Constructing a paved path that cuts across your garden will automatically increase your garden’s visual appeal. A little hardscaping goes a long way in terms of aesthetics and making the yard look more manicured. The contrast brought about by a paved path or patio will make your flowers and herbs stand-out.
The easiest way to do it is by using poured concrete. However, in many cases, the look of poured concrete is as plain and monotonous as a blank canvass. If that’s the case, instead of adding value to your yard, it does the opposite.
Consider using concrete pavers instead. Concrete pavers are durable, colorful and best of all, cheap. Cheaper than stone at least. Concrete pavers are also easy to install because they are modular. Here are some pointers before investing on concrete pavers.
Baiscally, concrete pavers contain sand, gravel, portland cement, and water, but the texture and durability differ depending on how they're made.
Types of Concrete Pavers
1. Interlocking
Invented after the World War II due to shortage of bricks. Interlocking is made with strong concrete mix. When installed, this type of concrete paver have edge spacers fro creating uniform joints. Although this tough concrete paver can stand heavy vehicular traffic, which makes it perfect for driveways, the texture does not have a natural look.
2. Architectural slabs
Thinner than the interlocking slabs but definitely more aesthetic value. Architectural slabs looks like natural stone, prettier than the interlocking slabs, but can’t handle vehicles.
DIY or Professional
Yard paths and patios are fairly easy to construct DIY-style. But if you have a big construction project, better hire a professional to do it.
Durability
Interlocking is more durable and have a lifetime warranty. Some suppliers though offer limited warranties on architectural slabs.
Maintenance
Very little maintenance and escept for the occasional sweeping and weeding, concrete pavers are always almost neat and pristine. However, it absorbs stains and needs degreasing.
Pros
- Easy installation
- Slip resistance
- Resilieance
- Weather resistance
Cons
- Time fades the colors, exposes the concrete mix underneath
- Stains. Especially from oil
- Monotonous. Same color hues and shades in every slab make it look so unlike stone.
- Weeds grow in between slabs