An Introduction to Concrete Pavers
Whether designing a patio or walkway – or adding some edging to your yard – options abound. In fact, hunting at your local hardware store for the right material to use can feel overwhelming because of the sheer number of choices.
Poured concrete or stone?
Stone or brick?
Textured or smooth?
And what about all the available colors?
How do you decide on a material that fits your budget, style, and need?
Concrete pavers can be the perfect mix. A concrete paver is more affordable than many of its competitors (like stone or other kinds of pavers). They’re also more durable than brick and can be found in a variety of colors. And since you can easily purchase them individually, they’re easy to install and replace (if you’re willing to put in the effort).
(If you’re wanting to cover a large, flat area such as a driveway, you might want to also consider stamped concrete.)
What’s the difference between interlocking and slab concrete pavers?
When browsing for concrete pavers, you may realize that there are two kinds available: interlocking and slab. Interlocking concrete pavers are made with a very rigid concrete mix and they feature spacers on their edges, offering uniform joints. Slab concrete pavers don’t include these spacers. Instead, they’re simple rectangular slabs that are normally thinner than interlocking pavers.
What’s the cost of a concrete paver?
Like most other kinds of pavers, concrete pavers come in a wide assortment of different styles. However, you can generally find them in the $2.00 to $10.00 range per square foot. That’s just for the pavers themselves though. If you want to have them professionally installed, you’ll likely end up paying up to $15.00 per square foot.
What are concrete pavers good for?
Concrete pavers can be used for any number of things, including patios and walkways. You can even use the thicker interlocking concrete pavers for a driveway. But don’t try to use the slab pavers, they likely won’t be able to take the weight of your vehicle.
How well do concrete pavers hold up? Are they easy to maintain?
Since interlocking pavers are built thicker and stronger, they can hold up to just about anything you might dish out. Slab pavers tend to be a little more fragile and won’t take as much abuse. However, if you use each kind in its proper place, both of them should last well into the coming years. And they’re some of the easiest materials to care for because they’re concrete. Sweep them when they get loose dirt or leaves on them and power wash them if they look stained. That’s about all it takes.
Do concrete pavers have any disadvantages?
Sure, everything has disadvantages. However, many of the disadvantages they do have can be minimized with a paver sealer. For example, they tend to stain easily (especially with substances like oil), they also are a prime target for weeds and other unwanted plants to grow around. However, with a properly stained area of concrete pavers, staining will be minimal, and weeds will be practically non-existent. Though it’s important to recognize that you will need to reapply that sealer every few years.
Click here for more information about our concrete and paver sealer products.
