Using Concrete Pavers - Advantages and Disadvantages

Concrete pavers are a paving material that is often considered on a project. But are they right for you? They do have their pros and cons.

Here are some of the advantages of concrete pavers and they apply to most any project, whether it be a driveway, walk, patio or even swimming pool decking.

Pavers come in many different colors. They are available in tan, beige, carmel, red, brown, gray. Many are offered as a mix of colors. Colors might be mixed right in each paver to give a more stone-like appearance, or they may come assorted.

There are many different patterns and sizes to choose from. You can use all one size or select a random pattern with mixed sizes. This presents a cobblestone look. Pavers come in a multitude of sizes. They can be as small as 3 inches by 6 inches or as large as 24 inch squares...sometimes even more.

You can select from different kinds of pavers. There is the more traditional pavers or the stone-like ones. The latter are known as tumbled pavers and create a more natural look. The fit is not as tight and the edges are uneven to mimic stone.

Pavers last for many, many years and do not deteriorate.

They are moderately priced. They are more than concrete, but less than brick or stone.

Many paver companies offer coordinating circle kits. This is a nice design element. It is actually a circle, with the paver pattern radiating outward. This can offer a nice break to a large areas of pavers.

Since they are dry laid, if there is ever a problem with the installation, a paver or pavers can be easily replaced.

Here are some disadvantages of pavers.

Pavers can be hot on your feet, particularly the darker colors. This is something to consider if you are thinking about using them for swimming pool decking.

They are a man made material. They are made from concrete. This is not necessarily bad. It is just a matter of the look you want for your project. Material such as bluestone or travertine pavers are natural stone products and offer a different kind of look.

Pavers can fade over time, so the original color that you select won't be there in years to come.

To summarize, concrete pavers are definitely something to consider, particularly if natural stone is too costly. I have used them on projects that have turned out very, very nice. For pool paving, another option, such as less expensive concrete or more expensive travertine pavers would be cool on your feet and better choices.

You can read more about concrete pavers at my website, where I discuss more detailed design considerations and installation procedures.

Susan Schlenger is a Landscape Designer with a degree in Landscape Architecture. Read more about Concrete Pavers at her website. You might also be interested in learning more about Travertine Pavers.