outdoor pavers

Tired of your dull and lifeless outdoor space? Are cracked concrete and boring patios leaving you uninspired?

Don’t settle for a lacklustre outdoor area that fails to reflect your style and personality. Your outdoor space should be an extension of your home, a place to relax, entertain, and enjoy.

Transform your backyard into a stunning oasis with outdoor pavers! These versatile and durable materials offer endless design possibilities, allowing you to create a unique and inviting space that perfectly complements your lifestyle.

What are Outdoor Pavers?

Outdoor pavers are flat construction materials from stone, concrete, or brick. They create durable and visually appealing surfaces for various outdoor areas. Typical applications include patios, walkways, driveways, and pool decks.

These pavers are designed to withstand heavy foot traffic and weather conditions, providing functionality and aesthetic enhancement to outdoor spaces.

They come in various shapes, sizes, colours, and finishes, allowing for versatile design options that complement any landscape or architectural style.

Types of Outdoor Pavers

Outdoor pavers come in multiple types, each offering unique benefits and aesthetic appeal. Here are the types of pavers available at Splendour In Stone:

1. Bluestone

Bluestone pavers are highly durable, weather-resistant, and slip-resistant, making them ideal for high-traffic areas.

Their natural blue-grey hue adds a sophisticated touch to any outdoor space. Bluestone pavers are perfect for patios, walkways, driveways, and pool surrounds, offering both functionality and timeless beauty​.

2. Granite

Granite pavers are known for their exceptional strength and durability. They can withstand heavy loads and extreme weather conditions, making them suitable for driveways, pathways, and commercial spaces. The natural speckled appearance of granite adds a touch of elegance and variety to any outdoor project​.

3. Marble

Marble pavers provide a luxurious and refined look. They are typically used in high-end residential and commercial projects. While marble is more susceptible to weathering than other stones, its unique veining and classic appearance make it a popular choice for decorative elements in outdoor spaces​.

4. Limestone

Limestone pavers offer a softer, more natural look compared to other stones. They are durable and weather-resistant, making them suitable for patios, garden paths, and pool surrounds. Limestone’s subtle colour variations and smooth texture create a calming and elegant outdoor environment.

5. Porphyry

Porphyry pavers are recognised for their natural beauty and durability. They come in various colours and are highly resistant to wear and weather conditions. Porphyry is ideal for driveways, walkways, and public spaces due to its unique texture and slip resistance.

6. Quartziteå

Quartzite pavers are tough and durable, making them suitable for high-traffic areas. They are resistant to stains and weathering, and their natural sparkling appearance adds a distinctive look to outdoor spaces. Quartzite is ideal for patios, pool surrounds, and walkways​.

7. Travertine

Travertine pavers provide a timeless and elegant appearance with their natural stone texture and warm colours. They are perfect for pool decks, patios, and garden paths due to their slip resistance and ability to stay cool underfoot. Travertine’s porous nature also provides good drainage, ideal for wet areas​.

Why Choose Pavers?

• Durability and Longevity: Outdoor pavers are renowned for their exceptional durability and longevity. Pavers are designed to withstand heavy foot traffic, harsh weather conditions, and extreme temperature fluctuations, unlike poured concrete, which is prone to cracking and shifting over time. This resilience ensures that your outdoor space remains beautiful and functional for years.
• Design Flexibility: One of the most significant advantages of pavers is their design flexibility. With vast shapes, sizes, colours, and textures, you can create unique patterns, borders, and accents that perfectly match your aesthetic preferences. Whether you envision a classic herringbone pattern or a more intricate mosaic, pavers allow endless design possibilities.
• Low Maintenance: Pavers are a low-maintenance option for your outdoor space. Routine sweeping and occasional rinsing are required to keep them looking their best. If a paver becomes damaged, it can be easily replaced without affecting the surrounding area, unlike poured concrete, which often requires extensive repairs.
• Permeability: Permeable pavers offer an eco-friendly solution for environmentally conscious homeowners. These innovative pavers allow rainwater to seep through the joints and into the ground, reducing stormwater runoff and minimising the burden on local drainage systems.

