Pavers · Driveways
Paver Driveway Installation in Brentwood, CA
A paver driveway is interlocking units over a compacted base. Here is what separates a good install from a bad one, and what to ask before you compare quotes.
How this site works: Brentwood Concrete & Pavers is an independent referral site. We don't pour concrete or install pavers. When you send a request, we pass it to an independent local contractor who measures, quotes and contracts with you directly. Use the checklists here with any contractor, including one we refer.
What a paver driveway is
A paver driveway uses interlocking concrete or clay units set on bedding sand over a compacted aggregate base, held in by edge restraints, with sand swept into the joints. The units spread vehicle loads across the base, so the base does most of the structural work.
Base depth is the quality question
HomeGuide lists 4 to 6 inches of base for pedestrian areas and 6 to 12 inches for driveways. Ask each contractor what base depth and material they plan, how it will be compacted, and how the edges will be held. Those answers tell you more than the paver brand does.
Paver types
Concrete pavers are the most common, with clay brick, natural stone and porcelain as other materials. HomeGuide lists installed driveway pavers at about $10 to $30 per square foot (HomeGuide). Thickness matters for vehicle loads, so ask for the paver thickness and brand in the quote.
Permeable pavers
Permeable pavers have wider joints filled with stone to let water pass through. HomeGuide lists permeable paver material at about $4 to $12 per square foot (HomeGuide). We make no claims about local stormwater rules or rebates. Ask your contractor and your city whether anything applies to your property.
Upkeep: joints, weeds and sealing
Pavers are low maintenance but not no maintenance. HomeGuide notes periodic weeding of seams (HomeGuide), and sand in the joints may need topping up. Sealing is optional and adds cost. HomeGuide lists sealing at about $1.50 to $3.25 per square foot (HomeGuide).
Repairs
Individual pavers can be lifted and re-laid, which HomeGuide describes as cheaper and easier than repairing or replacing a concrete surface (HomeGuide). A settled area usually means the base needs attention, not just the pavers.
What changes the price
Excavation and base depth, paver type, pattern complexity, borders, edging, access and drainage all move the total. HomeGuide lists excavation or removal at about $1 to $5 per square foot (HomeGuide). See the paver cost guide for worked examples.
Compare before you decide
Weighing pavers against a poured driveway? Read the concrete vs pavers guide and the concrete driveways page. Hiring? Use the paver contractor checklist.
Sources
- HomeGuide — Paver Patio Cost (Sep 18, 2024)
- HomeGuide — Pavers Cost Per Square Foot (Apr 24, 2023)
- HomeGuide — Cost of Pavers vs. Concrete (May 30, 2025)
Common questions
How much does a paver driveway cost?
HomeGuide lists installed pavers at about $10 to $30 per square foot. The contractor sets the final price after measuring. See the paver cost guide for sources and worked examples.
How deep should the base be for a paver driveway?
HomeGuide lists 6 to 12 inches of base for driveways, against 4 to 6 inches for pedestrian areas. Ask every contractor to state base depth and material in writing.
Are pavers cheaper than concrete?
Usually not up front. HomeGuide lists pavers at $10 to $30 per square foot and concrete at $6 to $15. Pavers can be repaired one unit at a time, which may matter over the years.
Do pavers settle or sink?
They can if the base was not deep enough or well compacted, or if drainage fails. That is why base depth and compaction are the main quality questions.
Get a concrete or paver quote
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