Concrete Pavers - Pros and Cons of Using This Paving Material
Posted: Sunday, January 20, 2008
by Susan Schlenger
Susan Schlenger Landscape Design
It's sometimes difficult to decide which paving material to use on a project. There are so many choices; they all have pros and cons. Sooner or later you will probably consider concrete pavers.
Read on to find out all you need to know about them to make the decision if they are right for you.
Here are the Pros of why they are a good choice, whether you are considering them for a driveway design, walkway, patio or pool paving:
- Pavers come in many different colors. Bluestone is pretty much limited to the blue/gray color. Concrete can be colored, but it can be a challenge getting the right color mixed into the mortar. Brick is ...well, brick colored.
- There are many different patterns and sizes to choose from. You can use all one size or select a random pattern with mixed sizes. This presents a cobblestone look. Available sizes range from the very small to the very large.
- You can select from different kinds of pavers. There is the more simple, structured paver or the stone-like ones. The latter are known as tumbled pavers and create a more natural look. The fit is not as tight and the edges are uneven to mimic stone.
- They last a long time and do not deteriorate.
- Pavers are moderately priced. They are more than concrete, but less than brick or stone.
- Many paver companies offer coordinating circle kits. This is a nice design element. It is actually a circle, with the paver pattern radiating outward. This can offer a nice break to a large areas of pavers.
- Since they are dry laid, if there is ever a problem with the installation, a paver or pavers can be easily replaced.
Here are the Cons of why they might not be right for your project:
- Pavers can be hot on your feet. If you walk barefoot a lot or if they are to be used in a pool area, this is something to think about.
- They are not a natural material. They are made from concrete. This is not necessarily bad. It is just a matter of the look you want for your project. Material such as bluestone or travertine pavers are natural stone products and offer a different kind of look.
- They can fade over time. This probably will not effect the look that much, but the original color won't be completely retained.
Conclusion: Concrete pavers are definitely something to consider, particularly if natural stone is too costly. I have used them on projects that have turned out very, very nice. For pool paving, another option, such as less expensive concrete or more expensive travertine pavers would be cool on your feet and better choices.
You can read more about concrete pavers at my website, where I discuss more detailed design considerations and installation procedures.
Susan Schlenger is a Landscape Designer with a degree in Landscape Architecture. Read more about Concrete Pavers at her website. You might also be interested in learning more about Travertine Pavers.
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