For contractors, every paver project comes down to durability and appearance. A patio, driveway, or walkway may look sharp on day one, but without the right foundation and restraint system, that same project can shift, spread, or fail within a season. Edge restraints are one of the most overlooked yet important steps in paver installation. They hold the system together, keep lines straight, and help the job withstand traffic and weather cycles.
What Are Edge Restraints?
An edge restraint is a border or frame that locks pavers into place. Whether it’s a patio, driveway, or commercial hardscape, the restraint prevents the pavers from shifting outward when subjected to traffic, load, or freeze/thaw cycles. Without a proper edge restraint, bedding sand and base material begin to escape, leading to uneven surfaces, broken joints, and callbacks no contractor wants.
In simple terms: edge restraints keep the design tight, straight, and reliable. They’re a small step that determines whether a project lasts a few years or a few decades.
Where edge constraints are used:
- Patios with concrete pavers or porcelain pavers.
- Walkways where straight runs must remain aligned.
- Driveways and parking areas exposed to vehicle loads.
- Decorative outdoor spaces where edging stones double as both function and design.
Types of Edge Restraints Contractors Use
Edge restraints come in several forms, each with its advantages and drawbacks. Choosing the right type depends on the project design, traffic load, and long-term goals.
| Type | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic edging | Residential patios, curves, light traffic | Flexible for curved runs, affordable, easy to install | Can heave in thaw cycles, less durable for heavy loads |
| Metal edge restraint | Straight runs, commercial installs | Strong, long-lasting, low profile | Higher upfront cost, less flexible for curves |
| Concrete curb (concrete edge restraint) | Driveways, vehicle traffic | Permanent, withstands heavy loads | Labor-intensive, requires more time to install |
| Edging stones | Decorative outdoor space | Adds aesthetic appeal, blends with design | Can shift if not supported by compacted base |
Plastic Edge Restraint
The most common option for residential work, plastic edge restraints are lightweight and simple to cut for curves. They work well with bedding sand and compacted base material but require proper spiking and backfill to avoid movement during thaw cycles.
Metal Edge Restraint
Steel and aluminum edge restraints are popular for straight lines and commercial jobs. They provide strong holding power, withstand heavy use, and stay low-profile for a clean finish. Contractors appreciate their durability, though flexibility is limited compared to plastic.
Concrete Edge Restraint
Concrete curbs or poured-in-place edging are built for heavy loads. They’re often used on driveways, roads, and areas where vehicles pass regularly. While reliable, they require more labor and time compared to other restraint systems.
Edging Stones
Natural stone or manufactured edging stones serve both as a restraint and a design element. They add visual weight to an outdoor space but require proper compaction and bedding to prevent shifting.
Why Edge Restraints Matter in Paver Installation
Skipping edge restraints is a fast way to guarantee future problems. Contractors who take the time to install restraints protect their projects and their reputation.
Benefits of proper edge restraint:
- Prevents migration of bedding sand and base material.
- Maintains alignment in straight runs and curves.
- Resists shifting during freeze/thaw cycles.
- Supports joint sand stability for tighter bonds.
- Delivers long-lasting results that reduce callbacks and rebuilds.
For landscape contractors, edge restraints aren’t optional. They are an important step that keeps a paver project intact long after the final compaction.
Installation Best Practices for Contractors
Installing edge restraints doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require consistency. The steps below are proven to give contractors a professional, long-lasting result:
#1 Prepare a solid base.
Use compacted base material that extends beyond the paver field where the restraint will sit. A strong base is the foundation of the entire restraint system.
#2 Lay bedding sand evenly.
Bedding sand provides a level surface for pavers. Avoid excess sand, as it can lead to shifting after compaction.
#3 Place the edge restraint snugly.
Position the plastic edge restraint, metal edge restraint, or curb tight against the pavers. For curved runs, cut restraints as needed to maintain flexibility.
#4 Secure with spikes.
Drive spikes through restraint slots into the compacted base. The spacing of spikes varies by manufacturer but is usually every 8–12 inches.
#5 Backfill and compact.
Add base material or soil against the outside of the restraint for stability. Compact the area using a plate compactor.
#6 Final compaction.
Compact the paver field again to lock joint sand and the restraint system in place.
Choosing the Right Edge Restraint for Your Project
Not every project calls for the same restraint. Contractors should weigh several factors before deciding:
- Project type: Patios, walkways, and decorative spaces often use plastic edging or stone restraints. Driveways and commercial spaces lean toward metal or concrete curbs.
- Load and traffic: Foot traffic tolerates lighter restraints, but vehicle traffic requires stronger solutions.
- Design: Curved runs benefit from flexible plastic edge restraints, while long straight lines look sharper with metal.
- Paver type: Porcelain pavers and thin paver tiles may require low-profile edging to maintain a flush surface.
Common Contractor Questions About Edge Restraints
Do I need edge restraints on every project?
Yes. Even if a patio borders a wall or house, open sides still require restraint. Without it, paver edges will shift outward over time.
What happens if I skip the edge restraint step?
Skipping this step leads to paver creep, joint sand loss, and uneven surfaces. The project lifespan drops significantly.
Can I cut pavers tight to a wall instead of using edging?
You can cut pavers to fit against a wall, but the open sides must still have an edge restraint. Tight cuts don’t replace restraint systems.
How do thaw cycles affect edge restraints?
Freeze/thaw cycles push against the paver field, especially in colder climates. A proper restraint system prevents outward movement and protects the base material.
What’s the difference between plastic edge restraint and snap edge systems?
Both are plastic restraints. Snap edge systems are designed for quick installation and often come in modular sections, while standard plastic edging may require more cutting.
Tools for Faster, Better Paver Jobs
Contractors rely on more than just the restraint itself for a successful installation. The tools used during a paver project play a major role in speed, accuracy, and overall quality.
EZG Paver Tools, including Dust Paver Tools, are designed for contractors who need efficient, durable equipment:
- Straight cuts on pavers for tight fits against edge restraints.
- Faster production on large-scale jobs where time equals money.
- Cleaner work areas with dust control options for safer crews and clients.
- Reduced downtime with equipment built for durability and long service life.
When contractors combine proper edge restraint practices with EZG equipment, they deliver results that look sharp and hold up under years of use.
Explore EZG Paver Tools today and see how the right equipment can help you deliver straighter lines, cleaner cuts, and professional results every time.
