
You have finally decided to spruce up the outdoor spaces around your home. You have heard and seen a lot about different options for flooring or paving your outdoor space. Perhaps you have heard about or seen concrete pavers and are wondering how concrete pavers might fit into your design. There is so much information and so many options out there. How do you decide which concrete paver is the right one for your project?
The good news – You’ve come to the right place.
Choosing the right types of pavers or paving solu tion for your project is one of the critical first steps in creating a beautiful and durable outdoor space.
At Rochester Concrete Products, we want to make the paver selection process easier for you., We have created this comprehensive guide to assist homeowners and property owners in making decisions about various paver and paving options.
In this guide, we will walk you step by step through the process of selecting the right paver for your project.
Whether you are taking on a small patio, pool deck or walkway or designing for a large-scale commercial project, this guide will provide valuable insights to help you select the best pavers for your specific needs.
Comparing Your Paving Options
Before we get into specifics about selecting concrete pavers, it is important to understand the options you have for paving your outdoor space. The following sections describe the benefits and potential drawback of various paving and paver options. Ultimately the decision you make will come down to a variety of factors that help you select the perfect material for your paver project.

Concrete Slab
A poured concrete slab or stamped concrete slab can be a cost-effective choice for your project.
Poured solutions tend to be cheaper and less complex to install than other solutions —especially over extremely large areas. Poured concrete solutions also offer a strong surface that can stand up to almost any application.
However, poured concrete solutions also have notable limitations that are important to consider.
Surface Runoff: Solid concrete surfaces don’t allow water to permeate, potentially leading to surface runoff issues that may require additional drainage solutions.
Cracking Over Time: Concrete slabs are prone to cracking due to weather changes, especially in areas with freeze-thaw cycles. Tree roots can also pose a significant risk of cracking for a poured concrete slab. Repairing these cracks can be challenging and may affect the aesthetic appeal.
Limited Design Options: Although finishes and colors can vary, the uniformity of a concrete slab limits its design versatility compared to pavers.
Fading over time: Even if you elect to stamp your concrete and have pigment applied, that pigment washes off and fades significantly over time.
Difficult to Repair or Modify: Repairing or making changes to a concrete slab layout (e.g., for new landscaping features or repairs) can be difficult and may require cutting or breaking the concrete, leading to potential aesthetic and structural issues.

Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tile specifically designed for outdoor applications has become an increasingly popular option in recent years.
Porcelain features an incredibly hard and dense surface, allowing it to stand up to heavy use and stains without showing wear over time. It can take the impact of heavy furniture and works well in areas where spills and stains may occur. Porcelain also offers a host of design and style options with vibrant colors and bold patterns that may not be available in other solutions. Significantly, porcelain’s colors will also not fade over time like many of the other paver solutions discussed here.
However, Porcelain is also not without its drawbacks.
- Cost: Porcelain can be significantly more expensive on a per-square-foot basis versus comparable paving products.
- Complex Installation Process: On top of the material costs, porcelain is relatively complex to install compared to other options. For this reason, many contractors simply refuse to install porcelain, and those who are willing typically charge a significant premium for each square foot installed compared to other product options. Improper installation also leaves porcelain vulnerable to chipping, cracking, and freeze-thaw cycles.
- Repair and Replacement: Even though they are individual tiles, replacing a porcelain tile can require a significant investment of time. Because many porcelain tiles are laid on a thin set of mortar, removing them is not as easy as simply pulling the damaged piece of tile and laying down a new one.
- Sensitive to Weight Loads: While porcelain has an extremely strong and durable surface, if installed improperly, it can be at risk of bowing or cracking as weight sits on the surface.
- Risk of Chipping: In climates where snow and ice may accumulate on the pavers, Porcelain tiles are difficult to shovel without damaging or chipping tile edges. If you are going to need to shovel your outdoor space, porcelain may not be the best option.
- Slippery: While many outdoor tiles are rated as slip-resistant, not all exterior porcelain tiles are safe for all applications, making them a riskier material for paving outside than concrete pavers. When installing porcelain around surfaces that will be continually exposed to moisture, it is important to consider how slippery the tile may be on a day-to-day basis. The slip resistance of a tile is measured against a standard called the Dynamic Coefficient of Friction (DCOF). You should look for tiles that meet or exceed a DCOF of .6.

