The versatility and aesthetics of pavers are an excellent way to transform your outdoor space. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy patio, a winding garden pathway, or a sturdy driveway, choosing the right paver can genuinely elevate your project. With numerous options available, how do you determine which one is best suited to your needs? Let’s break down the most popular types of pavers, their standout features, and what to keep in mind before you decide.
1. Concrete Pavers
Concrete pavers are far and away the most popular type of paver thanks to their budget-friendly price and adaptability. Crafted from cement and aggregates, they’re available in a wide range of shapes, sizes, textures, and colors, allowing you to achieve anything from a sleek, modern look to a rustic, traditional vibe. They are more durable than poured/stamped concrete but are typically not as long-lasting as natural stone. Concrete pavers can be sealed every couple of years to extend their lifespan and enhance their appearance.
2. Flagstone Pavers
Flagstone pavers are renowned for their distinctive, organic shapes and rich color palette, ranging from warm earth tones to cool grays and reds. Their irregular forms allow for creative, natural-looking designs, ideal for winding paths or expansive patios. Flagstone is dense and tough, easily withstanding decades of weather, and its textured surface provides excellent slip resistance. While installation can be more involved and costly, flagstone’s longevity and character make it a favorite for homeowners seeking both beauty and function.
3. Bluestone Pavers
Bluestone, a type of flagstone, is known for its striking blue-gray hues, though it can also exhibit gold, brown, and slate tones. Quarried mainly in the northeastern U.S., bluestone is dense, durable, and resistant to cracking and weather damage. Its rough texture offers excellent traction, making it ideal for patios, pool decks, and driveways. Bluestone’s natural variation and shape options offer diverse design options, but sealing is recommended to protect its porous surface and preserve its color.
4. Travertine Pavers
Travertine pavers are both beautiful and practical, especially around pools and patios. This porous limestone is available in warm shades, including beige, ivory, and walnut. Travertine’s textured finish offers excellent slip resistance and stays cool underfoot in the heat. It’s durable, resists cracking and fading, and allows water to drain through, minimizing puddles. Sealing helps protect travertine from stains, making it a stylish and functional option.
5. Marble Pavers
Marble pavers add a touch of luxury and sophistication to outdoor spaces. Known for its smooth, polished surface and dramatic veining, marble comes in a range of colors. It’s highly durable but can be slippery when wet and is more prone to staining; therefore, regular sealing is essential. Though marble is one of the pricier options, its timeless elegance makes it a popular choice for upscale patios and walkways.
6. Granite Pavers
Granite pavers epitomize strength and durability. This coarse-grained stone is one of the hardest available, making it exceptionally resistant to scratches, chips, and weather. Granite’s light color and crystalline look bring a modern, refined touch to outdoor spaces. It’s easy to clean and can be finished in various ways for added slip resistance. While granite is among the most expensive choices, its longevity and low maintenance make it a wise investment for high-traffic areas.
7. Cobblestone Pavers
Cobblestone pavers, often made from granite or basalt, bring old-world charm and unmatched durability. Their rugged appearance is ideal for driveways and historic-inspired landscapes, although installation can be labor-intensive, and snow removal may be challenging.
8. Porcelain Tile Pavers
For something different, consider porcelain tile pavers. These engineered ceramic tiles replicate the appearance of natural stone, offering easy maintenance and a wide range of colors. They’re durable and stain-resistant, though they can be slippery when wet and require precise installation.
9. Brick Pavers
If classic charm is what you’re after, brick pavers deliver timeless appeal. Made from natural clay and kiln-fired, they offer rich, earthy tones that hold their color well. Brick pavers are especially popular for patios and walkways, though their color choices are somewhat limited. They’re durable but can be affected by harsh freeze-thaw cycles.
10. Decorative Gravel
Though not technically a paver, gravel can occupy the same spaces as pavers. Gravel is a practical, affordable choice for informal paths, patios, or driveways. It’s easy to install, offers excellent drainage, and is reliable for many outdoor uses, though it doesn’t provide the polished look of pavers.
Four Paver Styles
If you’re more focused on the look than the material, consider these popular paver styles:
- Interlocking Pavers: Designed to fit together like puzzle pieces, these pavers (often concrete or brick) create strong, stable surfaces.
- Tumbled Pavers: Mechanically distressed for a weathered, rustic appearance.
- Textured Pavers: Finished with rough, non-slip surfaces, ideal for high-traffic areas.
- Smooth Pavers: Flat and sleek, perfect for modern designs or to complement textured pavers.
Choosing the Right Paver
The best paver for your project depends on your needs, style preferences, and budget. For driveways, durability and low maintenance are key: concrete, brick, or cobblestone are excellent picks. Walkways benefit from slip-resistant options, such as textured concrete or natural stone. For patios, the choice is yours: select the material that best matches your vision and lifestyle.
Regardless of the type you choose, pavers offer a blend of beauty and practicality that can enhance any outdoor space. If you’re unsure where to start, visiting a showroom or consulting with a paver expert can help you see your options in person and make a decision you’ll enjoy for years to come.