Frequently Asked Questions

In the Atlanta metro area, paver patios typically cost $16–$22 per square foot for standard concrete pavers, translating to $8,000–$25,000 for most residential projects in Roswell, Alpharetta, and Johns Creek. Luxury outdoor living spaces featuring fire pits, seating walls, or outdoor kitchens can exceed $40 per square foot. Factors that affect price include paver material, project size, site grading, and design complexity.

A paver driveway in the Atlanta area costs $15–$30 per square foot installed, depending on the material chosen. For a standard two-car driveway (approximately 960 sq ft), expect to invest $13,000–$20,000. Concrete pavers are the most affordable option, while natural cobblestone can reach $30–$70 per square foot. Pavers offer significantly better curb appeal, easier repairs, and longer lifespan compared to poured concrete.

For Georgia homeowners, pavers are generally the better long-term investment. Georgia's red clay soil expands when wet and contracts during dry spells, which causes poured concrete to crack over time. Pavers are interlocking and flex with soil movement rather than cracking. Individual pavers can be replaced if damaged without a full re-pour, they provide better traction during wet winters and ice events, and they offer superior drainage and curb appeal.

In Roswell and most Metro Atlanta municipalities, a building permit is required for retaining walls over 3 feet in height. Walls exceeding this threshold typically require a licensed engineer's stamped plan, a topographical survey, a site plan, and possibly a Land Disturbance Permit. Paver patios at grade generally do not require permits, but rules vary by city. At Tucano Stones & Pavers, we handle permit research and documentation as part of your project.

Retaining wall construction in Metro Atlanta averages $40–$60 per square foot, with most residential projects totaling $3,000–$10,000 or more depending on wall height and length. Concrete block runs $20–$40/sq ft, timber $15–$30/sq ft, poured concrete $30–$60/sq ft, and natural stone $50–$100/sq ft. Atlanta's red clay soil requires proper drainage installation (French drains, gravel backfill) to prevent wall failure.

Properly installed and maintained pavers last 25–50 years in Georgia's climate, with clay brick pavers lasting 50–100 years. Natural stone such as granite, bluestone, and travertine can last a lifetime. The key variables are installation quality — a properly compacted gravel base is critical — and regular maintenance including re-sanding joints every 1–2 years and sealing every 3–5 years.

Yes, Atlanta's humidity creates ideal conditions for mold, algae, and mildew growth on paver surfaces, especially in shaded areas. Prevention strategies include sealing your pavers every 1–3 years with a professional-grade sealer, improving drainage and sunlight exposure, cleaning annually with a pressure washer and non-caustic solution, and re-sanding polymeric sand joints as needed. Professional cleaning and sealing is recommended over DIY for porous stone.

Yes. Well-designed hardscaping consistently adds resale value. National data shows paver patios return 80–109% of installation cost at resale. In Metro Atlanta's competitive real estate market, where outdoor living is a year-round priority, a professionally installed paver patio, outdoor kitchen, or retaining wall system can be a decisive selling point. The key to maximizing return is professional installation, quality materials, and a design that integrates with the home's architecture.

A typical paver patio installation takes 4–7 days for a professional crew on an average residential project (300–600 sq ft). A paver driveway takes 5–10 days. Timeline factors include project complexity, site preparation requirements, material type, and weather. We will not install on saturated ground as it compromises the base. Most projects complete in under two weeks from start to finish.

Each paver type performs well when properly installed. Concrete pavers (Belgard, Techo-Bloc) offer the best value with hundreds of colors and 25–50 year lifespan. Brick pavers provide a timeless look with 50–100 year durability. Natural stone like travertine stays cooler underfoot, making it ideal for pool surrounds in Georgia summers. For driveways, concrete or brick pavers are recommended. For pool decks, travertine or textured concrete pavers are preferred for comfort and safety.