Paving an outdoor area is a highly recommended way to create a space where your family and guests can relax and have a good time. But with the wide variety of natural stone options available, each with its own unique characteristics and sense of appeal, you may find it challenging to decide which type of stone to install. If you’re finding it difficult to make a decision, the following tips can help you choose the right natural stone pavers for your patio.
1. Assess the Space to be Paved
Different types of natural stone pavers are better suited for certain outdoor spaces due to their particular purpose, requirements and look. For spaces that get a lot of foot traffic, such as walkways, driveways and pool decks, you should consider granite, travertine or slate pavers. For spaces with external structural features, such as wall cladding, headers and windowsills, marble, sandstone, bluestone and limestone pavers are a good choice.
2. Think About Paver Size & Purpose
When deciding on the size and laying pattern of your pavers, keep in mind the size and layout of your outdoor space. Large-sized natural stone pavers are recommended for smaller spaces, as they can make these areas look more spacious. Alternatively, installing smaller pavers with elegant laying patterns can make a space more aesthetically appealing or be used to designate particular sections of a space.
3. Think About Texture, Finish & Colour
Natural stone pavers come in a wide range of textures and finishes that can affect the aesthetics and functionality of a space. It’s important to choose a paver colour that will blend well with the existing colour of the exterior space where the pavers will be installed, ensuring the space will look harmonious. You should also consider the kind of look and atmosphere you want your space to convey when deciding on the texture, finish and colour of pavers.
4. Take Sunlight into Account
The effect of sunlight on pavers should not be underestimated. Dark pavers are great for absorbing both sunlight and heat during the cold winter months, but they may get too hot during summer, which can be particularly bothersome in pool areas. In contrast, sunlight that falls on light pavers can make a space too bright and glary during summer. A stone paver expert can provide guidance on which paver option will be best to help you avoid these issues.
5. Verify the Strength & Stain-Resistance of Pavers
Certain types of natural stones are more susceptible to splitting and crumbling than others, and choosing an inappropriate paver type for a particular space can cause major problems in the future. Knowing the strength and stain resistance of the natural stone pavers you’re considering is important when deciding on which type of stone paver to install. It’s crucial to do your research and ensure that you’re selecting a type of natural stone that’s appropriate for your intended use. For example, if you’re planning on using the pavers in a high-traffic area such as a driveway or walkway, you’ll want to choose a durable stone such as granite, which is known for its strength and resilience. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more decorative option, you may want to consider a softer stone like sandstone or limestone.
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