaining wall to help level the area.

[@ivans613]

Would it make sense to put some sort of fabric separator on top of the clear stone at the edge before you put topsoil for the grass? That way topsoil doesn't leach into your base at all. Thanks!

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Yes, putting some kind of fabric over the stone is a very good idea ✌

[@tylergarza]

All they have at my supplier in terms of crushed limestone is 1.5" coarse for the base and 5/8 chips for the bedding layer. People around here are still using 1.5" minus base and paver sand for the bedding. Do you think that you could use 1.5 coarse and 5/8 chip for an open graded system?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

If you can't find anything smaller, then yes. That will work. It may take more time to screed because of the big pieces, but it is possible.

[@tctulloch]

This is a good video. I have pavers installed last year and I have the concrete edging break in a couple of places. Should I have have the entire edge redone or is there a way to fix a break?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Thank you, have the pavers sunk where the concrete is breaking? If not, just break out the cracked area and replace it. if the edge has sunk, taking it all out and re leveling the pavers, then re doing the concrete edge like in this video is the way to go.

[@michaelb-mz4dx]

Thank you for all of your videos. With your help, I have installed a 500 square-foot plus patio with 3/4 crush base, 1/4 crushed bedding and drainage. This is my first project and it’s turning out really well with help from your videos! I’m at the point of edging now and this is a great video, but I am curious, do I need to leave gaps/channels in the concrete at various intervals for drainage or will it just drain underneath and they will not be needed? Also, after doing some research on polymeric sand, I’m thinking about just filling in my joints with the 1/4 crushed bluestone (less money, better drainage). Is that an option? Would that make sense? Seems to in my mind, but then again like I said, this is my first project :-) Thanks again!

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

My pleasure, glad the videos have helped with your project! As far as the concrete, you do not need to leave gaps, the water will drain through the base / over the concrete no problem. And I would not recommend stone in the joints. It may be easier and cheaper but it will allow weeds to grow down the road and the stones will come out here and there and make a bit of a mess on the patio. Especially if you try to blow it off and the stones come out... I recommend the polymeric sand in 95% of situations. Good luck with whatever you decide. ✌

[@michaelb-mz4dx]

Thank you for your response. I will not put channels in the concrete. Also, thank you for the response on the stone joints. That makes sense. I guess I’ve been so impressed with how well it’s draining I didn’t want to take that away by slowing it with polymeric sand.

[@KatieB-km1or]

Hi! We recently paid to have a paver patio installed that was edged with concrete just like this. But I would like to add on to his work myself. How can I add on pavers to expand the patio to look flush with what’s already there? Do I need to break the concrete edge to do that? And if so how?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

So the easiest way is to cut the section you want to remove on the edges with an angle grinder equipped with a diamond blade. once you make the cuts, you can break the concrete pretty easy with a 3lb hammer. Then you are good to go! Good luck ✌

[@josephwydler7699]

I plan on doing your concrete edging method. How do you transition to grass and hide some or all of the concrete? Is that possible?

[@adeelkhan-z9f]

Do you compact the pavers before or after the concrete edging. I have a raised patio with the cantilever edge I laid down my pavers, but I’m not sure if I compact first and then edge or edge first then compact.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Whenever possible, I concrete the edges and install polymeric sand at the same time so you can tamp it while the concrete is wet. That will help prevent the bond from breaking. But if you can't do them at the same time, then concrete the edges and compact on the day you do the polymeric sand, just be careful around the edges and you will be good.

