How Do I Choose Pavers?

Are you planning to install pavers in your backyard? If yes, we know how challenging it can be, especially if you are a new homeowner. We have years of experience in the paver industry and can help you answer the question, "How do I choose pavers for my backyard?”.

The best way to choose pavers for your outdoor space is by considering various factors, such as durability, texture, size, color, and overall style. The weather also plays a role when choosing your pavers since some are affected by weather conditions. Consider the type of usage your paver will be subjected to, as driveways and pathways require durable, strong pavers.

Gray cat sleeping on top of gray paved streets

Generally, before committing to a paver choice, you must conduct thorough research. You want to avoid purchasing a type of paver that will mess up your outdoor space and compromise the consistent look of your home. Conducting thorough research involves asking other homeowners who have successfully installed pavers. Online research is also ideal as you will get numerous results and make the comparison.

The other way of choosing the right pavers is consulting with the experts. Approach a reputable company to enlighten you on the best pavers to use. At Aviara Pavers, we have experts who will advise you on the right pavers to buy before we come to install them. We are a reputable company that follows ICPI standards and certifications for all things (driveway depth, patios, swimming pool decks) related to pavers.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Pavers

Choosing pavers takes time and a lot of consideration, as you need a material that will ensure your home is appealing and safe. Therefore, to achieve this, there are factors you must consider before making the final decision. Here are some of the factors:

Budget

A paving project requires a clear budget that ensures a smooth completion. Remember that a one-time project will likely save you money in the long run, unlike starting a project and pausing, before resuming again. The best way to create a clear budget is to conduct thorough research. You can do this by calling different (at least three) landscaping companies to compare the prices or ask other homeowners in your neighborhood.

If you decide to rely on the landscaping companies, ask them about estimated timelines for project completion, the labor cost, the type of sand to use, and prices of other materials needed when carrying out the work. Also, ask them about previous projects. This will give a clear picture of what company does a better job and at what budget.

Worker with a hammer in one hand while laying paved stones outdoors

You can also estimate the overall cost and budget by measuring the area needed to be paved. To do this, measure the width and multiply by the length measurement (in square meters). This will give you the number of pavers needed to cover the whole area. Multiply the number of pavers plus the unit price to get the required amount. Add an extra 5% to cover miscellaneous costs.

Strength and Durability

Strength and durability are key factors when choosing pavers for your outdoor space. Some places in the compound experience high traffic or are frequented by vehicles. These areas require tough pavers to withstand the additional pressure.

In most cases, it is recommended to use a 50mm or 60mm thick paver to withstand weight-bearing loads, plus the skidding and twisting of tires. Another excellent way to ensure the strength and durability of your pavers is interlocking them in a pattern.

Safety

You must consider safety when choosing a paver to install in your compound, especially if you have kids and pests. Install a slip-resistant sealed paver at the pool decks and pathways to ensure safety. A scratch-resistant and hardwearing paver is also required in places where there are kids and pets.

Weather Resistance

Changes in the weather can greatly impact your pavers over time. Rain, extreme heat, and coldness are weather elements that can affect your pavers, leading to costly repairs. Therefore, consider choosing a paver that resists extremely harsh weather conditions.

Most companies manufacturing pavers provide instructions and features, so read them to get a weather-resistant paver. Still, you can take samples from the local supplier and present them to our company for advice.

Maintenance

Pavers need regular maintenance to ensure they last longer. Before choosing an ideal paver for your patio, driveway, pool deck, or pathway, consider getting one with low maintenance. This means that the type of paver should be readily available so that you can purchase it to do the repair.

Gray paved stones in an outdoor boardwalk

Maintaining pavers is an easy task that you can carry out without getting services from a company. Here are some of the ways of maintaining your pavers:

Sweep the pavers regularly: Regular sweeping helps remove the dirt and debris that can build up and break your pavers.
Seal your pavers: This is a great way of protecting your pavers from fading due to UV lights. Apply the sealer after installation or after conducting a thorough cleaning.
Replace broken and stained pavers: Ensure you remove stained and broken pavers to give your lawn a refreshing look.
Always clean your pavers naturally: This is a great way to ensure the pavers last longer. You can use vinegar and warm water to clean the pavers. This helps kill molds and weeds, which can cause pavers to chip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Type of Paver?

The best type of paver is concrete, followed by brick pavers. These two types of pavers are strong and durable, making them a popular choice for homeowners. On the other hand, rubber pavers are slip-resistant, making them ideal for pool decks.

What Is the Best Size for Pavers?

The best size for pavers is 6 x 12 x 3 1/8-inch, which is enough to cover a residential area. This is also strong enough to withstand high traffic experienced in most residential areas.

Which Pavers Are the Strongest?

The strongest pavers are gravel or grass-filled plastic pavers. These pavers are the most durable and eco-friendly. They come in various shapes, sizes, colors, and textures, allowing you to choose one that suits your preference.

Conclusion

Choosing pavers can be a daunting task if you need the correct information. Always consider the budget, maintenance, strength, durability, and safety. You can also consult the experts to provide vital information regarding pavers. This way, you will choose pavers that suit your style preference.