GeoCeramica Pavers
GeoCeramica is one of the leaders in the world of porcelain pavers, offering a wide range of high-quality and durable options for outdoor spaces.
GeoCeramica is a new product to the North American Market. It features the benefits of a porcelain tile surface described above, however, the tile is fused to a concrete paver base, making installation much less complex and costs lower. You get the benefit of a porcelain surface while saving money on installation.
These pavers are known for their exceptional strength, resistance to cracking, and low maintenance requirements. GeoCeramica also offers a wide range of colors, textures, and sizes, allowing homeowners to create a unique and personalized outdoor living area.

Natural Stone Pavers
Natural stone can add stylish beauty and a sophisticated aesthetic to your outdoor project. Natural Stone comes with subtle veining and coloration that is difficult for other paver products to replicate. And Mother Nature makes products that last like no one else. Natural stone can be one of the most durable of all paving options.
Natural stones are a traditional choice for pavers, and the category includes such popular materials as marble, limestone, granite, and travertine.
While natural stone pavers can offer some unique advantages, there are also several things to consider before choosing a natural stone option.
- Cost: One of the most significant drawbacks of natural stone pavers is their cost. Both the material itself and the installation tend to be more expensive than other options like concrete pavers or bricks. The complexity of the desired design can also increase labor costs. Many designs will require paving stones to be “cut” to create the desired design or pattern. Cutting natural stone in a way that preserves its natural appearance is a time-consuming process.
- Maintenance: Some types of natural stones require regular maintenance to preserve their appearance and ensure their durability. This can include sealing to prevent stains and damage from water absorption, especially for more porous stones like sandstone and limestone.
- Irregularities and Installation Challenges: Natural stone can vary in thickness and size, making installation more challenging and time-consuming than uniform manufactured materials. This might require a skilled installer for a proper and aesthetically pleasing setup. Concrete pavers, on the other hand, are all manufactured to specific dimensions that won’t vary from paver to paver.
- Weight: Stone is heavy and sometimes awkward to handle which can complicate the transportation and installation process. The underlying structure and base need to be appropriately prepared to support its weight, adding to the overall project cost.
- Susceptibility to Weathering and Damage: While generally durable, certain types of stone can be susceptible to weathering, especially in freeze-thaw climates. Porous stones may crack or split over time if not correctly sealed or maintained.
- Comfort: Stone can be hard underfoot and may become very hot or cold, depending on the weather. This might not be ideal for all uses, such as patio pavers and areas where people are likely to be barefoot, like around a pool.

Brick
Clay brick pavers are a classic paver product that offer timeless beauty that appeals to homeowners who are looking for a more traditional aesthetic. Clay brick pavers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. They are relatively easy to maintain and can be repaired individually if damaged.
While clay brick pavers offer many advantages, there are also several points that homeowners should be aware of when selecting this material vs other paving options such as concrete pavers.
- Cost: Brick or clay pavers are generally more expensive than concrete pavers, making them a less budget-friendly option.
- Maintenance: While they can be replaced individually, the material itself needs more frequent maintenance than concrete pavers, such as sealing and occasional replacements due to heightened sensitivity of clay bricks to wear and tear. Clay bricks can also be more susceptible to cracking versus other paver products.
- Color Options: Brick pavers, are limited to natural, earthy tones.
- Installation: Brick pavers can be more challenging to install due to their potentially irregular shapes and sizes, leading to higher installation costs compared to concrete pavers.
- Staining: Brick pavers are relatively porous and prone to staining from oil or other substances, which can be difficult to remove and may impact the overall appearance of the surface over time. Homeowners should keep this in mind when selecting clay brick pavers for specific applications.

Interlocking Concrete Pavers
Interlocking concrete pavers are designed to fit tightly together, forming a unified surface that distributes loads across multiple units. When installed on a compacted aggregate base with sand-filled joints, the pavers lock together through friction and edge restraint, creating a flexible yet durable pavement system. This interlock allows the surface to withstand heavy loads, resist cracking, and adapt to minor ground movement
Concrete pavers are among the most popular materials for any driveway, walkway, poolside, or patio project for several reasons, from their design flexibility and wide range of design options to their durability and low maintenance. Concrete pavers are an excellent balance between the functionality of concrete and the style of stone.

