COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT STONE PAVERS

Stone pavers have been used for centuries in building and construction. As one of the most versatile and durable building materials, stone paving continues to be very widely used for both indoor and outdoor living spaces. As with any material, there are some misconceptions surrounding stone paving and how it works, whether it’s sandstone pavers or any other type of paving material. Here, we look at these myths and why they’re wrong.

Myth 1 : Pavers Don’t Last

Good quality pavers are actually some of the most durable building and paving materials for construction. However, depending on the supplier, paving stones may sometimes range in quality. It’s therefore important to find a paving specialist committed to sourcing highly durable and quality pavers.

At general level, pavers are one of best and most natural choices for paving outdoor spaces and walkways. Compared to alternatives such as concrete and asphalt, stone paving is just as durable, with the added benefit of having much more aesthetic value.

Myth 2 : Pavers Encourage Weed Growth

The idea that pavers encourage weed growth is a persistent but inaccurate misconception. Outdoor pavers are laid down with polymeric sand or other paver joint sand, which means there’s no space for weeds, insects or dirt to grow or gather in the area between stone pavers.

Myth 3 : Pavers Become Uneven Over Time

Pavers usually only become uneven if they’re not laid correctly the first time. After correct installation it’s unusual for pavers to shift or move around. Even if there was some adjustment required, pavers can be set without mortar so they can be adjusted and repaired relatively easily. Some unevenness can often be explained by tree roots or poor drainage that precipitates subsidence.

Myth 4 : Pavers are Difficult to Repair

Compared with concrete surfaces, pavers are easy to repair. In the unlikely event that a paver is broken or where a stone paver experiences extreme impact, the damaged paver can be removed and replaced with ease. Compare this to the case of concrete where specialist equipment is often required for repairs.

Myth 5 : Pavers are Costly

Pavers are some of the most cost effective material choices available. Their attractiveness and durability can boost your home value and earn their cost many time over back to you. Given the value of good quality pavers, pavers are not costly – they are excellent value for money.

Myth 6 : Pavers are Difficult to Lay

While you should have a design idea in mind before you set out to lay pavers, laying pavers is actually not a difficult thing to do. Paver pathways are relatively simple while larger projects, such as swimming pool cladding or walling may take some specialist skill. In all, pavers are no more difficult or time consuming than concrete or other materials to use. The most important stage is substrate preparation – the surface on which the pavers are to be laid must be hard packed. There are rental machines available to do this very effectively.

Myth 7 : Pavers have Limited Colour Choice

With the range of stones available, those using pavers are spoilt for choice when it comes to colour. Sandstone paving is warm, classic, and earthly; bluestone brings sophisticated elegance and durability; limestone comes in luxurious and modern tones that are often used for public buildings. Other choices include quartzite, travertine, granite, and more.