Brick, Stone & Paver Patio's in Wausau, WI and Surrounding Area

Creating a well-built patio involves several crucial structural design decisions that ensure a stable, attractive, and long-lasting outdoor space.

Compaction-Resistant Base Layer

The foundation of any patio is its base layer, which is essential for maintaining its integrity. Compaction can make or break your patio. While a patio may appear perfectly laid on day zero, if the base is vulnerable to significant compaction, it may deteriorate within a year.

Industry guidelines suggest a 4-6 inch base for most paver applications. However, we exceed these standards by using a minimum of 8 inches of open-graded aggregate under all our patio installations. Depending on specific site conditions, we may even increase the base material thickness. Open-graded aggregate compacts more efficiently than traditional crushed gravel and does not retain water, which is particularly advantageous in regions like Wisconsin, where freeze/thaw cycles can cause significant damage. This method has proven successful in our Wausau area patio projects.

Inter-Layer Reinforcement

To further enhance the stability of your patio, we install a geotextile barrier between the compacted subgrade (soil) and the new base aggregate. This barrier distributes the load of the patio pavers evenly and prevents the base aggregate from mixing with the underlying soils, which can lead to instability over time.

Additional Reinforcement

While additional reinforcement is typically unnecessary for standard patios, it can be beneficial in specific scenarios. For example, in a backyard patio designed to support a heavy load like a hot tub, we use geogrid reinforcement to provide extra "insurance" against settling. This precautionary step ensures that the patio remains level and stable despite the increased weight.

Edging

To prevent the pavers from shifting and spreading over time, we install a paver edge restraint around the perimeter of the patio. This edging is crucial for maintaining the patio's shape and ensuring its longevity.

Joint Sand

To ensure the stability and longevity of your patio, we use high-quality polymeric joint sand. This sand is carefully swept into the joints between pavers and then compacted multiple times to ensure it settles deeply. After the sand is thoroughly swept and the surface is cleaned, we wet and activate it. Over the next 24 hours, the sand hardens and cures, much like grout, locking your pavers firmly in place for years to come. An added benefit of using polymeric joint sand is its ability to prevent weeds from growing between the pavers, maintaining a clean and polished look for your patio.

Sealer

Applying a sealer is an optional step that depends on your preferences and the intended use of the patio. There is a variety of paver sealers available, each offering different benefits. Some sealers enhance the colors of the pavers, giving them a vibrant and refreshed appearance. Others can provide a 'wet' look, adding a glossy finish that makes the colors pop. There are also sealers that are nearly invisible but still offer substantial protection against the elements. Using a sealer can help protect your patio from stains, weathering, and general wear and tear, ensuring it looks great and lasts longer.

By paying attention to these structural elements, we create patios that not only look beautiful but also stand the test of time, providing a reliable and attractive outdoor space for years to come.

Contact Us Today

At Promethean Artisans, we specialize in crafting exquisite, functional, and eco-friendly outdoor spaces with our expertly designed brick, stone, and paver patios. Our patio solutions not only enhance your property's aesthetic appeal but also promote sustainability by allowing water to naturally infiltrate the ground. This process reduces runoff and supports groundwater recharge.

With our extensive experience and dedication to quality craftsmanship, we ensure that every brick, stone, and paver patio we build is tailored to meet your specific needs and preferences, while also contributing to a healthier environment. Contact us today to learn more about our patio options and start transforming your outdoor space into a stunning, sustainable oasis with Promethean Artisans. Your perfect patio is just a call away.