Concrete pavers are among the most popular paver options for several key reasons.
- Durability and Strength
- Weather Resistance: Concrete pavers are manufactured to withstand harsh weather conditions, including freeze-thaw cycles, without cracking as easily as poured concrete slabs.
- Load Bearing: They are designed to be incredibly strong and capable of handling heavy foot traffic and vehicular loads, making them an excellent choice as driveway, walkway, and patio pavers.
- Ease of Maintenance and Repair
- Minimal Maintenance: Concrete pavers require minimal upkeep. Regular sweeping and occasional rinsing with a garden hose are usually sufficient to keep them looking good.
- Easy Repairs: If a paver becomes stained or damaged, it can be easily removed and replaced without affecting the surrounding area. This spot repair is not possible with poured concrete slabs or large porcelain tiles, where damage usually requires more extensive repairs.
- Cost-Effectiveness
- Affordable Installation: While the initial cost may vary, concrete pavers are generally more cost-effective in the long run compared to options like natural stone and porcelain due to lower material and installation costs.
- Long-Term Value: Given their durability and low maintenance requirements, concrete pavers offer excellent long-term value. Their ability to withstand the elements and heavy use means they can last for decades with proper care, without the need for costly repairs or replacements.
- Eco-Friendly Options
- Permeable Pavers: Concrete pavers are available in permeable options, which allow water to percolate through the surface and into the ground below, reducing runoff and promoting natural water filtration. This eco-friendly feature is not typically available with poured concrete slabs or porcelain tiles.
- Safety Features
- Slip Resistance: Many concrete pavers have textured surfaces that provide better slip resistance than polished porcelain tiles or certain types of natural stone. This makes them a safer option for areas prone to wet conditions, like pool surrounds and walkways.
- Installation and Adaptability
- Ease of Installation: Concrete pavers can be installed over various types of bases and don’t require the concrete slab foundation that porcelain tiles might need, making them adaptable to different settings.
- Adjustable: Changes to outdoor areas, like the addition of features or changes in landscaping, can be more easily accommodated by lifting and repositioning pavers.
While concrete pavers have many advantages, the best choice for a paving material will depend on the specific needs of the project, including intended usage, budget, desired aesthetic, and maintenance preferences.

What are the Types of Concrete Pavers
Concrete pavers can be categorized according to several different attributes, including function, shape & size, surface finish, and the structural relationship each paver has to other pavers in the project.
Structurally, concrete pavers fit into one of three categories.:
- Architectural Concrete Pavers: These larger, flatter pavers, also called Architectural Slabs, are known for their versatility in design. These pavers are laid independently and are not designed to work with adjacent pavers to respond to shifting ground based on freeze/thaw cycles. These are typically only used in large commercial applications.
- Interlocking Concrete Pavers: Traditionally thicker than architectural pavers, these pavers provide enhanced strength and ease of installation and are great for high-traffic areas. Interlocking concrete pavers are designed to fit tightly together, forming a unified surface that distributes loads across multiple units
- Permeable Pavers: A subcategory of interlocking pavers, these pavers feature wider joints between individual pavers and offer eco-friendly solutions for managing stormwater runoff and supporting drainage. This makes permeable pavers ideal for areas that experience heavy traffic or where water drainage is important, such as parking lots.
For most of your traditional backyard projects, you will want to use interlocking concrete pavers, for example, as they offer the greatest combination of design options and durability
One of the most significant advancements in recent years has to do with the surface finish of concrete pavers. Pavers are made using one of two coloration techniques.
- Thru-Mix Pavers: Are manufactured using a process where the color is blended into the concrete and cement mixture of the entire paver. Color is evenly distributed throughout. However, the surface of thru mix pavers are significantly less vibrant and distinctive vs face mix pavers. Thru mix pavers will also fade significantly over time.
- Face Mix Pavers: Face mix pavers refer to pavers that are manufactured with a thin veneer of hyper saturated color that is applied during the final stage of the manufacturing process. Face mix pavers offer homeowners a vibrant and consistent coloration that looks noticeably more “high-end” than thru-mix pavers.

