Solid concrete and asphalt pavements, walkways and driveways are being phased out as homeowners turn to pavers for their projects. Pavers offer flexibility when it comes to style and aesthetics, making them a suitable choice for your home. However, finding the right ones for the job can be an uphill task. Thus, as you shop around, here are four tips to help you find the right pavers for your project.
Find the right paver material
The various paver materials on the market include brick, concrete, bluestone, cobblestone, marble and plastic pavers. The best choice depends on your project. For example, concrete and cobblestone pavers have incredible strength and durability. They do well in high-traffic areas, and this makes them suitable for a residential driveway or pathway. Brick is a durable and visually appealing material, but it requires frequent maintenance to preserve its lustre.
Bluestone has a unique blue colour that makes it a great material for outdoor paving. However, it is costly; therefore, it is best used for decorative purposes. If you want a durable and cheap material, plastic pavers would be an excellent choice. A paving expert can walk you through these and other materials and help you choose the best one depending on your project.
Examine various samples
Before buying pavers in bulk, ask your supplier for samples of the various materials. Getting samples allows you to assess the suitability of the pavers for your project. Wet the blocks and notice any colour changes. Some materials experience drastic colour changes when wet, and the last thing you want is to find this out after the installation. Also, check how susceptible each material is to blemishes. If possible, choose materials that can easily disguise oil stains and marks, especially when installing a driveway.
Choose an ideal thickness
The ideal paver thickness depends on where you intend to lay the material. For garden pavements and paths, you can go with the standard paver thickness, as this can withstand a human's weight. However, when installing pavers on a driveway or an area that experiences vehicle traffic, you need a thicker material. Thin pavers may wear out quickly due to the pressure exerted by heavy vehicles and machinery.
Decide between smooth and textured pavers
The choice between smooth and textured pavers depends on the intended use and maintenance expectations. Smooth pavers require regular cleaning and sealing. If left for a long time, spills can stain the material and ruin kerb appeal. Thus, smooth pavers are suitable for areas such as the patio or swimming pool. For your driveway and pavements, go for textured pavers. These are low-maintenance and do an excellent job of hiding stains. Also, textured pavers have a rough surface that prevents slip-and-fall accidents during the wet season.
Consider these tips when shopping for pavers for your residential project!