Using concrete pavers for patio, driveway or landscape design has grown over the past few years. This is mainly because they are simple to install, durable, long-lasting and economical. The concrete paver patio designs are also referred to as paving stones and can be used in homes or commercially. Concrete pavers can compliment and give your home exterior stone veneer an even more compelling design and durability.
Pavers for Patio Landscape Design is Quick & Affordable
Interlocking pavers for patio can be set in a day with not wait time. They come in different colors, shapes and textures which create a beautiful patterned driveway or patio surface.
Another reason many homeowners have started using concrete pavers for patio designs is that they are not only easy to install but can be as easily be removed and replaced if necessary. In the end the homeowner will have a high end looking patio or driveway in a fraction of the time and cost.
A Few “How-To/s” For Laying Patio or Driveway Pavers
Before starting any do-it-yourself project pre-planning is important. Look online or get ideas from your local home improvement center. It is a good idea to become familiar with the whole process from measuring the area to be paved to picking out the paver style. Tools that will be needed are a shovel, leveler, compacting machine, concrete saw or mechanical splitter and, of course, gloves and safety glasses.
Several steps will be involved in this type of project. Accurate measurements of the area to be paved and drawing how you would like the pavers to be laid must be made. Then estimate the number of pavers that will be needed. You will also need to estimate the amount of base material of crushed limestone or gravel with an additional layer of sand bedding.
Excavating will be the next phase. Drainage should be considered so be sure the area slopes away from the house. You will have to dig allowing for the depth of the pavers, fill with the base material then compact it with a compacting machine.
You will also need to install edge restraints before installing the pavers. These are necessary to prevent the pavers from moving or separating with high traffic use or extreme weather. The edge restraints are available in pre-cast concrete, plastic, aluminum or steel.
Now you can begin the fun stage of laying the patio blocks in whatever pattern you decide. After you have finished it is a good idea to use the mechanical compactor to help set the pavers. The next and final steps are to spread fine sand over the paver surface to fill in the joints then seal with sand binding sealant. The sealant will help to prevent algae growth, oil and grease stains.
The above are slightly abbreviated instructions for the laying of concrete patio pavers. Look online or talk to the experts at your local home improvement center for more detailed instructions. You can also find photos and suggestions for planning your design.