How to Prepare Your Yard for a Concrete or Paver Project

A little preparation before your contractor arrives can make a meaningful difference in how smoothly a concrete or paver project goes — and in some cases, it can reduce your total cost. Here's what we recommend homeowners do before the crew shows up.

Before Work Begins

1. Clear the Area Completely

Remove all furniture, potted plants, vehicles, toys, and decorations from the work area and a generous buffer around it. Concrete and paver work is messy — slurry, sand, and debris will spread beyond the immediate work zone. Give the crew clear access and plenty of working room.

2. Mark Utilities

Before any digging or demolition, call 811 (California's free dig-safe service) to have underground utilities marked. This is not optional — hitting a gas line or irrigation pipe is dangerous and expensive. Most contractors will require this to be done before they start. Schedule it at least a few business days ahead.

3. Address Drainage Issues First

If your yard has existing drainage problems — water pooling, poor slope, or soggy areas — discuss them with your contractor before work begins rather than after. Concrete and pavers will make drainage issues more pronounced if not addressed as part of the project design. A good contractor will ask about this; bring it up proactively.

4. Discuss Tree Roots

Point out any established trees near the work area. Depending on species and proximity, your contractor may recommend root barriers, root pruning, or a modified design to prevent future damage to the finished surface.

5. Confirm Access for Concrete Trucks

Concrete mixer trucks are large. Confirm with your contractor how the truck will access the pour area — whether it can reach the site directly or whether the concrete will need to be moved via wheelbarrow. Tight access affects scheduling and sometimes cost.

6. Know Your HOA Rules

Many LA-area neighborhoods and planned communities have HOA guidelines about driveway materials, colors, and finishes. Check before finalizing your material selection — particularly for pavers, where color and pattern choices may be regulated.

During the Project

Keep children and pets away from active work areas. Freshly poured concrete is caustic — it can cause skin burns on contact. Stay off new concrete for at least 24–48 hours for foot traffic, and 7–10 days before driving on it.