Identifying the Purpose of the Project
Understanding the intended use of your outdoor space is a crucial step when choosing the perfect paver.
Whether it’s for a driveway, patio, pool deck, outdoor kitchen, or walkway, several factors come into play.
What is the Intended Use of the Space
Consider the primary purpose of the space. Is it for a patio, driveway, walkway, or pool deck? The function can dictate the best type of paver to use. Key questions to ask yourself when assessing which paver may be the right choice for you
- What weight loads will be placed on the pavers? If you are using the pavers in a place where vehicular traffic will be present ensure you select a paver product rated for use with vehicle traffic. Traditionally these will be products that are slightly smaller in size as they are better able to spread the weight of the vehicle across adjacent pavers vs large individual units.
- Am I concerned about slipping? If yes, make sure you select a paver with a surface designed to provide greater traction in the presence of moisture
- What type of furniture, accessories, and plantings will be on or around the space? Is it a simple patio with lounge chairs or is it an outdoor kitchen space? Make sure the paver you select can hold up to sliding furniture or grills and avoid or remove stains from potential falling leaves or berries.
- Will I need to plow or salt the area? Be sure to choose pavers with edges that the edge of a plow or shovel will not potentially chip. Some pavers come with protectants applied during the manufacturing process that protect the paver from the effects of salt and other chemicals. Chroma Shield from Rochester Concrete Products is an example of one such technology.
Consider the Load-Bearing Capacity
- Strength Requirements: For driveways or areas expecting vehicular traffic, choose pavers with high compressive strength and those that are specifically rated for vehicular traffic to avoid cracking under pressure. Manufacturers typically specify the load-bearing capacity of their pavers, so look for those that meet or exceed your needs.
- Traffic Type: Determine the type of traffic the pavers will need to withstand. Is the area going to be used for pedestrian traffic, vehicular traffic, or heavy-load applications? Different pavers are designed to handle different levels of stress.
Understand Maintenance Requirements
Evaluate how much maintenance you’re willing to perform. While concrete pavers generally require low maintenance, certain finishes may require more care than others. Sealing pavers can enhance color and protect against stains, but the sealant will need to be reapplied periodically.
Consider Sunlight and Heat
Choosing the right paver colors requires careful consideration of sunlight and heat exposure. The color of your pavers can greatly impact the temperature of your outdoor space, so it’s important to choose wisely.
- Lighter colors tend to reflect sunlight and heat, keeping the pavers and the surrounding area cooler. This is especially beneficial in warmer climates or areas with high sun exposure.
- Darker colors, on the other hand, absorb heat and can make the surface uncomfortably hot to walk on. However, darker colors can also create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making them a popular choice for outdoor entertainment areas in colder or temperate climates.
- Fading: The amount of sun or shade covering the area may influence your choice of paver. A paver such as GeoCermaica Porcelain Pavers can hold up to relentless sun without fading. Additionally, some concrete paver products are manufactured with fade-resistant technologies that protect the color of the pavers. While this protection will not prevent all fading, it will greatly diminish the rate.
Ultimately, it’s essential to strike a balance between aesthetics and functionality when selecting paver colors, ensuring that your outdoor space remains comfortable and enjoyable even in the harshest sunlight and heat conditions.
When in doubt, consult with a landscape architect or contractor who can provide professional advice based on the specifics of your project. They can offer insights into the best materials and installation methods for your needs.
By carefully considering these factors, you can evaluate whether a concrete paver is suitable for your intended use, ensuring that the finished space is both beautiful and functional for years to come.

