Why Every Jacksonville Paver Patio Needs Paver Edgers

Lisa Hanger

3/15/25

Every homeowner in Jacksonville wants their property to stand out. However, without the right support, even the best paver patios can suffer from shifting and erosion.

That's where paver edgers come into play.

Paver edgers are the finishing touch that ensures clean lines and a polished appearance. It is the key to a stable, long-lasting patio that adds value to your home.

Keep reading as Coastal Patio Pavers outlines its home improvement benefits and how they can help you create an attractive outdoor space.

What Are Paver Edgers?

Paver edgers, sometimes referred to as edging restraints or border pavers, are essential components in the construction and maintenance of paver patios. These elements act as a boundary and provide structural support to keep the pavers in place.

Without edgers, the pavers can shift over time due to foot traffic, weather conditions, and natural ground movements. This can lead to an uneven and unattractive patio surface.

There are several types of paver edging to use in your hardscape project. Each with its own set of advantages:

Plastic Edgers: Plastic edge restraints are highly flexible and can easily be shaped to fit curved or irregular patio designs. They are resistant to weather and won’t rust, making them a long-lasting option.
Metal Edgers: Metal edgers, typically made from aluminum or steel, offer superior strength and can withstand heavy use and pressure. They are highly durable and can last for many years without needing replacement.
Concrete Edgers: Concrete paver edging provides exceptional stability and are ideal for heavy-duty applications. This material is robust and can handle significant environmental stressors, including freeze-thaw cycles.

Paver edgers are installed along the perimeter of the paver patio during the construction process. Its purpose is primarily to maintain the shape and alignment of the pavers. They are positioned and secured in place before the brick pavers, natural stone pavers or concrete pavers are laid.

4 Perks of Using Edging for Pavers on Outdoor Living Spaces

Enhancing Durability

Paver edge restraints play a crucial role in enhancing the durability of your paver patio.

By providing a solid boundary, they prevent the pavers from shifting and spreading over time. This structural support ensures that your patio remains level and stable, even with heavy foot traffic and changing weather conditions.

Without edgers, pavers can lead to the following:

move out of place
visible gaps
uneven surfaces
potential tripping hazards.

Improving Aesthetics

The perfect paving edge restraint can help maintain straight lines and clear boundaries. It can significantly enhance the overall appearance of your outdoor space.

Whether you choose plastic, metal, or concrete edgers, they can complement the design of your patio, adding a touch of sophistication and style. The defined edges also make landscaping around the patio easier and more visually appealing.

Erosion Prevention

Heavy rains can be common in the Jacksonville area. This can cause soil erosion around your patio which can be a significant concern.

In such cases, proper paver edge restraints act as a barrier that helps keep the sand and soil in place. As a result, preventing erosion and the associated damage.

By maintaining the foundation, edgers protect against the wear that erosion can cause and ensure your patio remains intact.

Ease of Maintenance

Since edgers keep the pavers in place, it also reduces the need for frequent realignment or repairs. They also make cleaning the patio more straightforward, as the well-defined edges prevent debris and dirt from spreading onto the surrounding areas.

With paver edging restraints, you can enjoy a low-maintenance patio that stays in top condition with minimal effort. Here’s how you can maintain a long-lasting paver edge restraint systems:

Inspect your entire paver edgers regularly to spot any signs of movement or damage. Look for gaps or loose pieces and address them promptly to prevent further issues.

Keep your high-quality paver edgers clean by sweeping away dirt, leaves, and debris. For a deeper clean, use a garden hose or a low-setting pressure washer to remove stubborn grime.

If you notice any loose or displaced edgers, secure them back into place using stakes or spikes. This simple fix can maintain the stability and appearance of your patio.

For concrete edgers, check for any cracks or breaks and reapply mortar or adhesive as needed. Prompt repairs will prevent further damage and keep your edgers looking new.

Prevent weeds from growing around your paver edgers by applying a weed barrier or regularly pulling any sprouts. This will help maintain a clean and tidy patio edge.

How to Install Paver Edgers?

Always remember that installing paver edgers requires thorough planning and preparation. For instance, you need to outline the shape and dimensions of your patio and measure the area accurately. You will need to clear the area of any debris, rocks, or vegetation to ensure a smooth and level surface for installation. Once this is complete, that is the only time you can begin the actual installation.

This involves the following:

Lay the Foundation: Excavate a trench around the perimeter of the patio area, deep enough to accommodate the edgers. The trench should be slightly wider than the edgers themselves.
Place the Edgers: Position the edgers in the trench, ensuring they are level and aligned correctly. For plastic or metal edgers, use stakes or spikes to secure them firmly into the ground. Concrete edgers can be set directly into the trench.
Secure the Edgers: For additional stability, backfill the trench with soil or gravel, packing it tightly around the edgers. This will help keep them in place and provide extra support for the patio.
Lay the Pavers: Once the edgers are secured, proceed with laying the pavers within the defined boundary. The edgers will keep the pavers in place and maintain the shape of the patio.

While installing paver edgers can be a rewarding DIY project, hiring professionals can ensure a flawless and long-lasting result.

Professional paver installers have the experience and tools necessary to handle complex designs and challenging terrains. They can also provide valuable advice on the best materials and techniques to use for your paver patio project.

Conclusion

Paver edgers are a small addition that makes a big difference in your patio’s performance and longevity. A well-maintained and visually appealing patio can boost your property’s curb appeal and overall worth.

So, if you’re planning to build or upgrade your paver patio, don’t overlook the importance of proper paver edging. Contact Coastal Patio Pavers to add that extra value to your home with expertly installed paver edgers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you install edging before or after pavers?

Paver edging should be installed before laying the pavers. This ensures a stable boundary that keeps the pavers in place during and after installation, preventing shifting and maintaining the patio's shape. By setting the edgers first, you create a solid framework that enhances the durability and appearance of your patio.

Should I put a gap between pavers?

Yes, you should put a gap between pavers to allow for joint sand to fill in and lock the pavers in place. The gaps also accommodate expansion and contraction due to temperature changes. Typically, a gap of 1/8 to 1/4 inch is recommended for most paver installations.

How many edging pavers do I need?

To determine how many restraint for pavers you need, first measure the perimeter of your patio area in feet. Then, divide this measurement by the length of one edging paver, typically available in feet or inches, to get the total number of pavers required. For an accurate measurement and professional advice on your paver patio installation, reach out to us at Coastal Patio Pavers.

How thick should a paver base be?

A permeable paver base should typically be about 4 to 6 inches thick to provide adequate support and stability. This depth ensures a solid foundation that can handle heavy loads and prevent paver movement. For areas with heavier traffic or clay soil, a thicker base of up to 8 inches may be recommended.

What is the angle of the paver edge?

Most paver restraints have a slight angle, usually around 45 degrees, to help with drainage and prevent tripping hazards. This design ensures both functionality and safety while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the patio.