If you need secure paving in your backyard, on pathways and the patio, you may be deliberating between concrete and natural stone pavers. Here are several reasons to install natural stone pavers.
Won't Form Long Cracks
Sometimes solid concrete slabs can crack to form long crevices as the earth underneath settles and moves. The problem with concrete is that it can't flex in response to these minor ground movements. On the other hand, interlocking pavers are pieced together on top of a bed of sand and crushed rocks. Because the pavers aren't set in place with rigid mortar, they can shift and reposition themselves. Thus, the paving doesn't need to crack extensively to accommodate minor tremors and other such events.
No Puddles
Sometimes, puddles can develop on solid concrete, which degrades the surface. Plus, pooling water forms slippery areas that can cause accidents. You won't have these problems with natural stone paving which is designed to drain water naturally. Rain runs between the pavers and soaks into the sand and gravel foundation. As a result, puddles seldom form on the paving when it rains.
Attractive
Natural stone pavers are more attractive than concrete slabs. The pavers are available in various forms, including square, rectangular, fan and irregular. Your contractor can link them together to make a variety of designs. They can, for example, arrange oblong pavers to create a zigzag herringbone pattern. Alternatively, they can make a basket weave design by laying pairs of rectangle pavers horizontally then vertically. A beautiful circular grid can be created with fan-shaped pavers. You can also create borders and contrasting patterns. For example, lay a straight-line border pattern around a herringbone-style patio. Grey concrete isn't as beautiful as stone pavers. Even though decorative concrete forms ornamental paving, it's not as authentic.
Convenient
A natural stone paving surface comprises individual pavers that fit together to create a secure surface. Because they're not fixed in cement, you can pull them up if they become damaged and put new pavers in place. This moveability helps if you need access to plumbing pipes in the ground underneath. On the other hand, you may need to destroy the surface if you need to access wires or pipes underneath a concrete slab. If concrete fractures over time, it will require time and money to fix, and unlike pavers, you won't be able to just replace one or several pavers.
Reach out to a professional for more information about natural stone pavers.
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