Best Base For Pavers To End All Your Worries

A few weeks back, I noticed pools of water getting formed on my driveway due to the ongoing monsoon. 

Soon enough, the dogs were running around outside and leaving muddy tracks all over the house. I tried keeping them indoors, but their restlessness knew no bounds, and I was challenged to come up with some other solution.

That's when I stumbled across pavers, and after a lot of research, I picked a sunny afternoon to have my driveway renovated. And I'm happy to report that I haven't experienced any slushy or muddy conditions outside my house since then, which is highly convenient. But I realized I might not be the only one who has problems with a deteriorating pathway.

Hi! I'm Stacy Smith, and today I'll be discussing all about the best paver bases. And to help you select the best ones, I've narrowed down my top products when it comes to the best base for pavers.

Top 5 Product Reviews

One of my top suggestions is the TRUEGRID Paver, which was first recommended to me by my son. It offers the best features at an affordable price, and I had no trouble fixing my driveway using it. No surprises then that users have been quite effusive in their praise, and you can use it in different conditions because of its exceptional versatility.

Why Buy This Product? 

The first thing you must consider before buying any tool is the ease of use, and it's an area where this product has done well. Irrespective of whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned professional, you'll find its lightweight nature makes it incredibly convenient to manage.

Furthermore, it's made from 100% recycled HDPE, meaning that it's environment-friendly and allows you to use it for various tasks. A lot of attention has also gone into making it durable and weather-resistant. Therefore, it's compatible with different soil types and can handle various conditions with aplomb.

If you're wondering how best to use it, I suggest that you apply it on the driveway, parking lot, or running trail. It’s high on versatility, ensuring you can use it for most public spaces such as the community garden, your patio, or pool skirts.

Meanwhile, I particularly liked its low maintenance, which reduces your workload and ensures you don't have to spend your weekend cleaning. You'll no longer need to worry about mud puddles or potholes, and given the quick installation, you'll find it meets most of your demands.

What Could've Been Better? 

Frankly, the issues that arise while working with it aren’t that big of a deal, and that's why I've used it myself. But you should know that you'll require an angle grinder or a segmented blade to cut it to size effectively during installation. Besides, it's best not to use fine-toothed blades since these might get caught up in the plastic.

The Techniseal Paver has stuck to the basics while making the necessary improvements to cement a place for itself. The most noticeable attribute is its durability, but that's not the only positive thing about it. So, read on to find out more.

Why Buy This Product? 

Straight off the bat, the high-density foam panels produce the same results you’d get with 8-inches of excavation. It reduces stress and makes it easy for you to get the best results. 

Also, to support its ability to handle various tasks, Techniseal has ensured it has the required sturdiness. In that regard, it provides the foundation for you to lay down numerous materials like concrete pavers, porcelain tiles, and natural stone. Moreover, it's designed to last a long time, and you don't have to worry about it deteriorating after a few years.

However, the significant upgrade comes in terms of user-friendliness, thanks to the presence of the EZ base panels. It makes the installation procedure highly convenient and ensures you can cut the material down to size without any hassle. All you need to do is dig out a 3-inch excavated area, cover it with a sand base, and gently place the panels.

After that, you'll have no issues in laying down tiles or slabs on top of the panels due to the foam covering. Finally, it allows you to complete work quickly, making it extremely efficient.

What Could've Been Better? 

The thing that has bugged users the most is the price, and that is one aspect where it fails to impress. The cost of using it is slightly higher compared to other products, which could make prospective buyers think twice. I believe that you can't compromise with quality and it's better to pay a little extra considering you're flexible with the budget.

The Alliance Gator Sand may seem like a simple product, but don't be fooled. It packs a punch and delivers reliable performance to keep your driveway area clean and provide a long lifespan. I wasn't surprised by the positive reviews from users and even suggested it to my neighbor. I assure you it's one of the best sand for paver joints.  

Why Buy This Product? 

I'll begin by discussing the essential aspect of the product, which is accessing the tight areas. It allows you to use it on joints, reaching a depth of 4-inches, thanks to the ASTM C144 gradation. Consequently, you get maximum coverage and won't have to worry about holes or gaps in your driveway.

Its versatility is on full display, thanks to the OSHA crystalline silica components, which come in handy for drainage and commercial purposes. What’s more, it's robust, can endure various weather conditions, and is particularly resistant to water. It can also handle temperatures well above 32-degree Fahrenheit, making it ideal for a wet or dry climate.

