Wet Laying vs. Dry Laid Pavers

If you're planning a patio, walkway, or driveway using pavers, one of the first decisions you'll face is whether to go with a dry-laid or wet-laid installation. While both options can give you a beautiful and functional finished product, they’re built very differently and serve different purposes.

This guide will break down the differences between the two methods, how each is installed, the pros and cons of each, and how to decide what’s best for your project.

What is a Dry-Laid Paver System?

Dry-laid pavers are installed without the use of poured concrete or mortar. Instead, the pavers sit on a compacted base of gravel and sand, and joints are typically filled with sand or polymeric sand to lock them in place.

How It's Installed:

1. Excavation: Dig out the area to the required depth (usually 6"–12" depending on use and soil).

2. Base Layer: Install and compact a gravel base (typically 4"–8").

3. Bedding Layer: Add 1" of bedding sand (usually concrete or sharp sand).

4. Paver Placement: Lay the pavers in your desired pattern.

5. Joint Filling: Sweep in polymeric or jointing sand.

6. Compaction: Compact the pavers to lock them in and create a solid surface.

What is a Wet-Laid Paver System?

Wet-laid pavers are installed on a poured concrete slab or mortar bed. The pavers are often mortared in place, and joints are typically filled with mortar or grout.

How It's Installed:

1. Excavation: Similar to dry-laid, but typically deeper to allow for a concrete slab.

2. Concrete Pour or Slab Prep: A reinforced concrete slab is poured and allowed to cure.

3. Mortar Bed: A mortar layer is added on top of the slab.

4. Paver Placement: Pavers are placed into the mortar bed and adjusted.

5. Grouting Joints: Joints are filled with mortar or polymer-modified grout.

6. Sealing (Optional): Often sealed to protect against staining and weathering.

Pros and Cons: Dry-Laid vs Wet-Laid

AspectDry-LaidWet-LaidInstallation SpeedFaster, less curing timeSlower, concrete and mortar require time to cureFlexibilityFlexible—can shift slightly with freeze/thaw cyclesRigid—may crack over time with soil movementDrainagePermeable (depending on sand/joint choice)Impermeable unless drains are addedCostGenerally more affordableMore expensive due to materials and laborRepairabilityEasy to lift and replace pavers if neededRepairs are more difficult and may require regroutingDurability (Long-Term)Very durable, but may shift over timeExtremely solid when done right; less shiftingMaintenanceOccasional sanding and weed controlMortar joints may crack or deteriorate over time

When to Use Each System

Dry-Laid is Ideal When:

• You want a cost-effective, time-efficient install.

• Your soil has movement or is prone to freeze/thaw cycles.

• You're doing a walkway, patio, or light-use driveway.

• You want the ability to easily repair or update later.

• Drainage is a concern — water can filter through the joints and base.

Wet-Laid is Ideal When:

• You need an ultra-stable surface (e.g., around pools or in high-end applications).

• You're in a warmer climate with little ground movement.

• You’re installing thin pavers or natural stone that need a solid, level base.

• You want a more formal, rigid look with tight, mortared joints.

• Drainage is controlled elsewhere (slopes, drains, etc.).

Common Misconceptions

• "Dry-laid is cheap and won’t last."
  Not true. A well-installed dry-laid system can last 20+ years with proper base prep.

• "Wet-laid is always better."
  Not necessarily. While it’s more solid in ideal conditions, movement in the slab or soil can cause cracking that’s costly to repair.

• "You need to mortar joints to prevent weeds."
  Polymeric sand in dry-laid joints does a great job at resisting weeds and washout when properly installed.

Final Thoughts

Both systems have their place — and both can be done poorly or well. The best choice comes down to climate, usage, soil type, drainage, and your budget.

At Terrain Bound, we typically recommend dry-laid for most residential patios, walkways, and even driveways because of its flexibility, affordability, and proven performance over time in Colorado’s climate. But when a project calls for added rigidity or has design constraints, we’re always ready to build it wet-laid and do it right.

Need help choosing the right system for your project?
We’d be happy to talk through your goals, inspect your site, and guide you toward the best long-term solution.