[@adeelkhan-z9f]

Thanks

[@mblankenship15]

Do you remove the extra stone on the outside after you put the concrete in?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Yes we do, As much as possible so we can get a good amount of top soil in there for grass to grow ✌

[@Apstar622]

I did my patio with sand before I saw your videos. I plan to do my walkway with the open grade base

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

I have installed many patios / walkways on sand before I started using this method almost 5 years ago. If done right, it will still last a while. However, the open grade base will hold up far longer in my opinion. That will be a cool test though, you will be able to watch them both age and see the differences between the patio and the walkway... I bet you will notice a difference within a couple years. Good luck on the walkway, I'd love to know how it works for you! ✌

[@korykolsbun9769]

Can you use concrete when your putting artificial turf against the pavers? Since the turf needs stakes

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

I would say absolutely. You just need to make sure the concrete is low enough for the artificial turf to match the height of the pavers. Then you can put the nails a little inside the edge instead of right on the edge. Or even better, if you can lay the turf at the same time you do the concrete, you could put the spike into the wet concrete and that will hold everything nice and tight. ✌

[@youngprince716]

Looks like great work on the patio man. Awesome. Thanks for the video- a few questions with the concrete being there as you show it in the video. Do you not expect it to settle because its on already tampered stone? What about in a freeze thaw type climate ? Hope you enjoy your wknd!

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Thank you, and yes. The base stone is compacted and the clean stone allows for proper drainage which is what helps it hold up just fine in a freeze / thaw cycle. I live in Massachusetts which has multiple freeze/thaw cycles in the winter. This is the best technique that I have found personally... ✌

[@romeo2473]

Concrete is forever... I'm gonna add mine some rebar just to be sure it doesn't crack or loosen up. 😂 Where I live, I don't even think there are plastic restraints. Plastic sounds very appealing at first, low transport costs, light, compact, easy to install... But on the long run, you'll probably realize you've wasted money. Here we use concrete curbs, which are also set on a semi-dry concrete mixture and I have never seen them loosen up because of the concrete. Because of poor foundation? Yes. And thanks a lot, Christian!

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

I agree completely! Rebar does nothing but help for sure, can't go wrong with that. ✌

[@alexandergiguere5484]

What is the brand and type of stones you used here? Where to buy?

[@darihernandezstudio]

I think the concrete edging looked nicely done. I just had my patio done with pavers and think the concrete edging looks sloppy. Can it be salvaged or do I just try to cover it up with soil? From what I can tell the concrete is slopped and I see the polymer sand here and there on top but from a distance the gray concrete is very noticeable and I think it looks ugly. I am pretty bummed about it.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

I am sorry to hear that. Unfortunately even a good method is not good when done improperly. The concrete could always be taken out and re done, but I'm not sure they would do that for free. But you could certainly bring it up with them. It is unfortunate when something like that ruins the rest of the project. But other than that, try to get creative with how you can cover it up. Maybe a mulch / decorative stone bed around the patio, then the mulch of stone will cover it up

[@darihernandezstudio]

@@TheChristianHardscaper Great idea regarding the mulch! I may just do that. I appreciate the suggestion! I will also be bringing it up with the company that did my pavers. Thanks!

[@2099Darius]

Would this technique work well for a driveway?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Yes it would, However I recommend putting rebar in it for a driveway ✌

[@Tcw2019]

How long does it take the concrete edging to harden? What happens if it gets rained on once it’s placed and not fully cured?

[@donthrede6627]

Do you ever do work that you have to add add drains, not French drains but a drain on top like you would add when doing concrete..

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Not very often, but I have multiple times. Not a huge fan of them, I try to design everything around things like that. I would only do it if completely necessary.

[@MrAceman56]

Genuine question. Can you not use aggregate in the edging concrete just to make it smooth? Or will it not be sturdy enough to get that nice slope and just pancake?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

You can use a mortar but yes, it will fail quicker than concrete with aggregate.

[@salihom59]

I too installed my paver patio a couple years ago and all the youtube videos suggested using an inch of sand below the pavers and using the plastic edging/fencing. What would you think about me taking out the plastic, digging the trench and sloping the open grade like you show here and then putting the concrete in like you've shown? I can't redo the whole patio (meaning lifting out all the pavers and replacing the sand, it's about 250 square feet and I've installed a pavillion on top of it) but I thought improving the border would help long term. What do you think?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

I certainly do not blame you, That is what 95% of professionals have recommended for a long time... I started using this method about 5 years ago, I'll never go back to the traditional gravel / sand method. Are your edges starting to fail?

