Pavers in North Cambridge, MA

Transform Your Outdoor Space With Professional Pavers

Create the outdoor living space you’ve always wanted with expertly installed pavers that last decades.

Professional Paving Installation Cambridge

Your Property Deserves Better Than Cracked Concrete

You’re tired of looking at that cracked, stained concrete patio every time you step outside. It’s an eyesore that makes your entire backyard feel neglected, and you know it’s not doing your property value any favors.

Professional paver installation changes everything. Instead of concrete that cracks with every freeze-thaw cycle, you get individual pavers that move naturally with the ground. When one does need attention years down the road, you replace just that paver—not the entire surface.

Your new paver patio becomes the centerpiece of your outdoor space. Friends actually want to spend time back there. You stop making excuses about the condition of your yard. And when it comes time to sell, buyers see a well-maintained property that’s been cared for properly.

Cambridge Paving Contractors

We Know Cambridge Properties Inside and Out

Academy Masonry has been installing pavers throughout the Cambridge area for years, and we understand what works in this climate. We know the soil conditions, the drainage challenges, and the permit requirements that come with working in North Cambridge.

You won’t find us cutting corners or using subpar materials. Every paver installation starts with proper excavation and base preparation—the foundation work that determines whether your pavers look great for two years or twenty years.

We’re licensed, insured, and committed to doing the job right the first time. When you call us, you’re working with contractors who live and work in this community.

Paver Installation Process Cambridge

Here's Exactly How We Install Your Pavers

First, we excavate to the proper depth—typically 8-10 inches depending on your soil conditions and intended use. This isn’t negotiable. Shallow excavation is why you see failed paver jobs with sunken, uneven surfaces.

Next comes the base layer: compacted gravel that creates the stable foundation your pavers need. We use a mechanical compactor to ensure proper density. Then we add a leveling layer of sand, screed it perfectly flat, and begin laying your pavers in the pattern you’ve chosen.

Every paver gets set individually and checked for level. Once they’re all in place, we sweep polymeric sand into the joints, which hardens to lock everything together. Finally, we compact the entire surface and clean up completely. The whole process typically takes 2-4 days depending on the size of your project.

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Patio Pavers Cambridge MA

What's Included in Every Paver Installation

Every paver installation includes complete excavation, proper base preparation, and professional-grade materials. We handle all the details: from calculating the right amount of base material for your soil conditions to ensuring proper slope for drainage.

You get your choice of paver styles, colors, and patterns. Whether you want classic brick pavers for a traditional Cambridge look or modern concrete pavers with clean lines, we’ll help you select materials that complement your home’s architecture.

We also handle the practical considerations many homeowners don’t think about. Proper edge restraints to prevent spreading. Adequate drainage to prevent water issues. And clean, precise cuts around existing features like steps, trees, or garden beds. When we’re finished, your new paver surface looks like it was always meant to be there.

How long do pavers last compared to concrete in Cambridge weather?

Properly installed pavers typically last 25-30 years or more in New England weather, significantly longer than poured concrete. The key difference is how they handle freeze-thaw cycles. Concrete cracks when water freezes and expands in small fissures. Pavers move independently, so ground movement doesn’t create the same cracking problems. Individual pavers can be replaced if damaged, while concrete requires full section replacement. The initial investment in pavers pays off through decades of reliable performance with minimal maintenance.

Do I need permits for paver installation in North Cambridge?

Most residential paver patios and walkways don’t require permits in Cambridge, but larger installations or those affecting drainage patterns might. We handle permit research and applications when needed. The key factors are project size, proximity to property lines, and whether we’re changing existing drainage patterns. We’ll let you know upfront if permits are required for your specific project. Our familiarity with local building codes means no surprises or delays due to compliance issues.

What's the difference between brick pavers and concrete pavers?

Brick pavers are made from fired clay and offer a classic, traditional look that complements Cambridge’s historic architecture. They develop a natural patina over time and are extremely durable. Concrete pavers are manufactured from cement and aggregates, offering more color and style options with consistent appearance. Both are excellent choices—brick pavers suit traditional homes while concrete pavers work well for contemporary designs. We’ll help you choose based on your home’s style, your aesthetic preferences, and your budget.

How do you ensure proper drainage with paver installation?

Proper drainage starts with correct slope during installation—typically 1/4 inch per foot away from structures. We evaluate your existing drainage patterns and adjust our installation accordingly. The paver base itself provides excellent drainage, and small gaps between pavers allow water to filter through rather than pooling on the surface. For areas with drainage challenges, we can incorporate drainage systems or adjust the design to direct water appropriately. Poor drainage destroys paver installations, so we take this seriously from day one.

Can pavers be installed over existing concrete?

Sometimes, but it depends on the condition of your existing concrete. If the concrete is level, structurally sound, and has proper drainage, pavers can be installed over it with the right preparation. However, if the concrete is cracked, settling, or has drainage issues, we recommend full removal and proper base installation. Installing over problematic concrete just transfers those problems to your new pavers. We’ll assess your existing surface and recommend the approach that gives you the best long-term results.

What maintenance do pavers require after installation?

Paver maintenance is minimal but important for longevity. Annual cleaning with a pressure washer or stiff brush removes dirt and prevents staining. Every 2-3 years, you may need to add polymeric sand to joints if it’s washed out. Sealing is optional but recommended every 3-5 years to enhance color and protect against stains. Individual pavers can be lifted and releveled if settling occurs, though this is rare with proper installation. Overall, pavers require far less maintenance than concrete surfaces, which often need crack repairs and resurfacing.

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