How to Choose a Paver Contractor in Brentwood, CA

1. Check the license first

CSLB's C-29 Masonry classification covers installing masonry units, including paving, with or without mortar (CSLB). CSLB says anyone contracting for work valued at $1,000 or more in combined labor and materials, or work that needs a permit, must hold a current, valid license (CSLB). Contractors can hold other classifications, so ask which one applies to your job, then verify it on the CSLB license check.

2. Get it in writing: what a good paver quote includes

• Area in square feet and the layout
• Excavation depth and haul-off of the removed soil
• Base material and compacted base depth
• Geotextile fabric, if used
• Bedding sand and edge restraint
• Paver brand, type and thickness
• Pattern and border or soldier course
• Joint sand type and whether sealing is included
• Who handles drainage and slope
• Warranty on settling, and its exclusions, in writing
• Payment schedule and start and completion dates

3. Base depth is the key detail

HomeGuide lists 4 to 6 inches of base for pedestrian areas and 6 to 12 inches for driveways (HomeGuide). A quote with no base depth leaves you guessing about the part that matters most. Ask how the base is compacted and what holds the edges in.

4. Know the deposit limit

CSLB's homeowner checklist says a down payment should be no more than 10% of the contract price or $1,000, whichever is less (CSLB).

5. Questions to ask

• Who will do the work, and will subcontractors be used?
• What base depth and compaction method will you use?
• What happens if the pavers settle, and how long does the warranty last?
• How will water drain away from the surface and the house?
• Do you offer sealing, and what upkeep should I plan for?

If a contractor mentions an industry certification, such as a paver-installer certification, you can ask for proof. This site makes no certification claims about any contractor.

6. Red flags

• No base depth, no mention of compaction or edge restraint
• An unnamed paver product
• A large deposit or a cash-only discount
• Pressure to sign right away

How our quote request works

You tell us about your project. We pass it to an independent contractor serving East Contra Costa, who contacts you directly. We don't set prices, schedules or warranties. See how referrals work.

Hiring for concrete instead?

Poured concrete has its own checklist. Read how to choose a concrete contractor.

Sources

• CSLB — C-29 Masonry classification (accessed Oct 2026)
• CSLB — What Kind of Contractor Do You Need? (accessed Oct 2026)
• CSLB — Check a License (accessed Oct 2026)
• CSLB — Homeowner Checklists (accessed Oct 2026)
• HomeGuide — Paver Patio Cost (Sep 18, 2024)