The most common paving questions answered

Pavers are a great choice for those looking for something visually appealing and that doesn’t break the bank. When deciding which pavers are best for your home, there are a few factors to consider, and understandably you’ll have some questions. We’ve put together some common paver questions to help you with the paving at your place.

Can I use any paver for any project?

No, not if you want them last. Pavers come in many different materials, thicknesses and weight-bearing capabilities. For example, a driveway will have heavy vehicles driving over it and parked on it for extended periods, and the pavers need to be able to bear this load without cracking or shifting out of place. On the other hand, a walkway will generally only have people walking across it, so a thinner paver can be used.

How do I know how thick my pavers should be?

For high traffic areas, driveways, and carports, a 60mm paver is best. They are strong, durable, and designed for this type of use. For patios, walkways, courtyards etc, a 40mm paver will be sufficient. While you can use 50mm pavers for driveways, some local councils require the driveway to be 60mm. If you are unsure, it’s best to contact your local council for more information.

Which colour paver should I choose?

This is a personal choice and comes down to your preference, however, to create a cohesive space, it’s best to choose a colour that ties in with the exterior of your home. It’s important to keep in mind that dark pavers get hot if they are exposed to full sun during the day which can burn bare feet. They are better suited to undercover areas and areas that see little to no sun.

What paver material is best?

Overall, all paver types are strong and durable, but it will come down to the area you are paving. For an area such as a patio or around a swimming pool, you’ll want to choose a material that not only looks good but is soft under feet and not abrasive. Travertine and limestone are popular choices for these spaces.

Can I lay pavers myself?

Yes, but you should do your homework first. Some things to consider include whether you need a permit from council or not, the installation technique that is suitable for the area, drainage, and the materials you need.

How long should my pavers last?

When pavers have been laid correctly and they are regularly maintained, you can expect them to last for 50 years or more. Things such as poor drainage, minimal cleaning, and exposure to harsh chemicals can shorten their lifespan significantly.

Do I have to seal my pavers?

While you don’t have to seal your pavers, you’ll get much more life out of them if you do. Sealing has many great benefits, including:

• Preventing stains and excessive moisture from penetrating the paver.
• Protection against UV rays and fading.
• Enhancing the natural texture in the paver.

There are many different sealers on the market, and it’s important that you choose the right one for your paver material to ensure they don’t get damaged.

How often do I have to seal my pavers?

It’s recommended that pavers are sealed every 3 to 5 years or more so if the sealer is starting to show signs of deterioration.

How do I look after my pavers?

If you make an effort to clean your pavers regularly, they don’t need much work to keep them looking their best. Give them a sweep with a stiff broom to shift any dirt and debris. After this, rinse down with a garden hose or pressure cleaner on a low setting. If you have dirt or stains that are hard to remove, you may need to clean them with a suitable cleaner and stain remover.

Will my pavers sink?

This is a common concern for those considering pavers for their home but, if they are installed correctly, you shouldn’t have any issues with sinking pavers. Drainage should be considered, and the base needs to be done right.

How can I stop weeds coming through my paver joints?

As they say, prevention is better than a cure. By laying stabilising filling sand down in the installation process, you can drastically reduce the likelihood of weeds growing through your pavers. Doing this can save you a tonne of time from having to constantly pull out unsightly weeds.

Why should I choose pavers over other materials?

Pavers are great for many reasons, here are some of them:

• You can customise the look by laying them in a pattern or by placing alternating colours.
• They can add to your homes curb appeal and value.
• Strong and long-lasting.
• Require very little upkeep over their lifespan.
• Can withstand the harsh Aussie climate without the risk of cracking.
• Environmentally friendly.
• Easy to repair.
• Non-slip and can be used in a variety of settings.
• Can be walked on virtually straight away, no waiting around.

Speak to a paving professional

We hope this post has answered some questions you may have had about pavers for your home. If not, get in touch with our friendly team, we are happy to answer any questions.

If you’re looking for high-quality Australian made pavers, look no further than our stunning collection here at Bonita Stone, we have something for every taste and home. Check out our website or contact us for more information.