You'll love the fact that it keeps the area clean, checks the growth of weeds, and prevents insects from burrowing under it. As a result, you can apply it to joint pavers, ensuring that your pathway is protected against wind, erosion, and freeze-thaw cycles.

At this point, I must mention that storing the stuff isn't difficult since it comes in a waterproof bag. Plus, due to the advanced haze-free technology, the components in the bag will last a long time, allowing you to keep it outdoors.

What Could've Been Better? 

It would be best if you kept in mind that it takes a bit of time to dry, so you must avoid treading on it. Keep your kids and pets away from the work area because the last thing you need is for footprints to appear on the sand. Once it dries, you've got nothing else to worry about.

The ArmorLay Fabric has most bases covered, and as my son used it himself, I can vouch for it. It comes with multiple features, making it stand out and top rival brands. Meanwhile, the designers have provided an affordable option that ranks among the best sand for pavers, which is sure to please you.

Why Buy This Product? 

If you're looking for a product to use on construction sites, they don't come much better than this. It works wonders in areas where the soil tends to separate, thereby leading to several complications. Still, you can effectively use it to counter the situation. Thanks to its numerous features, you can combine it with rocky surfaces to get terrific output.

Right away, you'll notice that it comprises an absorbent textile, which helps to provide more stability. It helps to hold the substance under your driveway together to ensure you don't encounter any untoward incidents. As a result, it prevents erosion and works well with patios and animal stables.

Its durable nature means you can use it for many years to come. It can endure heavy-duty activity, and is ideal for preventing ruts and potholes from showing up. In that regard, it proves to be an affordable option since you won't have to make frequent reinforcements.

Likewise, I was pleased with the easy installation, making it ideal for all users. Finally, the Weed Armor 6-inch Landscape pins strengthen most material for the best results.

What Could've Been Better? 

A common complaint among users is that it doesn't drain well and tends to leave puddles. ArmorLay failed to make it free-draining, which is an inconvenience and may deter potential buyers. Besides, it would be beneficial to be careful while making the cuts since it tends to shred in large quantities. So, take your time and use a sharp blade.

The Zigzag Paver is making all the right noises in the market and with good reason. Users have taken a liking to the multi-faceted nature of the model, ensuring you get maximum efficiency in different conditions. It features an innovative design that has generated substantial buzz, and despite having a higher price, I can safely say you'll get your money's worth.

Why Buy This Product? 

For starters, it's the perfect tool if you need to reinforce the ground, which is why it comes with a unique interlocking mechanism. Therefore, you've got the option of using it for car parks, driveways, or patios. Also, the durable nature comes in handy since it allows you to get rid of muddy areas.

Thanks to the natural drainage ability, it can handle a heavy downpour to keep the outdoors clean and safe. You'll be pleased to note that it can manage the weight of a 44-tonne vehicle, ensuring you don't encounter any problems in wet conditions. Moreover, the suitable dimension makes installation easy, while the pack of eight pieces allows you to cover most surfaces.

Furthermore, Zigzag has produced an eco-friendly model which has the necessary sturdiness, and has led to its increased demand. However, the significant improvement comes in terms of water management, and it's well suited to handle the excess water during a storm. No surprises then that it's an integral part of the sustainable urban drainage system initiative.

You won't require any tools or staking for installation, and it demands considerably low maintenance, which speaks volumes about its versatility. Finally, it delivers exceptional results even on rutted grass.

What Could've Been Better? 

Like some of the other units, it's slightly expensive; however, given the range of features it comes with, the price is understandable. I realize that the cost is a niggling factor, but if you can loosen the purse strings a little, I assure that you won't be disappointed. But in case you’re working on a tight budget, it's better to opt for some other option.

Final Words

I've reached the end of my guide, and hopefully, you've got a better understanding of pavers.

Before signing off, I've decided to list the top model in different categories to help you make an informed decision. For the best overall performance, you can opt for the TRUEGRID Paver, while the Techniseal Paver is a high-end option that has quality characteristics.

Apart from that, the Alliance Gator Sand includes the latest improvements to provide reliable performance. So, that's all for now; do remember to carry out a quick survey of the area you want fixed to pick the right unit.

Take care and bye.