Homeowners often wonder whether the investment in pavers justifies the expense compared to other options like concrete or asphalt.

Pavers offer aesthetic appeal but have higher initial costs. Questions about durability and maintenance can deter decision-makers, leaving them uncertain about whether pavers are the right choice.

This article explores the long-term benefits of pavers, including their durability, design flexibility, and potential to increase property value. We’ll help you determine if pavers are cost-effective for your landscaping needs.

Are Pavers Worth The Money?

Pavers are worth the investment for their durability, aesthetic appeal, and ability to increase property value. While initially more expensive than options like concrete, pavers offer long-term savings due to lower maintenance costs and ease of repair. Their versatility in design also allows for unique, customisable outdoor spaces.

Read this article about What are Outdoor Pavers?

Why Are Pavers Worth The Money?

1. Durability and Longevity

Pavers are renowned for their durability and longevity, often outperforming traditional paving materials like concrete and asphalt.

Made from high-strength concrete, clay, or natural stone, pavers are designed to withstand heavy loads and traffic without cracking or dislodging. This robust construction makes them suitable for both residential and commercial applications.

• Durability Compared to Other Materials: Concrete slabs are prone to cracking over time due to temperature fluctuations and ground movement. Asphalt, while flexible, can deteriorate faster, requiring more frequent repairs or replacement. In contrast, pavers interlock, allowing for better stress distribution and slight movement without damage, significantly enhancing their lifespan.
• Longevity and Weather Resistance: Pavers excel in various climates, from freezing winters to scorching summers. They handle freeze-thaw cycles effectively, as their joints allow space for ice expansion without cracking. Properly installed pavers can last 30 to 40 years or more with minimal maintenance.
• Real-World Longevity Examples: A notable case study involves interlocking pavers in a public park in Sydney, Australia. Despite heavy foot traffic and exposure to harsh weather conditions, the pavers have maintained their integrity and appearance for over 20 years, with only minimal joint sand replenishment needed.

2. Aesthetic Appeal

Pavers offer unmatched aesthetic benefits, transforming outdoor spaces into elegant, cohesive landscapes. 

Their appeal lies not just in their functionality but in their ability to enhance visual interest and ambience.

• Variety in Design: Pavers come in many colours, shapes, and textures, allowing endless design possibilities. Whether you aim for a rustic, traditional look or a sleek, modern aesthetic, there’s a paver to match. This versatility enables homeowners and designers to create unique patterns and layouts that can’t be achieved with monolithic materials like poured concrete.
• Complementing Architectural Styles: The wide range of available styles makes pavers particularly adept at complementing various architectural themes. Traditional cobblestone pavers can reinforce the historical feel of a colonial-style home, whereas larger, geometric pavers with clean lines suit contemporary structures. The right pavers can bridge the home’s architecture with its landscape, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.
• Enhancing Landscaping Designs: Beyond the practical walkway or patio, pavers can define spaces, guide the visual flow, and add character to outdoor areas. They can demarcate a dining area, lead the eye along a garden path, or provide a contrasting border for flower beds, enhancing a garden’s overall design and feel.

3. Versatility and Flexibility

Pavers are celebrated for their exceptional versatility and flexibility, accommodating various design preferences and functional needs. This makes them an ideal choice for various outdoor installations.

• Design Options and Installation Flexibility: Pavers are available in many colours, shapes, and textures, allowing for creative and unique paving designs. Their modular nature means they can be laid in intricate patterns, from simple herringbone and basketweave to sophisticated circular and fan designs. Additionally, they can be cut to fit any space, offering flexibility that is often challenging with other materials like poured concrete.
• Applications Across Outdoor Spaces: Pavers are robust and durable enough for high-traffic areas like driveways and aesthetically pleasing for more decorative applications like patios and pool decks. Their slip-resistant surface makes them a safe choice for pool areas, and their ease of installation on different terrains makes them suitable for walkways through gardens or around a home.
• Adaptability Over Time: One significant advantage of pavers is their adaptability. If underground repairs are necessary or if the design of the outdoor space changes, individual pavers can be removed and reinstalled without noticeable patches or disruption. This feature is particularly beneficial for expanding or modifying patios and walkways as your landscape evolves.

