All concrete pavers are made with sand, gravel, portland cement, and water, but their durability, texture and color vary depending on how they’re constructed.
A paver is concrete poured into a mold. This can create a wide variety of products to choose from because the molds can be different shapes and sizes and the concrete can be different colors. They fall into two categories: interlocking and architectural slab.
Interlocking pavers were created when bricks were in short supply after World War II and were used for roads – many of which are still in good shape today – making a perfect transition for today’s driveways.
Architecural slab pavers give a more high-end appeal. They are thinner so they aren’t perfect for a driveway and they also don’t tolerate the freeze-thaw cycle as well.
Care of Pavers
Keeping them clear of debris and occasional weeding is all you need to do. No sealing, no painting, no staining. Almost maintenance free! One of the downfalls though is that pavers will absorb stains, especially oil stains. Cleaning a stain means using a degreaser and a pressure washer or replacing the paver.
Great Reasons to use Pavers
- Pavers don’t require curing time. Concrete can take 3-5 days before being ready for use; pavers can be used right away.
- Pavers have great drainage due to the number of joints – plenty of places for the rain to run off.
- Pavers are a great solution for a pool because they are less slippery.
- Pavers typically don’t crack and in the unlikely event they do you can always replace just one.
So, now that I’ve convinced you that a paver is the right product to use check out our 10 steps to installing a paver patio.
