What Are Pavers? Frequently Asked Questions About Paving Stones

Pavers are an incredibly popular material for outdoor hardscaping. But what are pavers, exactly? If you’ve wondered this, here’s some information about pavers, otherwise known as paving stones.

What Are Pavers Made Of?

Interlocking paving stones can be made from a wide variety of materials. However, they usually take one of three forms:

• Concrete

• Natural stone

• Brick (clay)

What Colors and Styles Do Pavers Come In?

One of the great aspects of pavers is that they don’t just come in a variety of materials, they also come in a practically endless selection of colors, patterns, textures, sizes, and styles. These include an array of natural stones, each offering a unique look, as well as different colored bricks, slabs, and tiles.

What Natural Stones Are Used for Pavers?

Many types of natural stone are used to make pavers. Some of the more common include:

• Travertine

• Granite

• Slate

• Limestone

• Basalt

• Flagstone

• Fieldstone

What Are Pavers Used For?

Hardscape paving stone applications are many and varied. Some of the most common uses for pavers include:

• Driveways

• Walkways

• Patios, outdoor foyers, & other outdoor seating areas

• Pool decks

• Outdoor kitchen & grill station flooring

What Are Some Advantages of Paver Hardscaping?

Pavers offer many benefits. Just to name a few, they:

• Are highly customizable in look & layout

• Are quite durable & long-lasting

• Require minimal upkeep

• Are easy & low-cost to replace if one becomes damaged

• Add aesthetic & monetary value to your home

• Are non-slip, secure outdoor flooring

• Reduce yard maintenance needs

• Are eco-friendly

• Are ready for use immediately after installation (unlike poured concrete or asphalt)

How Are Pavers Cleaned and Maintained?

Paving stone hardscaping can be swept clean. Scrubbing them with water and a small amount of detergent will remove dirt and minor discoloration. An occasional pressure washing is beneficial as well. Sometimes, weeds grow between the stones and require removal, but the risk of this is greatly reduced by professional installation and the use of sand filler.