4. Maintenance and Repair

Pavers offer a distinct advantage in maintenance and repair compared to traditional paving materials like concrete or asphalt. 

Their modular nature enhances aesthetic appeal and simplifies upkeep and repairs, ensuring long-term durability and cost-effectiveness.

• Maintenance Requirements: Unlike concrete slabs that require sealing and can suffer from widespread cracking, pavers need minimal maintenance to retain their appearance and structural integrity. Routine maintenance for pavers typically involves regular sweeping to remove debris and occasional rinsing with water to prevent dirt accumulation. Applying a sealant every few years is advisable to avoid weed growth and sand loss in the joints, enhancing colour vibrancy.
• Best Practices for Maintenance: The best practice for maintaining pavers includes checking for movement or settling, which can be easily corrected by re-levelling affected areas. Regular inspection of joint sand and replenishment helps maintain stability and prevent weed growth. Sealing pavers can also protect against staining and fading, extending their lifespan significantly.
• Repair Advantages: One of the standout features of pavers is the ease of repair. Individual pavers can be removed and replaced without impacting the surrounding area, contrasting with repairing concrete or asphalt. This not only makes it cost-effective but also less time-consuming. For stains or damages, replacing the affected pavers can restore the area’s aesthetics, unlike concrete, which might require extensive patching or complete resurfacing.

5. Cost Considerations

When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of pavers, it’s essential to consider both the initial investment and the potential long-term savings. While pavers are often more expensive upfront than materials like concrete or asphalt, they offer substantial benefits that can translate into cost savings over time.

• Initial Costs: The purchase and installation costs of pavers are generally higher due to the labour-intensive process of laying each paver individually and the premium price of high-quality materials. The price can vary widely depending on the type of paver, with natural stone being the most expensive and concrete or brick pavers offering a more cost-effective yet durable option.
• Long-term Cost Savings: Pavers are durable and require minimal maintenance, significantly reducing long-term costs. Their ability to withstand various weather conditions without cracking or heaving, as asphalt and concrete can, means less frequent need for repairs or replacement. Additionally, the ease of replacing individual pavers rather than entire sections adds to cost efficiency, particularly in the case of staining or damage.
• Resale Value and Aesthetics: Pavers also enhance a property’s aesthetic appeal, positively impacting resale value. Their sophisticated appearance and customizability improve curb appeal, making them a compelling choice for homeowners investing in their property’s marketability.

5. Environmental Impact

Pavers offer notable environmental benefits over traditional paving materials like concrete or asphalt, making them a more sustainable choice for eco-conscious homeowners.

• Environmental Benefits: Pavers, particularly those made from natural stone or recycled materials, often have a lower environmental impact during production than concrete slabs and asphalt. Many paver manufacturers adhere to environmentally friendly practices, utilising natural or recycled materials that reduce the need for virgin resources and minimise waste.
• Stormwater Management: One of the standout ecological benefits of pavers is their ability to help control stormwater runoff. Permeable pavers allow water to pass through the joints between them and into a specially prepared sub-base that filters the water, reducing runoff and decreasing the risk of flooding. This helps manage water resources more sustainably, reduces the burden on municipal stormwater systems, and mitigates pollution in local waterways.
• Recyclability and Sustainability: Many pavers are recyclable. Once they reach the end of their use in one project, they can be reused in another, further conserving resources and reducing landfill waste. Pavers’ durability also means they must be replaced less frequently than other paving materials, contributing to less frequent material turnover and associated environmental impact.

Read this article about Your Handy Natural Stone Paver Buyer Guide.

Conclusion

Pavers offer unparalleled durability, aesthetic flexibility, and low maintenance, which can enhance property value and curb appeal. 

Are they worth the investment? Absolutely, for many homeowners. 

Consider the specific needs, budget, and environmental priorities outlined in this article to decide if pavers are the right choice for your landscaping projects.

Choosing the right material to fill the gaps between pavers can be confusing, with various options available.

Incorrect or low-quality filler can lead to weed growth, shifting pavers, and premature deterioration, compromising both aesthetics and functionality.

This article explores the best materials for filling paver gaps, from sand to polymeric sand, highlighting their benefits and ideal uses. Learn how to enhance the longevity and appearance of your paver installations effectively.

