Best Pavers for Extraordinary Patios and Pool Areas

Landscaping can be a great way to make your home more attractive. From planting vibrant flowers to installing elegant water features, there are many ways to boost your curb appeal. But what about the curb itself?

Pavers are a great way to add style and function to your home’s landscaping. Not only can they add visual interest, but pavers can create functional walkways, patios and driveways. The pavers you choose, however, can make a big difference in the overall look of your landscaping.

So how do you know which pavers are right for your home? There are a few things to consider:

Are There Different Grades of Pavers?

While all pavers are made of durable materials, different grades are available for different uses. The type of paver you choose will depend on the intended use. For instance, if you’re looking for pavers to withstand harsh weather conditions, you’ll want to select a higher-grade paver. On the other hand, if you’re looking to add aesthetic appeal to your landscaping, a lower-grade paver will suffice.

When choosing pavers, the supplier will likely be able to offer guidance and recommendations. If you know what grade you need, the supplier should have no problem serving you quickly.

At Exscape Designs, we offer a variety of paver grades to choose from. From selecting the best pavers to installing your new patio or pool area, our team is equipped to handle any job. To get started on your next project, contact our experts at Exscape Designs today!

4 Main Types of Paver Materials

Once you decide what grade of pavers you need, the next step is determining what material best suits your needs. Natural stone, brick, concrete and rubber pavers offer different benefits that can make or break your outdoor project.

Here is a brief overview of each type of paver to help you make the best decision for your landscape:

Natural Stone

Natural stone pavers are best for those looking for a long-lasting absorbent surface. Their quality, however, comes with a cost. Alongside their durability, natural stone pavers come in various colors and styles, so you can easily match your landscape.

Some of these styles include:

Flagstone

Flagstone pavers are flat, natural stones that come in various colors, such as gray, blue, red, and tan. They are often used to create a natural look in a landscape by mimicking the look of a stone path. Flagstone pavers are durable and slip-resistant, making them a good choice for areas with a lot of foot traffic. Flagstone pavers are also known for their easy installation and low maintenance.

Cobblestones

Cobblestone pavers are made from natural stone that has been cut into a variety of shapes and sizes. In addition to their rustic look, cobblestone pavers are functional for areas with a lot of foot traffic. Despite their durability and ease of maintenance, cobblestone pavers resist scratching and stains.

Veneer Stone

Veneer pavers are thin slices of natural stone that are glued to a backing material. Veneer pavers are available in various stone types, including flagstone, slate, and marble. They are less expensive than solid stone pavers and are easier to install. However, they are not as durable as solid stone pavers and can chip or crack. This is especially true if they are subjected to heavy traffic or severe weather conditions.

Cut Stone

Cut stone is available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Stone that has been cut into uniform shapes and sizes is easier to install than irregularly shaped stone. Cut stone is also more expensive than irregularly shaped stone because it is less likely to crack or chip. Cut stone is available in various colors, including shades of white, gray, black and red. Due to its uniformity, the cut stone is often used to create patterns or designs in paving projects.

Brick Pavers

Brick pavers are made from clay or concrete and are available in various colors and sizes. They are easy to install and maintain and can last for years with proper care. Brick pavers are often used to create patterns or designs in paving projects. 

Due to their size and shape, however, brick pavers are commonly used in areas with water drainage problems. While most brick pavers keep their vibrant colors for many years, some types may fade over time. Sealants, however, can be applied to help preserve the color of brick pavers.

Some brick paver styles include:

Basketweave

The basketweave pattern is created by rectangular pavers that are laid in a crisscross pattern. This pattern is often used for driveways, patios and other areas where foot traffic is expected. Basketweave patterns are also popular for pool decks since they provide good traction and prevent slipping. 

Typically, basketweave patterns are created by laying pavers in pairs so that they intersect in the center. While this is more labor intensive, it creates a more polished and unique look when finished.

Circular

Circular brick patterns are one of the most popular patterns for paving projects. They are created by laying pavers in a circular or spiral pattern. This pattern is often used for walkways, seating areas and other areas where a lot of foot traffic is expected. Circular designs are also popular for highlighting features in your landscape, such as fountains or sculptures.

Herringbone

Herringbone brick patterns are created by laying pavers in a zig-zag pattern. This pattern is often used for driveways and walkways because it is durable and can handle a lot of foot traffic. Herringbone patterns are also popular for accenting other features in your landscape, such as gardens or pools. Like basketweave patterns, herringbone patterns are more difficult to install than other patterns. The outcome, however, is definitely worth the extra effort.

Stacked

Stacked brick patterns are the most common brick pattern due to their simplicity. This pattern is created by stacking bricks on top of each other in a straight line. In addition to driveways and walkways, stacked brick patterns make excellent landscaping elements. Stacked brick patterns are also used for accenting features such as gardens or pools and creating landscape borders.

Concrete Pavers

Concrete pavers are popular for paving driveways, patios, walkways and other areas. It is composed of cement, natural aggregates (such as sand or gravel) and water. The concrete is then cast in molds and cured to create various shapes, sizes, colors, and textures. In fact, their durability and easy maintenance makes them a great choice for any home.

However, these pavers must be sealed to protect their surface from staining and weathering.

Some concrete paver styles include:

Interlocking Pavers 

Interlocking pavers are the most popular type of concrete paver. They are made of interlocking pieces that fit together like a puzzle, making them easy to install and repair. Interlocking pavers are great for paving driveways, patios, walkways and other areas subject to high traffic. They are also an excellent material for pool decks and patios because they are slip-resistant and comfortable on bare feet.

Architectural Concrete Pavers

Architectural concrete pavers are a type of interlocking paver made with high-quality concrete. They are often used in high-end residential and commercial applications where an elegant look is desired. Because architectural concrete pavers are so dense, they are extremely durable and resistant to staining and cracking. They also make an excellent choice for pool decks, patios, and other areas subject to high traffic.

Rubber Pavers

Rubber pavers are made from recycled rubber and are a popular choice for eco-conscious homeowners. They are extremely durable and slip-resistant, making them a good choice for areas with a lot of foot traffic. Rubber pavers are also easy to maintain and can be used in a variety of settings, both indoors and out.

Rubber pavers are great for pools and patios because they provide a softer surface than concrete or stone. This can be more comfortable for bare feet and help reduce noise levels. Additionally, rubber pavers come in various colors and styles, so you can find an option that best suits your needs.

At Exscape Designs, we are experienced in bringing outdoor visions to life. Backed by functionality and style, we work with our clients to create outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and practical. We care about your outdoor space, and strive to create an outdoor space you will love for years to come. To learn more about how we can help you create the perfect landscape for your home today, contact our experts.