Patios are a great way to expand your outdoor living space and create a comfortable place to relax and entertain. When designing your patio, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the right type of pavers. Pavers for patio installations are precast blocks laid across the ground side by side that are used to create the patio surface, and they come in a variety of materials. Each option of patio paver material has its own unique benefits and drawbacks based on preferences, environment, and cost. Being able to make an informed decision about the types of pavers for patio creation allows you to create an outdoor living space you’ll be happy with for years to come.

How Are Patio Pavers Installed?

Building a patio will vary a bit based on the material used, but the general process remains the same. The ground must first be excavated, removing grass and dirt so that the space can be leveled to provide a secure stage for the pavers to be laid. There may be additional projects added onto the patio to ensure proper drainage is in place as well. Base material will be poured throughout the carved-out patio footprint, and the paver sand will then need to be leveled. This is key to preventing pavers from sinking in the future, which requires redoing sections of the patio. Once the base is set, pavers are often laid in geometric patterns such as herringbone, jack-on-jack, or running bond. The pattern will usually begin in a corner space and work outward, with experts checking each piece so that it is level and snug to the adjoining ones. After they’re all in place, polymeric sand is used to fill the space between them and will cure in about a day. The total time required to install a paver patio is usually a couple days, but this can vary based on how big it is, any additional projects needed to level ground or create better drainage, and the type of material used.

What Are the Different Types of Patio Pavers?

Brick pavers are a popular choice for patios due to their classic, timeless look. Traditionally, these are made from clay and come in a range of colors, from traditional reds to more modern grays and browns. Brick pavers are also durable and can withstand heavy traffic of both the foot and vehicle type, and they hold up well under harsh weather conditions. However, they can be more expensive than other types of pavers and may require more maintenance, such as regular sealing and weed removal. If you have poor land drainage, shifting soil underneath can lead to cracking or settling. Permeable pavers can be laid with gaps between the bricks that allow water to drain, but you may need to combine this with other landscape drainage approaches such as land grading.

Concrete pavers are a versatile option that can mimic the look of other materials, such as natural stone or brick. They are available in a wide range of colors and shapes, making it easy to create a customized look for your patio. Concrete pavers are also low-maintenance and durable, making them a great choice for high-traffic areas. However, they can be prone to cracking over time, especially if they are not installed properly. Sealing may be necessary to preserve the color of the concrete pavers and will need to be reapplied over the years. Just as with brick, drainage should be considered as part of the installation process to prevent long-term disruption of the patio from excess water.

Flagstone or natural pavers include materials like slate, bluestone, sandstone, or limestone and offer a unique, rustic look for your patio. They come in a range of colors and textures, from smooth to rough, and can create a natural, organic feel in your outdoor space. This option is also durable and long-lasting, but it can be more expensive than other types of pavers. Often, natural stone is used for patios that adjoin pools due to its absorbent nature and natural anti-slip texture. Installation of natural stone pavers can be complicated due to the variable sizes and shapes, as well as their simultaneous fragile yet heavy makeup. To create a secure base, a concrete base is usually necessary, and leveling is key. These pavers may also require more maintenance, such as regular sealing and cleaning to prevent staining and discoloration. Natural stone is one of the most expensive patio paver options, though this will vary based on the kind of natural stone, including whether that type of stone is quarried locally. Hiring patio contractors is a great way to ensure correct installation and a long-lasting surface that is both safe and attractive.

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Choosing the Right Pavers for Your Patio

When choosing the best pavers for patio projects, there are several factors to consider. Budget is often the primary concern for most homeowners. Pavers can vary in price, so it’s important to choose a material that fits your budget. Keep in mind that more expensive materials may offer greater durability and longevity. Another consideration is the style, as the design of the patio should reflect your personal taste and complement the aesthetic of your home. The color, texture, and pattern of laying out the pavers should tie into the design of your existing landscape. Another point to weigh is durability, as your environment may dictate what kind of material will best hold up to the common weather patterns you experience. If you have high levels of foot traffic, that should be accounted for too. The level of maintenance may also help guide the final decision. The pavers requiring frequent care such as sealing are a fine option for someone with the time, energy, and interest in doing that work, but if you’re busy—or just don’t like yard work—consider going with a less needy material.

If you’re in the Nashville area and are looking for patio contractors near you, you’re in the right place! We understand that choosing the right material can be daunting. There is a lot to consider, and you may not even know where to begin. Greenway of Nashville has experience installing patios of all kinds, and we are happy to provide expert advice to help you make the best decision for your outdoor space. As part of our planning process, we’ll help you weigh the pros and cons, provide pricing differences, and answer your questions so that you feel confident in your choice. We’ll also handle the entire installation process for you, from planning and ordering materials to moving your furniture onto the final product. This includes following Tennessee legal requirements around notifying the state of intention to excavate, which many people don’t realize they are supposed to do! As professionals, we’re here to minimize your work so that you can focus on other things. Our guarantee is your satisfaction and a patio you’ll love. Contact us through our website or by calling us at (615)-238-4574 for a free consultation with our team of professionals.

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