What are the Different Kinds of Outdoor Pavers?

Some homeowners prefer to use pavers in their yard instead of cement in order to create a walkway or patio. One of the most common materials used in outdoor pavers is stone, which is known for looking natural and unique, as no two stones are the exact same. On the other hand, some people like the uniformity that brick pavers bring to a yard, as bricks are typically all the same size and shape and can easily form patterns. Of course, concrete may be used in pavers as an alternative to the typical cement patio, as they are often easier to install and quite durable.

Those going for a natural look in their yard often opt for outdoor pavers made of stone. This type of material is known for being unique since no two stones are exactly alike, unlike most bricks. The stone is either mined or collected from a rock outcrop rather than being manufactured, and can range from limestone and sandstone, to bluestone and porphyry. This type of paver is typically durable, nonslip, and resistant to both frost and direct sunlight, allowing it to last for years. Stone pavers are often easy to install since they can be placed on most hard surfaces, including sand or soil, and are considered low maintenance.

Another type of paver that is considered durable is brick, though this material has the added bonus of also being flexible enough to adjust itself without cracking when the soil underneath it moves. Of course, outdoor pavers made of brick are also nonslip since they have some texture, and are quite easy to clean using soap and water. Though bricks are put together by man, the main component in them is clay, making them nearly as natural as stone. These types of pavers are best in areas with moderate weather, and are easy to install and replace when necessary.

Concrete is another material used to create outdoor pavers, and is known for being less expensive to purchase and install than other types. This is one of the strongest types of outdoor pavers available, as concrete is able to withstand heavy loads, high heat, and extreme frost. Thus, it can be installed in areas with all types of weather, and is ready to be used immediately after installation. Unlike poured concrete, these types of patio pavers do not tend to crack, and also usually feature a non-skid surface so that pedestrians are unlikely to slip on them when wet. They can be swept clean and rinsed with water, or pressure washed to get rid of heavy dirt.