Style And Function Combined: The Many Faces Of Flooring Pavers

Initially used for road construction in the early century Roman culture, the use of pavers has grown in scale and has occupied the areas of home improvement and commercial development. Design-wise, flooring pavers are geometrically molded blocks or slabs of paving materials used to cover surface areas. This type of flooring material is popular for its puzzle-like appearance which consists of interlocking pavers arranged in different aesthetic formations, providing functionality while also being pleasing to the eye.

Types of Pavers: Variety for All Uses

Homeowners generally use paving stones in the patio, garden, or driveway. For commercial use, interlocking pavers are commonly seen on sidewalks, public parks, or commercial grounds. Because of its wide-scale use, different paving stone types were developed to suit the needs of each market:

Brick Pavers: Traditional brick products used for paving surfaces are red clay and rectangular-shaped slabs which are compacted through a high-temperature kiln. Aside from the distinct red shade, brick pavers are popular for their sturdiness and durability. Large format pavers are also known for their flexibility in pattern and style. Pink, gray, or brown bricks are also used in mainstream home improvement projects and are arranged in different ways such as basket weave, running bond, stacked design, or the diagonal herringbone style.

Concrete Pavers: This type is more or less, a variation of brick pavers; instead of clay, the components of the mixture include water, concrete or cement, sand, and other types of solid aggregates which are then molded under a high-temperature kiln. Concrete pavers are commonly rectangular and are arranged on the floor surface with gaps/joints of grout, grass, gravel, or sand. Flooring pavers of this type are popular for their simple, minimalist yet tidy appearance.

Stone Pavers: Boast of the natural look that they can bring to any spot. Paving components used for this type include granite, limestone, or flagstone which are polished and molded to suit the pattern desired. Stone pavers are a popular choice among customers who look for natural-looking elements that can be varied according to color, size, form, and finish.

Landscaping with pavers does not only leverage the aesthetic appearance of the end product; the wide use of paving stones proves their functionality and flexibility at a value-for-money cost. Homeowners, property owners, and commercial developers can both balance the elements of style and function with the use of pavers or paving stones.

Most people prefer to use concrete pavers outside their patios, sidewalks, driveways, and pool sides as it requires less maintenance. However, to protect pavers from spills, grease, pollution, dirt, and oil stains, it is essential to seal them. It helps to retain their original color and shields them from foreign elements. Pavements suffer damage as it is exposed to various elements.

Benefits of Concrete Pavers:

Different types of sealers can be used for sealing pavers. Some people prefer high gloss sealers which exude a distinctive appearance. There are natural finishes that are simple and natural in appearance. Some of the functional benefits of using these sealers include the following:

Less Maintenance: One of the greatest benefits of using these types of sealers is that it seldom requires maintenance. It can be cleaned quickly and easily. Simple wiping or pressure cleaning with water is enough to clean these pavers as dirt seldom sticks to the glossy surfaces.

Appearance: It also improves the overall appearance of the Large format pavers by intensifying their natural colors. Different types of sealers can be used to obtain the different visual effects.

Preservation: Consistent exposure to the harmful rays of the sun can fade the color of the pavement. But a UV-rated sealer can protect the colors from fading.

Durability: Sealers also lend durability to the pavers as it shields them from damages caused due to fungal infections, acid reactions, and so forth. It also protects the groves and prevents the loosening of stones. The pavers are well preserved under all types of weather conditions.

Clean: It also appears clean and well maintained as it is protected from the formation of fungus and microorganisms. This enhances the décor of the entire home and surroundings.

Cost efficient: Although sealing pavers are quite expensive, it is beneficial in the long run as it seldom requires maintenance. There is hardly any need to use expensive cleaners and disinfectants to clean the patios. It remains well preserved for many years to come.

Versatility: Sealers can be used on various surfaces such as stones, cement surfaces, and so forth.

Inhibit the growth of weeds: It also inhibits the growth of weeds and insects in the groves.

Before the sealing process, it is essential to clean the pavers with a broom. Remove all dust and debris from the paved area and pressure wash it thoroughly. Use household detergents to wash the area and scrub it to remove stubborn stains.

Removal of weeds is the next step as weeds tend to grow through the cracks. Use an herbicide weed killer to prevent the growth of weeds. Before sealing, it is also pertinent to fill the joints with mortar. The mortar should be dried before applying the sealer.

Water-based sealers are appropriate for pavers as it forms an appropriate protective layer. Wear protective gloves and eyewear while sealing the pavers. Use these products according to the instructions of the manufacturers.