Considerations When Choosing Outdoor Pavers

When selecting outdoor pavers for your project, several important factors must be considered to ensure you make the right choice that meets your needs and preferences. Here are some key considerations:

• Climate: The climate in your region plays a crucial role in determining the most suitable paver material. For instance, in areas with harsh winters and freeze-thaw cycles, you’ll need frost-resistant pavers, such as concrete or porcelain. Natural stone or brick pavers may be a better option in warmer climates as they can better withstand heat and UV exposure.
• Intended Use: The intended use of the paved area will influence the type of pavers you choose. High-traffic areas like driveways and patios require durable and slip-resistant pavers, such as interlocking concrete or porcelain. You may opt for more decorative options like natural stone or brick for low-traffic areas like garden paths or patios.
• Budget: Outdoor pavers come in a wide range of prices, with natural stone being the most expensive option and concrete being the most budget-friendly. Determine your budget upfront and consider the long-term costs, including installation and maintenance.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Pavers come in various colours, textures, and patterns, allowing you to create a desired look for your outdoor space. Consider your home’s overall design and architecture and choose pavers that complement the existing style.
• Maintenance Requirements: Some paver materials, like natural stone and brick, may require more maintenance than others, such as porcelain or concrete—factor in the time and effort you dedicate to cleaning and sealing your pavers.

Installation Process for Outdoor Pavers

Installing outdoor pavers is a multi-step process that requires careful planning and execution:

Step 1: Planning and Preparation:

1. Determine the layout and design of your paver project.
2. Calculate the needed materials, including pavers, base materials, and edging.
3. Obtain necessary permits if required.
4. Prepare the area by removing existing grass, debris, and any obstacles.

Step 2: Excavation and Base Preparation:

1. Excavate the area to the desired depth, ensuring proper slope for drainage.
2. Compact the subgrade to create a stable foundation.
3. Install a base material layer, such as crushed gravel or compacted sand.

Step 3: Edging and Paver Placement:

1. Install edging to contain the pavers and prevent shifting.
2. Lay the pavers according to your chosen pattern, starting from a corner or edge.
3. Use a rubber mallet to tap each paver into place gently.
4. Maintain consistent spacing between pavers for joint sand.

Step 4: Cutting and Fitting Pavers:

1. Use a masonry saw or splitter to cut pavers as needed to fit around obstacles or create desired shapes.
2. Take precise measurements to ensure accurate cuts.

Step 5: Compacting and Jointing:

1. Use a plate compactor to level and compact the pavers.
2. Sweep joint sand into the gaps between pavers to lock them in place and prevent weed growth.
3. Repeat the compacting and jointing process until the joints are filled.

Step 6: Final Touches:

1. Clean the paver surface of any excess sand or debris.
2. Seal the pavers (optional) to protect them from stains and enhance their colour.

Maintenance and Care of Outdoor Pavers

Proper maintenance and care can significantly extend the lifespan and beauty of your outdoor pavers:

Regular Cleaning:

• Sweep or blow away debris like leaves, dirt, and sand regularly to prevent staining and buildup.
• Rinse the pavers periodically with a hose to remove dirt and grime. Avoid high-pressure washing, which can damage the pavers and erode joint sand.
• For stubborn stains, use a mild detergent and a soft-bristled brush.

Joint Sand Maintenance:

• Check the joint sand levels annually and replenish them as needed. Joint sand helps stabilise pavers, prevents weed growth, and maintains drainage.
• Use polymeric sand for added durability and stain resistance.

Sealing:

• Sealing is optional but can provide additional protection against stains, fading, and weathering.
• Choose a sealer designed explicitly for your paver type (natural stone, concrete, etc.).
• Apply sealer according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically every 2-3 years.

Additional Tips:

• Avoid using harsh chemicals or de-icing salts on pavers.
• Promptly clean up spills to prevent staining.
• Trim overhanging vegetation to minimise debris and shade, promoting moss and algae growth.

Applications of Outdoor Pavers

Outdoor pavers are incredibly versatile and can be used to transform various areas of your outdoor space:

• Walkways: Enhance the curb appeal of your property and provide safe, accessible pathways with pavers. Consider using different paver styles to create visual interest and define separate areas.
• Driveways: Opt for durable pavers that can withstand the weight of vehicles and heavy traffic. Permeable pavers are an excellent option for driveways, as they help manage stormwater runoff.
• Pool Decks: Surround your pool with slip-resistant pavers that stay cool underfoot and provide a comfortable surface for lounging and entertaining.
• Outdoor Kitchens: Create a stylish and functional outdoor cooking space with pavers. Choose materials that are resistant to heat, stains, and spills.
• Fire Pits and Seating Areas: Using pavers, design cozy gathering spaces around fire pits or fireplaces. Choose pavers that complement the overall aesthetic of your outdoor living area.

