Paver driveways and walkways
A paver driveway or front walk changes how a house looks from the street, but it needs a base built for the weight it carries.
Driveways take far more load than patios. A pickup or a loaded trailer pressing on the same strip every day will find any weakness in the base, which is why a paver driveway is built with a deeper, well-compacted gravel base and a stronger edge than a backyard patio. Done right, pavers handle Tri-Cities freeze-thaw cycles without the long cracks you see in many concrete driveways.
What kinds of projects are common?
- Full paver driveways replacing cracked or heaved concrete
- Driveway widening with a paver strip for an extra car, boat or RV pad
- Borders and aprons that dress up an existing concrete driveway
- Front walkways from the driveway to the porch
- Side-yard paths to gates, sheds and garden areas
What about the approach and sidewalk?
The part of a driveway between the sidewalk and the street, and the sidewalk itself, usually sit in the public right-of-way. In Kennewick, work in the right-of-way needs a separate city permit, only bonded contractors may do it, and sidewalks and driveway entrances must be inspected after forming and before concrete is placed. The city may require that section to meet its own standards, so ask before assuming pavers can run to the curb. Pasco, Richland and West Richland have their own rules, and your contractor should check them for your address.
What makes a driveway last?
- A deeper compacted base sized for vehicle traffic
- Pavers rated for driveways, often thicker or laid in a herringbone pattern that resists shifting
- A solid edge restraint so tires don't push pavers outward
- Drainage that sends water to the street or yard, not toward the garage
Walkways
A walk needs less base than a driveway but still has to stay level so no one trips. Gentle curves, a border course and steps where the yard rises are common choices, and low path lights can be run during installation.
The contractor prices the job after seeing the site, measuring the area and talking through the pattern and materials you want. We don't quote prices, and a number given over the phone is only a rough starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Do I need a permit for a paver driveway in Kennewick?
Work on your own lot may not, but the approach and sidewalk in the public right-of-way need a city permit and a bonded contractor. Check with the City of Kennewick for your address.
Will a paver driveway hold an RV or trailer?
It can when the base is designed for that load. Tell the contractor what you plan to park so they can size the base.
Related services
More background: Tri-Cities paver patio guide.
Ready for a patio you'll actually use?
Call now and a local paver contractor will look at your yard and quote the work.