[@salihom59]

@@TheChristianHardscaper Yeah, they've become uneven because of the sand washing out more in some spots than others. The rest of the patio is okay because it doesn't get nearly as much rain because of the pavilion over it. I'm thinking I'll lift up the border, sweep out the sand, replace with 3/8 clean chip to match the level of the rest of the pavers, reset the border and then put in the concrete border like you have shown.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

@@salihom59 Sorry to hear that, the only thing I recommend is to use some kind of geotextile fabric under the chip stone or the sand from under the other pavers may migrate into the new chip stone... Unfortunately, combining the 2 methods require something to prevent migration, it is great to do, just need to take some precautions.

[@Mustafghan]

Two questions: paver over existing concrete okay if the xoncrete is in good condition? If yes, still recommend same xoncrete edging?

[@LooperDIY]

I did concrete edging, how do I get turf down next to it ?

[@patrickniedermeyer2112]

I'm installing a brick paver sidewalk and increasing the elevation of the sidewalk as it approaches my house so it will be ~8" above the original grade. My goal is to only require one step to get into my front porch. I excavated the area ~4" - 6" below grade and compacted the soil, building up the base with 2" - 3" lifts of 3/4" minus crushed rock, compacting each layer as I go. My question is, how do I deal with the side slopes? I was considering continuing to bring up the edges with the compacted crushed rock, maintaining them as a 3:1 slope, then covering them with topsoil, as you've done. Any recommendations?

[@larryseibold4287]

How well/poorly do you think just using Portland cement or mortar is mixed in place with the 3/4" base rock below, as you go along with a tool compared to the pre-mixed concrete? Just a thought.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Straight portland / mortar is not strong enough. Having some kind of aggregate in the mix is very important.

[@TALKATIVE_CARTOON]

box in with length wise rebar so it can not swell out with short rebar that dig in

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

That would certainly help with strength, sometimes I do that in situations that I am worried about more movement than usual. But in most situations, I don't think it is necessary. ✌

[@pattirosser2076]

Can you use a sand/cement mix instead of concrete?🙂

[@albertlachii9560]

Hi Christian, Thanks for a good and informative post. I wanted to ask you what you think about those brooks panels for larger patio pavers like 16" by 24"? Is it worth it?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

No problem, my pleasure! I would not recommend the panels even for pavers that big. Just make sure you take the time to screed perfectly and you will be fine. Those panels cause a lot of problems in my opinion. ✌

[@blackacreage4868]

Is concrete border necessary for synthetic/gator base given that each panel is itself anchored to the subsoil?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

No, concrete is not necessary in that situation. But a plastic or aluminum edging would be because you can spike right to the gator base.

[@DaveC-sx3gl]

Im filling in my patio project with something called A-gravel where i live. It appears to be gravel with sand and it compacts hard. Do you think hpb as a bedding layer would be better than sand and would i be able to use concrete as an edge restraint or would i be better off with a different kind? Thanks

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

I do believe chip stone is a better bedding material and concrete edge restraint is definitely the best ✌

[@donthrede6627]

Well that explains me not able to find any videos in your archives 😢 I think I watched all of them some 2 and 3 times out of all you tube I find myself coming back to your channel, you explains think very well, makes me feel like it's going to be easy, if I sent you a pic good you give me advice? Before you say no just remember my success is your succes since your the only one I watch on you tube my failure is your failure as a teacher.. Baha just kidding but if you could help that would be great..I'll even send you a brand new orange bucket...

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

🤣 That is really nice to hear, I'm so glad you are enjoying the channel! And I would be happy to give you some advice, send the pictures to my email ([e-mail]) And a new orange bucket payment is not necessary...LOL ✌

[@heizhihe3185]

can I use the wood as paver edging?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

I would not recommend it. Concrete will hold better.

[@richardb7093]

Concrete edge even in northern states where the ground freezes?

[@Justforall7]

Great information. What type of concrete you use?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Glad it was helpful, I use regular concrete mix in 80lb bags.

[@TomWeir-v5o]

Put a layer of chicken wire mesh in mortar mix under paving. Will hold everything together.

