Constructing a garden path, patio, or poolside all begins with the paving stones underfoot. Your paver selection is therefore just as important as any other part of your Plainview, NY, hardscape and deserves careful consideration. When selecting a material for your patio floor or pool deck, the choice generally boils down to two options: natural stone and concrete. While both materials have their own inherent benefits, the perfect material for your landscape depends upon your unique preferences and desired design. Read on for important information about each material that should guide you in choosing the right material for you.
Concrete pavers for reliability and versatility
Concrete is renowned for its durability. Many concrete paver manufacturers, such as Unilock, fortify their pavers for enhanced strength. Concrete pavers can be laid in an interlocking fashion, with the spaces between them filled with jointing sand. This enhances their collective strength, as the interlocking units will stabilize and support one another to prevent individual pavers sinking and shifting under heavy loads. The laying patterns achieved by pavers are especially suited to driveways, as they need to be able to withstand the daily pressure of vehicular traffic.
These pavers can be made to look identical or each can be given their own unique character, as they are manufactured by pouring concrete into molds. Pavers are then dyed to achieve a particular look. They can even be made to emulate natural stone, for a less expensive, often more durable alternative to authentic stone. In addition to the natural stone aesthetics of flagstone, granite, sandstone, and bluestone, concrete pavers can offer the look of brick and cobblestone.
Concrete pavers can be made in a near-endless variety of shapes, colors and textures, putting these materials among the most versatile hardscaping options on the market.
Natural stone for timeless elegance
There are many different types of natural stone, from majestic dark granite to light sandstone with a tropical feel. The main advantage of using natural stone lies in the fact that every piece is entirely unique. The distinctive color and texture of a particular stone depends on where it was quarried. A natural stone surface never fails to captivate and is an excellent way to personalize your hardscape.
Because of its inherent aesthetic value, natural stone is ideal for entertainment areas and spaces that are subject to light foot traffic such as walkways and patios. However, natural stone can be a less than practical option for driveways given their natural inconsistencies, particularly where the driveway is intended for commercial or heavy vehicle use.
Although natural stone is often obtained in rich, earthy shades and rustic textures, it is equally compatible with contemporary hardscape designs as it is with more traditional designs. The luxurious look and feel of authentic stone pairs well with other sophisticated materials found in modern patios, such as refined wood and polished metal. Homeowners that commit to natural stone surfaces are unlikely to replace them, as their timeless beauty never goes out of style and will not yield to wear and tear.
Image courtesy of Unilock.