What Is The Best Material To Put In Between Pavers?

Polymeric sand is the best material to put between pavers. This type of sand contains additives that, when activated with water, bind the sand particles together, creating a durable and flexible joint. It effectively prevents weed growth and insect infestations, maintains alignment, and resists erosion, making it ideal for aesthetic appeal and long-term functionality.

Factors to Consider

When selecting the best material to fill the gaps between pavers, consider these crucial factors:

• Climate Considerations: Material durability can significantly depend on local weather conditions. Choose a filling material that can withstand expansion and contraction without cracking in areas with frequent rain or freeze-thaw cycles. Polymeric sand is excellent for most climates as it binds strongly and resists washout and weed growth.
• Traffic Load: The chosen material must accommodate the expected traffic load. Regular sand may suffice for pedestrian-only paths, offering ease of installation and flexibility. However, driveways or areas with vehicular traffic demand sturdier materials like polymeric sand or crushed stone, which provide better interlock and stability under heavier loads.
• Aesthetic Preferences: The filler material should complement the colour and style of your pavers to enhance the overall design scheme. Polymeric sand comes in various colours, allowing for a seamless look that matches or contrasts with the pavers, depending on your design preferences. Choose a shade that blends in or accentuates the pavers for a visually pleasing effect.

• Ease of Maintenance: Consider how much effort you will invest in maintaining the joint filler over time. While traditional sand might need regular replenishing due to erosion or displacement, polymeric sand, once set, offers a low-maintenance solution as it binds firmly and resists washing away. This reduces the frequency of refilling and maintenance checks.
• Permeability: The permeability of the filler material is vital for areas where drainage is a concern. Non-permeable materials like solid grouting can lead to water pooling and drainage issues. In contrast, permeable fillers like coarse sand or fine gravel allow water to pass through, promoting better drainage and reducing the risk of water damage and instability in the paved area.

Common Materials for Paver Joints

When choosing materials to fill the joints between pavers, selecting the right option can impact your paved surfaces’ durability, appearance, and maintenance.

Here’s a detailed look at everyday materials:

1. Polymeric Sand

Polymeric sand is a sophisticated hardscaping material used to fill the joints between pavers. It consists of fine sand combined with various polymers that, when activated by water, form a durable bond that locks the pavers in place. 

This material is highly favoured for resisting erosion, effectively preventing weed growth, and deterring ants and other pests.

Benefits of Polymeric Sand

• Durability: Once set, polymeric sand forms a firm, non-pliable joint that withstands weather and prevents paver shifting.
• Resistance to Erosion: Unlike regular sand, polymeric sand’s binding polymers keep it from washing out during rainfall.
• Weed and Pest Prevention: The tight bond blocks weeds and discourages insects from inhabiting the joints.

Application Process and Considerations

Applying polymeric sand requires precision. After laying the pavers, the sand is swept into the joints, filling them completely. The surface must then be thoroughly cleaned to remove excess sand. 

Finally, a gentle spray of water activates the polymers, setting the sand. To avoid premature activation, it is crucial to ensure the sand is dry during application and that no rain is forecast for at least 24 hours after application.

Potential Drawbacks or Limitations

While polymeric sand is effective, it is more expensive than traditional sand. If sand residue remains during activation, incorrect application can lead to hazing on the pavers. 

Additionally, it is difficult to remove or adjust once hardened, which can complicate future repairs or adjustments to the paving layout.

2. Regular Sand

Regular sand has long been used as a joint filler between pavers due to its availability and simplicity in application.

It’s a natural material that effectively fills paver joints, creating a flexible and permeable joint that allows for some movement and settling without damaging the pavers.

Pros of Regular Sand

• Cost-Effectiveness: Sand is generally less expensive than other joint filling options, making it a budget-friendly choice for large projects.
• Natural Appearance: Sand maintains a traditional and natural look that blends well with any landscape design. It can also be easily matched with the colour of the pavers to enhance aesthetic coherence.