What Goes Into The Total Price of Paver Installation
How much will installing that beautiful new concrete paver patio or outdoor kitchen area cost you?
Concrete pavers are often the solution that best balances the ability to achieve unique and stylish designs while being relatively cost-efficient. However, even within concrete pavers, there are a wide variety of price points available. These cost differences are driven by both the cost of the pavers and the installation requirements associated with a particular project.
The cost will vary depending on the following factors:
Type and Quality of Pavers
- Material Costs: Higher-end pavers with unique colors, textures, or shapes generally cost more. The quality and durability of the material also affect the price, with premium pavers being more expensive due to their longevity and aesthetic appeal.
- Protection: Some paver lines come with pre-applied protectants that protect from fading, salt, and chemicals, and even some level of stain resistance. These pavers will look significantly better and require less maintenance over the years; however, they also come at a higher cost.
- Warranty: Manufacturers’ warranties on pavers can vary widely and contain a variety of terms and conditions. While not the primary reason for prices being higher on a single line of pavers, this may explain the difference in cost between similar pavers from two different manufacturers. Make sure you ask for the details on the warranty associated with the pavers.
Installation Costs
The other main cost of pavers is the cost of installation. The complexity and cost of installing concrete pavers can vary widely depending on several factors. Understanding these elements can help explain why one installation might be more expensive than another.
- Size of the Area: The larger the area to be covered, the more materials and labor will be required, driving up the overall cost. Additionally, larger areas might need more extensive ground preparation.
- Site Preparation: The cost can significantly increase based on the condition of the site. Removing existing surfaces, leveling the ground, adding a suitable base or sub-base, and ensuring proper drainage are all preparatory steps that can be labor-intensive and costly.
- Base Material and Sub-base: The type of base material (e.g., crushed stone, sand) and its depth can influence the price. A deeper, more substantial base is necessary for areas with heavy traffic or poor soil conditions, which can increase costs. The quality of the base and how it impacts the final look and longevity of a project cannot be overstated. Make sure you understand that if a contractor is offering you a lower price by cutting corners on the base savings, it will likely not be worth it in the end.
- Design Complexity, Pattern, and Layout: Intricate designs or patterns require more time and skill to install, increasing labor costs. Custom designs or the use of multiple colors and shapes to create a specific look can also add to the expense. If it is necessary to make custom cuts for unique edges or specific inlays, the cost of the project will increase substantially.
- Labor Costs: The cost of labor varies by region and the skill level of the installation team. Experienced professionals might charge more, but their expertise can ensure a longer-lasting, higher-quality, proper installation.
- Accessibility to Site: Difficult access to the project site can increase installation costs. Limited access may require additional labor to transport materials manually or the rental of specialized equipment to move materials. If your backyard is inaccessible and contractors need to move all materials manually from the front of your house, the costs can increase quickly.
- Permits and Regulations: In some areas, permits may be required for paving projects. Adhering to local building codes and regulations can also necessitate specific installation practices that may increase costs.
- Drainage: Addressing drainage issues or installing drainage systems to prevent water pooling and ensure the longevity of the pavers can add to the project’s cost. A quality installer will explain the drainage and water management solution necessary to ensure your project looks as good on day one thousand as it does on day one.
- Post-Installation Services: Costs may also include post-installation services such as sealing the pavers or the provision of a warranty on the installation work. Make sure you understand what is included in each bid when comparing one installer to another
Long-Term Costs:
Finally, consider not just the cost of your project but also the costs associated with maintenance and repairs if needed.
- Soil and Climate Conditions: Make sure you select pavers that can withstand your local extreme weather conditions and are appropriate for your local soil conditions. Freeze-thaw cycles and sandy soils vs. clay all can impact whether a certain paver approach will work over the long term. Make sure to consult a local contractor with expertise in installation in your local area.
- Maintenance Requirements: Some pavers require annual or bi-annual application of sealers to prevent many common issues, such as staining or fading, that may impact the appearance and performance of your pavers. Consider pavers with built-in resistance to fading and chipping and those that are easy to clean and maintain. Several manufacturers offer products with these applications, although some only offer them on their most expensive pavers.

Deciding on The Design of Your Paver Project
Now, it is time to create your own unique design for your outdoor living space. As mentioned above, the pattern and design choices you make will impact the cost, installation time, and even the entire look of your property’s exterior.
Your design preference, from color to texture and shape, should align with your project’s application and the area size. Ensure the pavers complement your home’s architecture, considering factors like existing styles and materials. Pattern choices like herringbone or running bond can significantly impact the visual appeal and functionality of your space. Many times it is best to consult a professional designer who can suggest patterns and layouts that match your specific goals.
Below, we discuss these and other important design considerations in more detail.
Selecting Pavers
- Color: Choose colors that complement your home’s exterior and landscape. Consider how the color will look in different lighting conditions. Evaluating how a product looks at midday is very different from how it may look at dusk when you are on your patio having a drink. Many contractors and designers can offer you samples of different products and allow you to lay them down in the space to evaluate how each may look at different times of the day. Also, consider the other elements in the landscape that may alter the lighting conditions, such as trees or other structures in the hardscape.
Another key factor to remember relative to color is how the pavers absorb heat. In a large area exposed to intense afternoon sun, a lighter color paver may be a better selection than a dark-colored paver.
- Size and Shape: The size and shape of the pavers can influence the perception of space. Larger pavers can make a small area appear bigger, while smaller pavers are often used for more intricate patterns.
Over a large area, smaller pavers with intricate patterns can appear busy and take a long time to install, versus pavers that are larger and occupy more square feet for each individual unit.
The size and shape of the pavers can also work to enhance or detract from a particular design style you are looking to achieve. Historic, rustic projects may opt for smaller-sized pavers with rough, uneven edges.
Modern, more linear designs may benefit from square or rectangular pavers that are larger in size and have crisp, clean edges. Many people looking to create modern looks in their backyard hardscapes use pavers that are more uniform in size.
If you have questions about how to create a design that meets your personal style, you should consult a landscape designer.
- Texture: Many pavers have the option to purchase both a smooth top version and a version with a textured top.
Textured pavers provide slip resistance and add visual interest. They tend to mimic the look of the natural beauty of stone, offering a more timeless appeal. As such, they work well in designs where natural stone and other natural elements may be used. Textured pavers also work well in situations where surface moisture and slipping may be a concern. Textured pavers can offer greater slip resistance in some situations.
Smooth pavers, on the other hand, can offer a cleaner and more modern aesthetic.
While concrete pavers are naturally less slick than some other paving options, smooth surface pavers can become slippery when exposed to routine surface moisture.

