What Is The Right Surfacing Material For Your Patio?
STONE
Stone is a natural and durable option for your patio. Stone also fits into a garden setting because of its many natural hues. It lasts and holds its color longer than any of the other materials.
FLAGSTONE
A hard, flat stone: cut or split flagstone is becoming increasingly popular for patio floors because of its distinctive, natural look. Typical colors are red, blue and buff.
ADVANTAGES:
Flagstone can last for decades. Because it is laid one stone at a time, it is a relatively simple DIY project, though a time-consuming one. Installers can choose a simple dry construction - setting the flagstone in sand - or a more permanent installation, which involves concrete mortar. Flagstone requires little maintenance beyond regular sweeping away of the debris that could leave stains or mold on the stone.
DISADVANTAGES:
Some of the stones can be quite hefty to work with. Also, for the patio to be level, the depth of the base or ground must be adjusted to account for the varying thickness of the stone. Because flagstone reflects sun it can get hot underfoot, and it can get slippery if wet.
PAVERS
COBBLE PAVERS
Cobblestone pavers are usually composed of pieces of granite, although basalt and other rocks are sometimes referred to as cobblestones when installed.
ADVANTAGES:
If you want a durable, attractive, and unique patio, it's hard to beat cobblestone. Granite is stain resistant, it isn't affected by weather, and it doesn't crack or split like most other paver materials.
DISADVANTAGES:
Cobble pavers are not cheap; if you are looking for a low budget patio, you might be better off considering concrete pavers or gravel. You might also want to consider concrete pavers made to simulate the look of cobblestone.
CONCRETE PAVERS
ADVANTAGES:
Concrete pavers are made of dense concrete compacted to form individual units that can mimic brick or natural stone, but at a less expensive price. And, they can come in a variety of colors and shapes.
Different installation methods for concrete pavers can offer the homeowner different benefits. Since most pavers are laid as individual units, they can be replaced easily without disturbing the rest of the patio. Some concrete pavers have interlocking joints, which help create stability for the patio because they're less likely to shift out of place. When set in sand the pavers have an element of give, so they can withstand changes in temperature and loads by shifting instead of cracking.
DISADVANTAGES:
Due to their strict geometric shape, the pavers offer less freedom in the patterns that can be created. Also, some concrete pavers have shallow pigments that may fade over time, or that reveal the bare concrete underneath when scratched.
Pioneer Landscape Centers however, are one of the few to offer concrete pavers with full pigmentation, ensuring you get even color all the way through.
GRAVEL
Pea Gravel is a longtime favorite in the UK and is gaining favor in the US. Pea Gravel consists of small, rounded stones which come in assorted sizes and colors, and emit an earthy beauty.
ADVANTAGES:
Pea Gravel is inexpensive and lends itself to easy, DIY installation. All you must do is shovel, and you can install it into any shape or size patio. Because water doesn’t run off its surface, but rather through the stones and into the ground, Pea Gravel can help prevent erosion.
SET-UP TIPS:
1. Install landscaping fabric beneath the patio to separate dirt and gravel so you don’t end up with a muddy mess in a few seasons. Also, the fabric discourages weed growth.
2. If you want to counteract the stones’ tendency to shift, put a honeycomb stabilization layer over the landscaping fabric, then infill with gravel.
PAVERS FOR OUTDOOR AREAS
Pioneer Landscape Centers is celebrating its 50-year anniversary! Visit our fully interactive Outdoor Inspiration page to help dream up new ideas for your outdoor living space, including pavers for outdoor areas. There you will find links to all your favorite Pioneer Landscape materials, available at our locations in Colorado and Arizona. We have 36 convenient locations – Contact Us at (855)-970-6390 to speak to an expert and find a location near you!