What are Outdoor Pavers?

Basically, the first thing a homeowner considers when choosing a paving material is the color of their exteriors. The lighter shades are used to achieve a cohesive look. But you could also opt for bluestone outdoor pavers that are available in cold tones. For perfect outdoor paving, you are going to need to build a strong foundation comprising a layer of compressed gravel as well as compacted sand. Our Natural stone outdoor pavers are available in a multitude of shapes and finishes which can be the best fit for a large outdoor paving area.

With the natural pavers installed on your driveway and exteriors, the curb appeal of your home will improve significantly. Like plants and other accessories, pavers add colors and texture to your exterior space. The paving material must not be selected for their aesthetic only. It is important to consider the utility and resilience of the material before making a purchase. You don’t want to install the pavers that last only a few months. However, stone pavers like travertine outdoor pavers, granite outdoor pavers and sandstone outdoor pavers are just an ideal choice for large paving areas such as swimming pool pavers, patio pavers, driveway pavers and more. To add some extra charm to your outdoor paving area, you can choose to lay crazy pavers which look astonishing upon installation.

Natural Stones for Exterior Paving

 Outdoor paving is a long-term investment. Some natural stones are known for their reliability and hard-wearing properties, while others give your outdoor space a sophisticated and elegant look. You could choose a material based on your lifestyle and requirements. There is a good reason why homeowners choose natural stones over artificial and man-made materials. The stones are available in a wide range of colors and sizes.

Contrary to what people believe, natural stones are not expensive. It is rather the labor and tool cost that makes the paving project costlier than concrete and brick paving. Natural stones have slight variations, which can be noticed in each slab. Even if you order a single type of natural stone for exterior paving, you will spot color and size variation in each stone. This adds a natural touch to your space. However, it also makes the installation process a little challenging. There is no denying that stone paving needs creativity. It is physically demanding and tedious.

Most homeowners hire professional contractors to get the pavers installed on the patio, driveway, deck, and around the swimming pool. It is quite easy to see why laborers charge a high price for stone paving. They need to arrange these stones in a uniform pattern, which gets quite challenging considering the irregularity in the sizes and hues of the material.

Installation Ideas for Outdoor Paving

You can install natural stones on the driveway, balcony, backyard, walkway, deck, patio, steppingstones, façade wall, and around the swimming pool. For driveway and pathway, you need a tough material that can endure foot traffic.

Bluestone and travertine are the best options for pool coping. For the backyard and patio, you could pick the attractive and functional natural stone that can endure changing weather and extreme temperature.

Outdoor pavers| A Complete Guide to Transforming Your Outdoor Space

When it comes to improving the beauty, practicality, and durability of outdoor spaces, outdoor pavers are a game changer. You can transform your old patio, make an inviting garden path, or change your driveway and outdoor pavers will give a perfect solution that’s versatile and enduring. They can be complemented with practical yet aesthetic values, so most favored by homeowners, architects, and landscape designers.

In this comprehensive guide, we will take a look into what outdoor pavers are what are their advantages, and types, and how to install them step by step, this article will bring to you all the information you need to create great outdoor spaces of your own that will last for a long time.

What are outdoor pavers?

Outdoor pavers are flat, durable stones or slabs of concrete intended for outdoor use. They are available in different shapes, sizes, colors, and materials, making it possible for homeowners to customize them according to their unique tastes and needs. Common uses are patios, walkways, driveways, pool decks, and garden pathways.

Pavers are specially engineered to withstand the characteristics of weather and yet remain beautiful. Unlike normal poured concrete, which cracks and becomes unsightly, their interlocking design allows for flexibility and movement without the risk of cracking due to shifting soil or temperature changes. This is why these surfaces are perfect for an outdoor area-beautiful yet durable.

Buy outdoor pavers online

Now you might wonder where you can Buy outdoor pavers online. There are several reliable options to consider

Home Improvement Stores:

Chain outlets such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Menards certainly have many selections for outdoor pavers out of several material types and styles.

Tile and Flooring Specialists:

There are specialized tile stores, such as Floor and Decor or independent local tile retailers, that are excellent online stores to find a wide variety of outdoor pavers. These stores are more specialized and offer more personalized service than the larger home improvement chains.

Online marketplaces:

From Amazon, Wayfair, and Overstock, the best outdoor pavers can be purchased. Visiting the site for shopping allows you to compare many of these floor coverings from the comfort of your house. Often, you find what is being sought at competitive prices or discounts. You can also read online reviews to understand the nature and quality of the product.

