Pavements are part of the hardscape in landscaping and they are used on patios, courtyards, road surfaces, sidewalks, and so on. Pavements spread to the sub-base and soil underneath. Pavements are built using something known as pavers.
What are Pavers?
Walkways, patios, driveways, pavements and so on are constructed using thin flat stones. These stones are known as pavers. You can use different types of materials for pavers, but the most common ones used are concrete, stone, and bricks. You might also find pavers made of flagstone, artificial stone, tiles, cobblestone, and wood.
Types of Pavers
Concrete Pavers
Concrete is one of the most commonly used materials for pavers made from crushed cement, stones, and sand. Concrete pavers are suitable for driveways and situations where large amounts of paving materials are required at an optimal cost.
Advantages of Concrete Pavers
- They cost less than brick pavers.
- They come in many different colors, shapes, and sizes.
- Concrete pavers are easy to install.
Disadvantages of Concrete Pavers
- They can fade with prolonged exposure to sun.
- Concrete wears away with time.
- They erode and are not durable in the long run.
- They are not long-lasting.
Stone Pavers
Stone pavers are cut and gathered for selling as pavers or mined from a quarry or rock outcrop. They can be of many different types: granite, limestone, marble, porphyry, bluestone, flagstone, sandstone, slate, and so on. Each type has its own characteristics and is suitable for different applications. Stone pavers look very natural because they are made of natural stone. They are, however, an expensive option.
Advantages of Stone Pavers
- They are easy to install.
- Stone pavers are available in different sizes and shapes.
- They look very natural.
Disadvantages of Stone Pavers
- They soak up extra moisture.
- Stone pavers can break during harsh winters.
- Design and colors are limited.
Brick or Clay Pavers
Brick pavers have been used as a surfacing material for many years. They are made of shale and clay and this makes them very hard and durable. They are a popular choice as pacing material because of their durability and classic appeal. Brick pavers are used for gardens, open areas, roads, pedestrian zones, and pavements. They are available in many different color tones of brown and red.
Advantages of Clay Pavers
- They are very tough and durable.
- Brick pavers are very good to look at.
- They are resistant to extreme weather conditions.
- Brick pavers do not fade.
- Easy water drainage is possible.
Disadvantages of Clay Pavers
- There is a limited number of colors and patterns available in case of clay pavers.
Installing Pavers
Here is how you install pavers:
- Prepare the Area: Mark the perimeter with marking paint and drive wooden stakes into the ground just outside the perimeter, attaching a mason line to the stakes.
- Clear Soil and Grass: Dig out the area and clear out the soil, weeds, and grass. Remember to keep four inches for paver base and one inch for paver sand when fixing the depth.
- Spread Paver Base: Spread four inches of paver base throughout and lightly wet it.
- Add Paver Sand: Use an electrical conduit to make tracks and pour the sand across and between the conduits, and then level the sand layer. Fill any gaps.
- Place the Paver Stones: Lay out the pavers one by one until you have filled the area.
- Cut Pavers: Cut the pavers if needed to fit the design of the area.
- Add Edging Stones: Secure edging stones along the edges using nails.
- Finish the Paving: Spread a light layer of paver sand over the entire area and sweep the extra into the gaps.
Enjoy the new piece of paving you have built for years to come!
