Paved walkways can be an essential improvement to your property. They protect lawns from foot traffic and provide an inviting visual path to your front door. Concrete has long been the material of choice for walkways. In recent years, though, concrete has begun to look dated while pavers have become the new favorite for high-end homes. Why are new home builders and savvy remodelers choosing pavers over concrete? Here are five positives of using pavers instead of concrete.
Upgraded Curb Appeal
A paved walkway sweeping toward your porch or patio can be a signature element of your home’s appearance. Pavers come in a variety of styles that can be mixed and matched to create a custom look that is uniquely your own. To create a lavish appearance, create wide walkways using broad curving lines. Match the proportions of your walkway to the size of your house and yard, but be generous. Choose colors and textures that compliment the materials already on your home.
Easy to Install
Pavers are easy to install. Interlocking pavers are designed to fit together like puzzle pieces, providing one of the quickest and easiest ways to upgrade the appearance of your home. Although proper installation takes time and planning, the final result is worth the effort. Moreover, a paved walkway is ready to use as soon as it’s finished whereas concrete takes three to five days to set.
Simple to Repair
If concrete gets stained or cracked, you have to live with it or deal with messy repairs that are rarely invisible even when they’re professionally done. If your pavers get stained, you can simply turn them over or replace the defaced stones. If the ground under your walkway shifts, you can pull up your pavers, level the ground, and set them back into place. Pro Tip: Stockpile a few extra pavers in case you need them down the road as replacements.
Better Drainage
Concrete doesn’t allow water to drain, so rain causes puddles and slippery surfaces and eventually leads to cracks and damage to your concrete walkways. Pavers have spaces between them that allow rainwater to drain away easily. That means your paved walkway will last longer than concrete, and it also means a dryer surface under your family’s feet on rainy days.
Cohesive Outdoor Environment
You can use natural materials like flagstones to create a path, a retaining wall, steps, and a patio. Choose just one or two paving materials and you can create all kinds of architectural elements in your yard that give a cohesive look and feel. Add some richly colored mulch and perennial plants or shrubs for foliage and you can create a stylish wonderland around your home.
Pavers are an easy way to add drama and artistry to your home’s exterior while creating durable and easy-to-maintain surfaces for your walkways, patios, and other architectural elements. Whether you’re looking for a way to increase your home’s curb appeal or you want to create a cozy patio area for your family, pavers are a durable, versatile, and elegant choice.
