Selecting the right pavers for a patio project is one of the biggest decisions a homeowner and contractor have to make. To simplify the process, here are 8 things to consider when selecting patio pavers for your next project in Lancaster, PA.

1. Paver Size

Don’t limit yourself to small pavers to fit small spaces, or large pavers to fit large spaces. The size of the pavers you choose will create a different look: small pavers create textural interest and visually make a space feel cozier, while large format pavers will make a space feel more spacious and less busy (especially when you use a jointing compound that’s a close color match). Some pavers are available in random bundles of three sizes, which makes the choice easier.

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2. Colors

While light colors make spaces feel larger and dark colors make spaces feel smaller, complementing the colors of the home and integrating the patio into the landscape are more important. For example, a bright, light patio might stick out too much next to a dark-colored home surrounded by dense evergreen vegetation. 

3. Materials

Some people want the character of natural stone, and nothing else will do. Others like the features of concrete pavers (including no spalling, easy installation, low maintenance, design versatility, lower cost, as well as permeable options). Today’s concrete pavers have come a long way with more realistic appearance and durability. But ultimately, the choice comes down to two key things: budget and appearance.

4. Styles and laying patterns

Pavers come in an overwhelming range of styles, shapes, sizes, and surface textures. Each of these will create completely different looks. A key consideration is whether the patio will complement the home and be a seamless extension of interior living spaces, or whether it is intended to be more of a stand-alone statement. 

Many homeowners want a timeless look that won’t go out of style…ever. This often means a simple style with fewer embellishments. However, some homes lend themselves to more extravagant and complex designs, so choosing the right paver is even more crucial. Inlays, borders and accents can be achieved with greater efficiency and ease using concrete pavers.  

5. Durability and ease of maintenance

People want to enjoy their outdoor living spaces, and not fuss with them. Choose pavers that have an easy-cleaning surface that is resistant to staining and etching from food and beverage spills, household chemicals, and de-icers. Not all pavers need to be sealed, and this can be a top consideration for the homeowner who wants an outdoor space that’s virtually zero maintenance.

6. Eco-friendliness

For eco-conscious homeowners, this is an important consideration. In terms of a carbon footprint, natural stone is better, as the concrete manufacturing process requires unsustainable environmental practices. Natural stone is quarried, and depleted quarries are often reclaimed and repurposed, so the only ecological cost of natural stone is the quarrying process and transportation. However, part of the ecological cost of concrete can be mitigated by choosing permeable pavers (the pavers themselves aren’t permeable, but larger joints and special jointing compound allow water to seep into the ground below, rather than causing runoff).

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7. Warranty

Peace of mind is essential. While a contractor will guarantee labor, you want to use products that will stand the test of time. At Watsons, we only source concrete pavers from reputable manufacturers and natural stone pavers from reputable quarries.

8. Availability

Nothing is worse than not being able to change the scope of a project or add to it because a paver is out of stock. At Watsons, we ensure that we have enough product in stock or that additional product is easily available to complete any project.