So, your next home project is to redo your yard. A portion of it is going to be a walkway leading to a beautiful patio. The design is already drawn. Now you have to decide on the materials you are going to use. What kinds of pavers are the best for your project? Despite the variety of options at your local hardware store, primarily, there are three kinds of pavers: concrete, natural stone and, brick. This article will give you a breakdown of each.
Brick Pavers
Bricks have been around for centuries. They are reliable and durable. They are reasonably priced and easy to install. Since they have been around for so long, they can be associated with old, classic designs. Using bricks for your project adds these elements to your home. A relatively one-dimensional look can be attractive for some applications, but some people are more comfortable moving beyond brick. In the end, it’s up to you, the homeowner.
Concrete Pavers
Gravel, sand, cement and water, these are the four ingredients to make concrete. Pavers made of this age-old mixture are made by adding dye and pouring the mixture into molds. There are two popular kinds of concrete pavers, interlocking and architectural slab.
Interlocking pavers were invented after World War II as a substitute for bricks. They are very thick and the mixture of concrete used in them is very strong. Because of this strength, they can be used for driveways. In order to have uniformity, edge spacers are put in place. These pavers come in a wide variety of colors.
Architectural pavers are thinner and are made from a more diluted concrete mixture. Because of this, they are not ideal for driveways. In order to give them a more natural look, edge spacers are not used. While they can be colored, they are usually neutral toned.
Travertine Pavers
Travertine pavers are made of natural stone and they are a popular choice for many reasons. One of them is its look, which is often associated with very high-end finishes. Because of this, it can add value to your home. Travertine was very popular in ancient Rome, so it naturally complements European architectural designs. It is very easy to maintain and does not discolor over time. It stays cool on hot days and is very durable. Tumbled travertine pavers can be slippery when wet, but a non-slip treatment can be applied to the stone to prevent this.
Each type of paver brings different strengths to your project. These options can enhance the beauty and the overall value of your home.