Are you ready to lay pavers as your driveway, patio, or other project? If so, congratulations; you are about to join a club of people who understand the value of pavers in lieu of other forms of driveways and patios that have an incredible endurance record, are easily repaired should something happen, cost less than other materials and installation, and add more beauty and value to your home than any other form of construction.

The real question is… are you really ready? Let’s take a look at where you are in the process. Here are five questions design to rate your readiness for professionally installed pavers as a driveway, garden path, or patio project.

1. Have you done your research?

Research is an important part of any pavers project regardless of whether you are using it as a DIY project or having them professionally installed. Even if you completely trust your landscaper, the boss cannot be on the job 100% of the time. Laying pavers professionally is a team effort. If you are doing it yourself, you have planned tfor the project to take several weeks.

Professionals will install your pavers in a matter of days and if you do not know anything about how it is done and what to expect, glaring mistakes could be made and you would not know the difference. For instance, packing the ground with a plate packing appliance on the professional grade packer is essential during several stages of the installation process. The application of filler sand must be done correctly or your patio or driveway will not filter and drain the way it is supposed to drain.

2. Have you had your property appraised in the last six months?

An addition to your home will increase your home and property’s value. It is wise to have your home appraised before and after the installation to ensure the proper appreciation is documented should you decide to put your home up on the market in the near future. You never really know when life will throw you a curve that forces extreme measures so it is always wise to be prepared.

3. Did you check the Landscapers’ references and background?

Even if you know your landscaper, it is prudent to check and not just take the word at face value. Look for paver projects the contractor has done recently and any done a year or more in the past. Do not be afraid to drive out and take a look for yourself. Most homeowners are happy to speak with you about their experience, especially if they know that you are about to undertake the same type of project. You may be surprised to find that you backed the wrong horse but better to find this out before the job has begun.

4. Has your landscaper suggested laying pavers over existing patio concrete?

While this is possible… is it practical? There are tremendous variables involved in lay pavers over old concrete. The best way is always going to be from scratch. For one thing, while the top of your old patio may look structurally intact, who is to say that there are not expanding cracks on the underside that are not quite showing through?

There must also be enough space in doorways to allow for boarder pavers. The most important part of the paver project is the outer layer of pavers as they keep the entire platform from spreading and shifting. There are numerous methods of securing the outer boarder, most of which involve the need for extra space. Door jambs need clearance for this, plus at least ¾ of an inch in cold winter weather climates for what is known as “Frost Heave.” (The expansion of material in both the door and the pavers when weather changes)

If you have a landscaper that is resistant to the idea of removing the existing concrete patio slab and starting from scratch, it may be time to look a little deeper into their backgrounds.

5. If you are replacing your driveway or patio due to damage done in a storm or accident, will your homeowners insurance cover the costs?

If you have a comprehensive insurance plan for your home, your patio may be considered an outdoor living space. This is especially true if the addition of such a space increases the value of your home. This means that it is part of the dewelling and may be included in the policy. It is always wise to call yur agent before submitting a claim.

Having a fire pit or built in grill increases the fulfillment of the definition of living space. If it can be used to prepare food or entertain, it could be considered as part of the house or as a living space. The addition of a canopy is also a great start should you wish to add it to your insurance in the future. It depends upon who you carry insurance with. Give your agent a call to find out the details.

These five questions will help you ensure that you are ready to proceed with your pavers project plans. There are other questions that you could ask yourself as well concerning affordability and steps that you might take to increase the affordability factor, such as the removal of an existing slab yourself, which can be done with less expense. If you are ready, go for broke and get ready to enjoy and reap the benefits of your new pavers patio pr driveway for many years to come.