Patterns and Design
- Pattern Choice: Popular patterns include herringbone, basket weave, and running bond. The pattern should complement the style of your home and landscape. Designs looking for a more modern look will be laid in simpler, more linear patterns, while designs looking for a traditional feel may use more intricate and traditional patterns such as herringbone.
- Laying Direction & Pattern: Consider the orientation of the pavers. Laying them in a certain direction can lead to visual expansion or contraction of the space.
- Border and Inlay Detail: Adding a border in a contrasting color or pattern can define the area and add a polished look. Similarly, creating patterns with inlays at certain spots of the project can create a uniquely personal feel and enhance adherence to a certain design style. For example, a random dark inlay or dark border around light-colored, uniform pavers creates a very interesting modern design. In contrast, an intricate inlay of a circle or compass can enhance the historical and traditional feel of a space.
Edge Detail
Decide whether your design will feature curves, straight lines, or a combination of both. This can affect both the aesthetic of your space and the complexity of the installation.
Integration with Other Hardscaping
This consideration is essential after you’ve decided on color, texture, size, and pattern. What if a particular paver doesn’t fit with the architectural style of the rest of your property? Always put your entire paver project in the context of the rest of the property, no matter what your personal preferences are regarding individual pavers:
- Retaining Walls: If your project includes retaining walls, select materials that complement or match the pavers for a cohesive look. Most contractors work with manufacturers who offer both retaining walls and paver products. Your contractor will be familiar with and can likely provide pictures of how certain retaining walls and pavers may work together.
- Steps and Levels: Often, designers like to create different levels of spaces in their designs. Oftentimes, each area may make use of different pavers. Steps are often the transitions between these spaces and can either make a unique statement on their own or simply blend into the background. Consider the transition between different levels as a separate design space.
- Lighting: We discussed earlier the role natural lighting can play in how a particular paver looks in the project. However, many of these spaces are used more often at night than during the day. It is important to consider what auxiliary lighting will be integrated into the project as well. Plan for lighting in your hardscape design. Integrated lighting can highlight architectural features and ensure safety at night.

Rochester Concrete Products Offers Paver Variety And Helps You Decide
We hope we helped make your decision to select concrete pavers easier. We also hope this guide helped you understand what factors to consider when selecting the perfect pavers for your project.
Selecting the right pavers involves considering the project’s purpose, comparing materials, understanding design implications, and evaluating durability, safety, environmental impact, and cost. With thoughtful consideration of these factors, you can make an informed decision, ensuring a beautiful, functional, and long-lasting outdoor space.
You’re ready to tackle that paver project as an informed customer, and we’ll be waiting over at Rochester Concrete Products, ready for any estimate you need. We have a wide variety of quality, durable, and versatile concrete and porcelain pavers including slabs and tiles that meet and exceed industry standards if your creativity demands it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Pavers Be Installed Over an Existing Concrete Surface?
Yes, pavers can be installed over an existing concrete base. This is a cost-effective and time-saving option that can update the appearance and functionality of outdoor spaces without the need for complete removal and replacement of the concrete. Be aware, though, that placing pavers over an already existing concrete base can result in a higher surface level for your driveway, patio, walkway, or outdoor kitchen than what you were used to and might have to compensate the rest of the property for it. It is also important to note that the drainage and site requirements on individual projects may require additional site prep vs simply laying pavers on the slab.
How Do I Prevent Weeds and Grass From Growing Between Pavers?
To prevent weeds and grass from growing between pavers, it is important to properly prepare the base before installation, use a weed barrier fabric, and fill the joints with polymeric sand or a jointing compound. Regular maintenance and weed control are also necessary.
Are There Any Eco-Friendly Options for Pavers?
Yes, there are eco-friendly options for pavers. Some examples include permeable pavers, which allow water to infiltrate the ground, reducing runoff, and recycled pavers made from materials such as rubber or plastic.