Build curb appeal with pavers—without future settling, weeds, or drainage headaches
Pavers are one of the best upgrades for Hill Country properties because they look high-end, handle heat well, and can be repaired piece-by-piece if needed. But in Boerne and the greater San Antonio area, the difference between a patio that stays tight for years and one that starts to ripple often comes down to the base, drainage plan, and edge restraint—not the paver brand. This guide walks through what professional pavers installation should include, what to ask your contractor, and how to plan a patio or walkway that fits local water-wise landscaping goals.
Why pavers perform so well in the Texas Hill Country (when installed correctly)
Central Texas properties often deal with intense sun, short bursts of heavy rain, and soils that can expand or move. Interlocking concrete pavers (and some natural stone systems) are designed to “flex” slightly as a surface—so the key is creating a stable, well-draining foundation that distributes weight evenly.
Local planning note: Water conservation rules and irrigation limitations can impact how you design your outdoor space. Hardscaping can reduce high-water turf areas, while still leaving room for native plant beds and drip irrigation where it makes sense. (ci.boerne.tx.us)
The 6 installation steps that separate “pretty” from “permanent”
1) Layout + slope for drainage
A patio should be laid out with a planned slope so water sheds away from your home and doesn’t pond in low spots. Drainage planning also considers where roof runoff lands and whether a channel drain or gravel strip is needed.
2) Excavation to the right depth (this is where most shortcuts happen)
Excavation depth is determined by the paver thickness + bedding sand + compacted base. For pedestrian patios and walkways, industry guidance commonly starts with a minimum 4-inch compacted base over well-drained soils, with more depth recommended when conditions are weaker or wetter. (masonryandhardscapes.org)
3) Geotextile (when needed) + base material
On sites with softer subgrade, mixed fill, or drainage concerns, a geotextile fabric can help separate soil from base and reduce long-term settling. Then a dense-graded aggregate base is installed in lifts and compacted.
4) Bedding sand thickness control
Bedding sand isn’t “extra base.” It’s a thin leveling layer. Guidance commonly places bedding sand in the range of about 3/4 inch to 1-1/2 inches depending on system and spec—thicker sand layers can increase the chance of movement. (westernhardscape.org)
5) Edge restraint (non-negotiable)
Edge restraints lock the field of pavers in place and prevent the “creep” that opens joints over time. A clean edge also helps mowing and trimming stay neat. (westernhardscape.org)
6) Joint sand + compaction + final cleanup
After laying pavers, the surface is compacted (with proper protection) and joint sand is swept and set. Many homeowners prefer polymeric joint sand to reduce weed growth and washout—especially where runoff can be strong.
Quick comparison: base thickness guidelines (starting points)
| Application | Common minimum compacted base thickness* | When to go thicker |
|---|---|---|
| Patios & walkways (pedestrian) | 4 in. over well-drained soils (masonryandhardscapes.org) | Weak/expansive soils, poor drainage, downspout discharge zones (masonryandhardscapes.org) |
| Residential driveways | 6 in. over well-drained soils (masonryandhardscapes.org) | Poor drainage, heavier vehicles, edge loading, subgrade issues (masonryandhardscapes.org) |
*These are starting points based on industry resources. A qualified contractor may adjust depth based on site conditions, drainage, and use.
Did you know?
Boerne has year-round conservation measures that prohibit landscape watering during mid-day hours—another reason many homeowners mix hardscape with native beds and efficient irrigation. (ci.boerne.tx.us)
The City of Boerne runs a backflow prevention program (required by TCEQ) to protect the potable water system—important if your project includes irrigation upgrades. (ci.boerne.tx.us)
Planning tips for a low-maintenance patio (that still feels lush)
- Pair pavers with Texas natives: Use drought-tolerant beds along edges to soften hard lines and reduce turf. (Explore Texas native plants)
- Plan your materials early: Gravel and mulch quantities are easy to underestimate—use calculators to avoid multiple trips. (Gravel calculator | Mulch calculator)
- Consider lighting before you build: Run conduit and place wire paths while the base is open to avoid cutting later. (Outdoor lighting installation)
- Don’t ignore irrigation and backflow: If you’re adding or modifying irrigation zones, make sure everything is compliant and tested. (Irrigation services | Backflow prevention)
A simple step-by-step checklist before your pavers installation starts
Step 1: Confirm the purpose and load
Patio seating? Grill area? Spa pad? Driveway? The “use case” influences base depth and paver thickness.