Best place to buy outdoor pavers

With a few methods, you can easily find the Best place to buy outdoor pavers. First, search for local suppliers such as home improvement stores, landscaping supply centers, and stone yards. Websites can be used to check on products, prices, and reviews by consuming the stores’ online content. Another option would be to check online suppliers such as Amazon, Home Depot, Lowe’s, or Wayfair, which provide more variety of paver items along with customer ratings to help assess quality and performance.

In addition, do not overlook specialized retailers that concentrate on outdoor materials exclusively; such shops probably show a wider array of distinct designs and higher-quality merchandise as opposed to big-box home improvement retailers. As you continue to explore choices visit price comparison sites and see what price different retailers offer. One important thing to consider if you’re doing some shopping online is shipping costs that will add value to your purchase percentage. Seasonal sale events or discounts or clearance events in both local and online retailers should be some things to be mindful of; most newsletters would include those exclusive benefits upon signing up.

Visiting showrooms is another excellent way to personally assess pavers, up close and personal with color, texture, and size, before committing to a purchase. Getting some input from friends, family, or locals who have worked with outdoor pavers will also work wonders as they may have some potential leads to reputable suppliers. Reading customer reviews on various platforms is instrumental in understanding other people’s stories about product quality and service.

Before you rush to make a purchase, go ahead and read the return policies of prospective retailers, so you will have some alternatives if the pavers disappoint you. Also, do check the material specifications of the pavers to ensure that they meet your and the pavers’ requirements in durability and resistance to the elements. Online shops may also have delivery options; usually, some retailers give free delivery for larger orders, saving you some bucks. To reinforce this suggestion, consider looking into local manufacturers who perhaps sell directly to consumers; this can yield price savings while building the local economy.

Use the above ideas and, of course, research local suppliers; scour the online markets; check out showrooms; or inquire for recommendations from members who can help you find the best outdoor pavers for your style, budget, and project.

Types of outdoor pavers

There are various types of outdoor pavers. There are many types, shapes, and finishes of pavers that can be used to create beautiful landscapes outside the home. Here’s a detailed overview of the most popular types of these pavers.

Concrete Pavers

Concrete pavers are one of the very popular options that are used for outdoor paving. These are solid slabs usually cast by a mixture of cement, sand, and aggregates. They are available in several different shapes and sizes. The major quality of these pavers is that they are highly durable and they can tolerate heavy foot traffic. They can be put in place outside because they are so watertight as well as harsh weather conditions. The ones made of concrete do not crack, chip, or fade, which makes them perfect for walkways, patios, and driveways, among others. They cover the requirements of being made in many other combinations of color, texture, and finish, as well as the choice of styles made for the exterior landscape. Plus, they are economically one of the cost-benefits among all paving materials.

Brick Pavers

Brick pavers are made from fired clay which is traditionally appealing and quite widely used. Often, they are available in different colors and can use any kind of stone pattern arrangement possible to create aesthetically beautiful designs. Since brick makes up warm colors, it would have to be an inviting natural element that always becomes functional in either a traditional or modern environment. Like natural clay, brick pavers are environment-friendly and recyclable at the end of their lifespan. They are durable enough for years and can be maintained without much effort as they resist fading effects due to long sunlight exposure and withstand elements of extreme weather.

Natural Stone Pavers

Different types of stones used to create natural stone pavers include granite, limestone, slate, and sandstone. Every stone is different, and every stone has an individual unique character, adding elegance to outdoor spaces. Because of its natural variation in color and texture, it provides a very luxurious appearance to the property value increase as well. Natural stone is extremely strong; it can withstand heavy loads and extremes in climate, making it a durable option. Best of all, these pavers suit a variety of applications, such as patios, sidewalks, and pool decks.

Porcelain Pavers

Pavers in Porcelain have become the fad because they have a fashionable finish along with tremendous durability. These pavers are formed out of high-fired clay and are made to withstand the extremes of outdoor conditions while being non-absorbent of staining scratching or fading. They need little maintenance, for they do not absorb moisture and thus are not conducive to mildew and mold growth. Varied colors and patterns are now available in pavers that can be made to look like stone or even wood, offering limitless possibilities in design. Many of the porcelain options are designed to have a texture on the surface that amplifies grip, therefore making them a safer choice for poolside areas or paths that will be commonly exposed to wet conditions.