Cons of Regular Sand

• Susceptibility to Erosion: One of the main drawbacks of sand is its tendency to wash away under heavy rain, requiring frequent top-ups to maintain the integrity of the pavement structure.
• Weed Growth and Pest Intrusion: Sand does not naturally inhibit weeds or pests. If gaps filled with sand are not regularly maintained, they can become breeding grounds for weeds and homes for ants and other insects.
• Shifting: Regular sand does not bind the pavers together; thus, it allows more movement than other materials like polymeric sand. This can lead to uneven surfaces and gaps over time, especially in high-traffic areas.

3. Crushed Stone or Gravel

Crushed stone or gravel is an effective alternative for filling the joints between pavers. It is particularly favoured in projects that require excellent drainage and a rustic aesthetic. 

This material comprises angular, fragmented stones that lock together under compression, providing a stable yet permeable joint solution.

Advantages of Crushed Stone or Gravel

• Drainage Properties: Crushed stone’s coarse nature allows water to filter through easily, making it ideal for areas where water runoff is a concern.
• Stability: Once settled, crushed stone forms a firm bed that helps to prevent the pavers from shifting, adding to the overall stability of the paved surface.
• Permeability: The permeable quality of gravel prevents water accumulation on the surface, which can lead to reduced erosion and less stress on the underlying materials.

Drawbacks of Crushed Stone or Gravel

• Potential for Displacement: While it offers initial stability, gravel can become displaced over time due to traffic or environmental conditions, requiring occasional replenishment.
• Maintenance Requirements: To maintain its effectiveness and appearance, crushed stone may need periodic top-ups and raking to manage displacement and keep the surface level.

4. Mortar

Mortar is a traditional and robust material used to fill the joints between pavers. It consists primarily of cement, sand, and lime. This mixture creates a rigid, inflexible joint ideal for areas requiring a solid, unyielding pavement surface.

Pros of Using Mortar

• Strength: Mortar provides a strong and durable bond that firmly locks pavers, reducing the likelihood of shifting or displacement.
• Permanent Bond: Once cured, mortar creates a permanent joint between pavers, which is particularly advantageous in high-traffic or load-bearing areas, ensuring long-term structural integrity.

Cons of Using Mortar

• Limited Flexibility: The rigid nature of mortar means it lacks the flexibility to absorb movements caused by thermal expansion, soil shifts, or freeze-thaw cycles. This can lead to cracking if the base preparation is not adequately managed.
• Potential for Cracking with Shifting: If the pavers or the ground beneath move due to settling or environmental factors, the inflexible mortar can crack, compromising the pavement’s appearance and structural soundness

Best Practices for Installation and Maintenance

Proper installation and diligent maintenance are crucial for optimal performance and longevity of paver joints. Here’s how to handle different joint materials:

Proper Installation Techniques

• Polymeric Sand: Ensure pavers are dry and no rain is forecasted for 24 hours. Fill joints completely, then sweep excess sand off the pavers to avoid hazing. Activate the polymers with a light mist of water.
• Regular Sand: Fill joints to the top and compact the sand down. After the initial application, it may settle, so a second filling might be necessary after a few weeks of settling.
• Crushed Stone or Gravel: Spread the crushed stone into the joints after placing the pavers. Use a broom to sweep the rocks into the spaces, ensuring they are packed tightly.
• Mortar: Apply the mortar directly into the cleaned joints using a pointing trowel. Strike the mortar to ensure a solid fill and a smooth, finished look.

Maintenance Tips

• Regular Cleaning: Keep the joint areas clean of debris to maintain appearance and prevent organic growth.
• Weed Prevention: Consider using a weed-preventative treatment for sand and gravel or regularly applying natural solutions like vinegar to discourage growth.
• Replenishment: For sand and gravel, adding material periodically as it settles or washes away is often necessary.

Periodic Maintenance and Repairs

• Check for Erosion: Regularly inspect the joints for erosion or washout, especially after heavy rain.
• Repair Cracks Early: For mortar joints, address cracks early to prevent water infiltration and further damage.
• Sealant Application: Consider applying a sealant to polymeric sand joints every two to three years to enhance durability.

Conclusion

Choosing the right material for paver joints—polymeric sand, regular sand, crushed stone, or mortar—is crucial for durability and aesthetics.

 Each material offers unique benefits and challenges, so assess your needs and environmental conditions before deciding.

 Proper selection and installation ensure a long-lasting, beautiful paver installation. 

Don’t rush your choice; it’s the foundation of your project’s success.