Step 2: Identify drainage routes
Locate downspouts, low spots, and where water should exit the area without eroding beds.
Step 3: Choose paver pattern and border detail
Borders help lock patterns in and elevate the finished look (especially for walkways and courtyards).
Step 4: Decide how you’ll manage joints
Polymeric sand can reduce washout and weeds, while traditional sand can be easier to refresh over time.
Step 5: Make room for the “extras” that matter
Lighting, irrigation sleeves, drainage, and edging details are easiest (and cleanest) when planned before installation.
Want a coordinated plan before any digging starts? Pair your hardscape project with professional landscape design services so the patio, planting, lighting, and irrigation work as one system.
Local angle: what Boerne homeowners should prioritize
Water-wise design
Hardscaping can reduce the footprint of high-water turf and make irrigation schedules easier to manage within local rules, while still keeping the yard attractive with native beds and shaded seating zones. (ci.boerne.tx.us)
Backflow & irrigation coordination
If you’re touching irrigation lines during a patio build, coordinate backflow prevention and testing requirements. Boerne’s program is aligned with TCEQ requirements to protect potable water. (ci.boerne.tx.us)
Sun and heat comfort
Consider integrating pergola footings, shade trees (properly placed), or outdoor lighting early so the space is usable at night and during hotter months.
Serving Boerne and nearby communities? We also provide full-service landscaping support across the region, including Stone Oak, The Dominion, and San Antonio.
Ready to plan a patio or walkway that fits your property—and your maintenance goals?
Blades of Glory Landscaping provides design-forward hardscaping and full-service landscape support across Boerne and the San Antonio area—so your pavers, drainage, lighting, and irrigation all work together.
FAQ: Pavers Installation in Boerne & San Antonio
How long does a paver patio installation take?
Many patios can be installed in a few days, but timelines vary based on excavation needs, drainage additions, access for equipment, and whether you’re adding lighting or irrigation coordination.
Do I need a thicker base in the Hill Country?
Often, yes. While pedestrian areas may start around a 4-inch compacted base on well-drained soils, poor drainage or weak subgrade conditions typically justify more depth and careful compaction. (masonryandhardscapes.org)
What’s the biggest cause of pavers shifting or sinking?
Insufficient excavation depth, poor compaction, missing edge restraint, and unmanaged runoff are common culprits. The base and edges do the heavy lifting for long-term stability.
Should I choose polymeric sand for the joints?
Many homeowners like polymeric sand because it can reduce weed growth and washout in joints. It must be installed carefully (clean surface, correct watering technique) to avoid haze.
Can paver work be combined with irrigation upgrades?
Yes—and it’s smart to coordinate them. If irrigation is being modified, you may also need to consider backflow prevention and local requirements designed to protect potable water. (ci.boerne.tx.us)
Glossary
Edge restraint
A rigid border system (often plastic, aluminum, or concrete) that prevents pavers from spreading outward and loosening over time.
Dense-graded aggregate base
A compactable mix of stone sizes used under pavers to distribute weight and provide a stable, drain-friendly foundation.
Bedding sand
A thin leveling layer placed over the compacted base that helps set pavers to final grade and consistent elevation. (westernhardscape.org)
Backflow prevention
Devices and testing requirements intended to stop contaminated water from flowing back into the public potable water system—especially relevant for irrigation connections. (ci.boerne.tx.us)
