Interlock failures in Ottawa are most often caused by the region’s intense freeze–thaw cycles. Ottawa winters bring deep freezes followed by frequent thaws, which cause moisture trapped beneath interlocking pavers to expand and contract repeatedly. When water freezes, it expands, pushing pavers upward; when it thaws, the ground settles unevenly. Over time, this movement leads to sinking, heaving, gaps, and cracked pavers. Without proper installation designed specifically for Ottawa’s climate, even high-quality interlock will eventually fail.

A deep, well-compacted base and effective drainage system are the foundation of long-lasting interlock in Ottawa. The base must extend below the frost line enough to resist frost heave, typically using multiple layers of granular material compacted in stages. Proper drainage ensures water is directed away from the base instead of pooling beneath the pavers, where it can freeze and cause movement. Skipping base depth or drainage to cut costs almost always results in premature failure, especially in clay-heavy Ottawa soils that retain moisture.