How to design your new outdoor paver
Nothing makes a difference to the appearance and curb appeal of a home, quite like professionally installed pavers. There are several factors why people choose a paver system for their outdoor paradise, primarily because of the availability of a variety of colours and textures that allows one to customise their home like never before.
If your current concrete driveway is cracked, discoloured, or looks old, it is time to install a new outdoor paver. However, when it comes to choosing pavers for your entryway, you will need to make a handful of decisions beforehand. For example- How do you want your landscape to look? Which type of pavers will be best for your house? Do you want small stones or large slabs? What will be the colour of the pavers? And many more.
Following are the few considerations when deliberating on such decisions:
- Your current design scheme of the house
- Size of the space
- House material and colour
- Planned use for the space (like BBQ)
- Weather conditions where you live
- Future expansion plans (if any)
- The internal colour scheme of the flooring
Further, this article will walk you through a few tips on choosing the right outdoor pavers.
Tips on how to choose outdoor pavers
#1 Research the prices of pavers and labour
The selection process of outdoor pavers starts with finding a reliable landscaping contractor in your area. So browse the internet, shortlist at least 3-5 contractors, compare their estimated costs and timelines for finishing the project and then choose the one that best caters to your needs and fits in your pocket. But before finalising the project, don’t forget to ask them for referrals and check out their previous work. Doing this is recommended to help you know the quality of finish you can expect.
#2 Choose pavers keeping in mind the climatic conditions
If your location receives a lot of rain or heat, it is advisable not to go for brick because bricks are porous and often break down easily in harsh weather conditions. In that case, concrete and stone will be a good bet for you. However, if your house is in an area with a moderate climate, you can go for bricks. To conclude, you must consider the environment you live in when choosing pavers for your dwelling.
#3 Sturdy materials are suitable for exposed areas
Sun often causes premature wearing on almost all types of pavers. So better you go for sturdy and muted coloured materials like stone and concrete for sun-exposed areas. However, you can choose whatever colour or material you prefer for covered pavement. But don’t forget to take other materials (like outdoor furniture) in the area while choosing the pavers.
#4 Choose the suitable shapes and styles according to the width of your area
The width of your area plays a vital role in deciding the shape, sizes and orientations of your outdoor paver. Do you want to know how? Continue reading! For a large yard, small pavers mean more labour and are more time-consuming. In contrast, if you have a narrow yard, wide pavers will not do well as they create an illusion of an even smaller space. In contrast
#5 Select the colour of the pavers that mesh well with your home
If your house has been painted with some neutral colours like beige or white, almost all pavers will go well. However, if it has more distinct colours, look for a colour scheme that works with your yard colour and existing home. You are free to experiment with colours, designs, textures and shapes without fretting about your existing home decor.
Well-laid pavers have practical use and also enhance the overall appeal.