Rubber Pavers

Sets of rubber pavers are a new material made from recycled tires. This produces a hide soft feel underfoot, which is effective in play areas or zones with child activity. Regardless of all this, it can serve as a slip-resistant surface; its good impact absorption property reduces injuries during falls. Rubber pavers can be molded into many different colors and textures and can be used for very creatively designed outdoor landscapes. Making rubber pavers friendly to the environment and needing little maintenance can also be attributed to their made-from-recycled content.

Travertine pavers

The travertine tiles are natural stone tiles and are different in appearance and texture. They come in warm earth tones that provide the outdoors with rustic beauty. Travertine is tough and very heat resistant; therefore, it serves well on pool decks and patios. Because of its porous nature, it has very good drainage and is less hazardous when wet. It is recommended to seal often to maintain its look and also avoid stains as usual.

Outdoor Paving Garden Tiles

Outdoor paving garden tiles are specifically used for landscaping applications. These tiles can be made of materials such as ceramic, concrete, and natural stone, the very best types to beautify your garden path or patio area. Garden tiles give you the flexibility of design with so much color and shape plus different sizes you could use so that you can form some unique designs that would beautify your garden. There are many companies into eco-friendly garden tiles made from recycled materials or sustainably sourced natural stone. Garden tiles fall in the lightweight, easy-to-handle category and need no installation for laying directly over the existing surface or soil.

How to install outdoor pavers?

One of the most common questions is How to install outdoor pavers? You should follow some important steps to develop a durable surface with excellent aesthetics, Here is a complete guide for installing outdoor pavers:

• Planning and Preparation
  The first step is to determine the area where pavers will be installed. Measure sizes accurately and mark with stakes and string. Study and design the form you want to have, i.e., herringbone, basketweave, or running bond. Ensure that your design conforms to any local regulations you may find applicable considering outdoor installations.
• Excavation
  Once your plan is set, excavate the area to a depth of 6 to 8 inches, depending on the type of pavers you’re using and the load it’s expected to carry. Grass, roots, or debris that may be present should be completely removed. The base must also be level and slope away from all structures to drain well.
• Base Layer Installation
  After excavation, install a base layer of crushed stone or gravel measuring 4 to 6 inches deep. This base adds to the stability of the whole installation and drainage. Compact the base material thoroughly with a plate compactor. Finally, make sure everything is level and smooth since that will be the final build for your pavers.
• Sand Layer
  Then, add the next layer: approximately 1 inch of sand over the compacted base. Level the sand with a screed board across the area. It acts as bedding for the pavers, allowing for some flexibility while permitting them to settle into position.
• Laying the Pavers
  Start laying the pavers in one corner and continue carrying the selected pattern all the way through the area. Push each paver gently into the sand bed. If necessary, use the rubber mallet to tap them into place. Check for level frequently and adjust as needed.
• Cutting Pavers
  Cutting pavers is necessary for edges and corners. Clean cuts are made through the use of either a wet saw or masonry saw. Always wear safety goggles and gloves when cutting pavers. Cutting pavers can be very dangerous because of possible debris penetration.
• Filling Joints
  They are ready to be filled, so fill the joints using polymeric sand or regular sand after all pavers are in place. Sweep the sand into the joints and fill it, ensuring that no gaps are left behind. This activity is beneficial in that it ties the anchored paver in place while creating a condition for weeds not to be able to grow between them.
• Compacting Pavers
  Reinstate that once the joints have been filled, apply the plate compactor on the entire area to settle the pavers in tightly together. This thus locks them into place and provides a securely solid surface in the area.
• Final Touches
  Finally, sweep any excess sand off before misting the surface to lightly activate polymeric sand, if any, in the joints. Allow it to dry following the manufacturer’s instructions.

By following these steps for installation and understanding you can create a beautiful and lasting outdoor space with pavers that enhances your landscape for years to come.

Do outdoor pavers need sealing?

Yes, outdoor pavers need sealing but it isn’t necessary. However, sealing brings great advantages. It protects the pavers from stains, moisture, and fading from UV exposure. It also makes the colors look better and shinier than before, improving their looks.

If you decide to seal your pavers, at least wait for 30 days for installation to allow for settling and moisture escape before applying sealant. Clean the surface thoroughly before sealing to remove dirt and debris. Choose a high-quality sealant designed for your specific type of paver material, whether concrete, brick, or natural stone.

Sealant application usually involves rolling or spraying it for uniform application. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding drying times and when to reapply; most would indicate resealing every 1 to 3 years depending on the surroundings and wear.