5 Common Misconceptions About Concrete Paver Patios

1. Concrete Pavers Are Too Expensive

While it is true that the initial cost of placing pavers is more than that of other materials such as poured concrete or maybe blacktop (in the case of a driveway), you will discover that it is ultimately the more cost-effective and attractive alternative. 

The attractiveness and durability of concrete pavers surrounding your home will help to increase the value of your home and save money on future maintenance. While blacktop may crumble and chip, and poured concrete may fracture, concrete pavers require less maintenance, repairs are easier, and you will be happier with the overall appearance of your property.

2. Concrete Pavers Are Too Difficult To Repair

Some homeowners have cited this idea as a valid concern in the past; if they're going to invest in this material, they want to know that future repairs won't be prohibitively expensive or time-consuming. Unlike monolithic hardscapes, which must be fixed in whole sections or patched, pavers can be spot repaired (removed and replaced) by a professional or a handy homeowner. This dependable and resilient hardscape material absorbs pressure, weight, and force differently than other hardscape materials, making it less prone to damage in the first place.

3. Concrete Paver Colors Will Eventually Fade

In this case, the adage "you get what you paid for" holds true. Cheaper pavers are prone to fading, chipping, cracking...etc. for the super-budget-conscious homeowner who doesn't understand the benefit of choosing a quality paver. Quality pavers, on the other hand, are colored throughout their thickness, so color fading is uncommon and should look the same on day one as it does on day 1000!

4. Concrete Pavers = Weeds

The belief that pavers promote weed development is a common but incorrect notion. Weeds can develop in any hardscape joint outside, but you shouldn't expect to see any more weeds in a concrete paver installation than you would with anything else. In fact, with adequate polymeric sand installed between the joints, you should observe fewer weeds! 

Weeds that thrive on a hardscape are frequently the result of seeds falling on top of the concrete pavers and germinating where they land; if you are a homeowner concerned about weed growth, you can be proactive by keeping the joints clean and using a precision spray of all-natural weed killer on a regular basis. Concrete Pavers have a reputation for being a low-maintenance material.

5. Living In Nepa, Concrete Pavers Will Heave

We are adamant that the only pavers that move or heave over time are those that were improperly laid. This is a common criticism among homeowners who have witnessed or experienced cutting corners, emphasizing the need of having a professional construct the hardscape correctly the first time. Excavation, grading, sub-base compaction, geotextile installation, base prep and compaction, sand prep, paver laying, bond beam prep, final compaction, and sand installation are all part of the paver patio, walk, or driveway installation process. All of these measures ensure that the hardscape is properly built and will not be damaged by the freeze/thaw cycles. While anyone can install a paver hardscape, it is recommended to ask for help from professionals.

Have these misconceptions about concrete paver patios stopped you from considering this option for your home? If so, it’s time to set the record straight. Pavers are a great way to add value and beauty to your home, and they don’t have to be expensive or difficult to repair. In fact, with the wide variety of colors and textures available, you can find pavers that will perfectly match your style and taste. And if you live in an area where there is potential for heaving, we have a solution that will prevent that from happening. So what are you waiting for? Call DPG Pavers & Design today for a free consultation on installing a beautiful concrete paver patio for your home.