Stone Pavers are natural or manufactured flat stones used to make decorative patterns on walking paths, driveways, patios, and entryways. Paver stones are generally 2 inches thick with a 20-inch width. They are sometimes called "setts” pages which represent the old traditional style of cobblestone pavers developed in the 1800s for use by London Street vendors.
Types of Pavers –
Natural Stone Pavers:
Natural stone is usually more expensive than artificial materials because it is mined out of the earth’s surface. You might find minute holes on the surface of the pavers; however, there is nothing to worry about the finishing. The small hole in this type of paver is intentional because when it rains, the water is supposed to seep into the tiny holes and then evaporate back into the air. If you live in an area that receives a lot of rain, this type of pavers might be a good choice because it helps prevent your lawn from collecting too much stagnant water.
Mortared Stone Pavers:
Mortared stone pavers are not actual stones but uniform concrete blocks with consistent shapes and thicknesses that can be laid just like bricks without any mortar or adhesive. The block shape makes mortared stone pavers less expensive than natural stones, which means it’s easier to find matching sets if you're looking to complete a uniform look on your patio, front porch, or walkway.
Concrete Pavers:
If you are seeking robust and durable pavers, you can get pavers composed of molded concrete amalgamated with aggregate. Their availability in varieties of hues and designs featuring interlocking patterns make them a favorable alternative. The gap between these interlocking patterns allows the drainage of water through the surface. Hence, making its usage more versatile.
Tips For Choosing Stone Pavers-
When choosing stone pavers, there are several factors to consider: cost, durability, hue, texture, and size. You don't want to wind up with 3-inch pebbles if you're looking for something more substantial. On the other hand, if money's no object goes ahead and get the 3-inch stuff because it looks great when installed right. The best way to choose stone is by considering these three key factors: design, site conditions, and budget.
Design is the most important factor in choosing stone pavers. Before you go out shopping for stones, think about what kind of look you're trying to achieve. Take examples of the different types of paving stones available (flagstone, slate, etc.) and picture them at your site. The color and texture of the stone will make a big difference in the overall effect.
Site conditions need to be taken into consideration while purchasing stone pavers because they can affect what kind of stone you use and how to install them. These aspects are:
- Soil Type - If your soil is loose and sandy, you'll want to install a gravel underlayment before laying down the flagstones.
- Slope - If there's too much slope for proper drainage or safe access, choose permeable pavers that allow water through or go with a flat slab of stone that won't become slippery when wet.
- Climate - Some types of pavers are better for colder climates than others; therefore, search as per the climatic conditions.
Budget is always important, but don't let it compromise the overall effect you're trying to achieve with stone pavers. For example, if you want to create an elaborate multi-level patio, make sure your budget can handle the cost of the different kinds of stone you'll need.
Conclusion-
Stone pavers come in different shapes, including rectangles, squares, hexagons, octagons, and diamonds. So, finding just the right paver stone will not be hard as you have lots of choices, including various colors or color mixes. Many homeowners prefer custom-cut paver stones that fit together without gaps around them because they give the impression that the finished area is one contiguous surface. There are three basic types of paver stones which include concrete pavers, clay pavers, and natural stone pavers like bluestone, limestone, or granite.
