The Utah Paver Driveway Buyer's Guide

Thickness and Base Depth Matter Most

Driveway pavers should be rated for vehicle loads, and the compacted base under them is typically 8 to 12 inches depending on soil. Skimping here is the single most common cause of a driveway that ruts within a few years.

Pattern and Border Choices

Herringbone at 45 or 90 degrees interlocks best under turning tires. A contrasting soldier course border frames the field and cleanly handles the transition to landscape or walkways.

Permeable Options

Permeable paver systems let water pass through the joints into an open graded base. They help where a city limits impervious coverage or where runoff currently pools.

Questions to Ask Your Contractor

1. What base depth and material are you specifying, and why?
2. Is the paver rated for vehicular use?
3. How will you handle drainage and the apron transition?
4. What edge restraint system do you use?
5. What does the workmanship warranty cover?

For commercial drive lanes and shared parking courts, see our commercial paver installation page.

Published by Empire Pavers on April 1, 2026.