[@williammunny7133]

I'm back here looking to see how the edging is done with concrete, because I'll be at that point in a week or two.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Nice, the finishing touches huh? Congratulations! And the fiber reinforced mortar is better but also 8 times as expensive.... so on a large application it can become very costly to use that mortar. In my experience, regular concrete is just fine when done correctly. ✌

[@williammunny7133]

@@TheChristianHardscaper Well this isn’t so big that I’d walk away from reinforce fiber, I always use it, but setting pavers is new to me, and that’s exactly what I’ll be using, Thanks.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

@@williammunny7133 Sweet, Good luck! ✌

[@huckwach3074]

Doesn't the backfill material just wash throu/into the base and clog it up?

[@shifttransformations6597]

Love it, the Christian Hardscaper, CHRIST IS KING MY BROTHER.. My company is New Creation named after 2 Corinthians 5:17 Been in landscaping for 25 years but just getting into hardscape, love your videos they have helped me greatly wish you lived closer I would definitely be picking your brain, lol..

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

He most certainly is brother! That is a very cool company name and great motivation for it.👌 I'm glad the videos have been helpful for you and I wish you the best of luck getting into hardscaping! God Bless brother ✌

[@markhoward2758]

No rebar?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Rebar definitely helps and I totally recommend it with driveways but it is not necessary for foot traffic applications. ✌

[@chriss4365]

What if you are redoing a failed barrier? It has just dirt do i need to put granite rocks? If I was you I wouldn't be breathing the dust when mixing concrete wear a mask the dust causes cancer.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

I would recommend digging out a few inches of dirt for sure, than put a couple inches of 3/4 stone before you concrete. It will help it last much longer. ✌

[@vinhgolf]

i just remember something on your video, i noticed , do you used polymeric sand over the paver and water it?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

No, what you are talking about is a different kind of polymeric sand that is supposed to be installed with water, regular polymeric sand needs to be installed dry and wet down after it has been swept in and cleaned up. ✌

[@vinhgolf]

@@TheChristianHardscaper so if you don’t use the polymeric sand , how the paver hold tight together?

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Polymeric sand is the best way to lock everything together, some use regular sand but I don't think that is very good.... It does not lock the pavers in place and it allows weeds to grow.

[@vinhgolf]

@@TheChristianHardscaper ok . As always much appreciated. And if I can , I wanted to donate my time on your next project so I can learn more .

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

@@vinhgolf No problem, I have never really thought of doing that with anyone.... I'm not sure how that would work out. Do you live in Massachusetts?

[@mikedhsr007]

Plastic, aluminum etc edging is not practical where the surrounding landscape It requires a solid base level Plastic or metal restraint requires level solid base. Not practical is landscape slopes below paver bedding. The modified concrete solution adapts best to this situation. I’m dealing with this very problem today. Further if it begins to fail after many years hopefully it can be repaired where it fails. The only other permanent option is a a very expensive retaining wall excavation and install.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Could not have said it better myself. I say it alot that the benefit to concrete over metal or plastic edging is how easy it is to repair if it does fail down the road. You just break out the section that is messed up and mix up some new concrete, all set. The metal and plastic edging is almost impossible to repair small sections because they all hook together. So when you t pull up one section, they all get messed up...

[@Joker75113]

I did not know Ben Affleck installed pavers.

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

🤣✌

[@keving1776]

My reinforced concrete edging failed in less than 2 months. Pretty sure they did not build a 3 inch channel in the rock. I now need to trench around the edging, build a rock base with a channel and redo the concrete edging. I'm extremely pissed off. You just cannot hire people. Always have to go behind the work. 2 shoulder surgeries so I thought I should hire a company. WTF

[@TheChristianHardscaper]

Damn man, I'm sorry to hear that. Digging the trench is very important... I see contractors doing shady work like that everywhere, really sad honestly. Good luck with the repair. ✌

[@keving1776]

Man I wish I could find dudes like you in the Chicago area. Thank you for the great video. It really alerted me to the problem with my edge restraint and what it looks like when it is done right. I have real mess on my hands.