When homeowners come to us for patio renovation, they usually begin by thinking about big, noticeable features. They usually start by imagining the big features – a gazebo, a fiberglass pool, or even a tennis court. But once we start getting into the details, few decisions affect the overall feel of the space more than choosing the right pavers.

For those who might not know, patio pavers are interlocking blocks we use to make flat, durable spaces. They’re kind of like tiles for the outdoor areas of your home. Pavers can be used on patios themselves, lawn walkways, driveways, and other surfaces. People sometimes say “patio” when what they really mean are pavers made of concrete or another material.

How do you choose the right ones? And what are some things you should think about when making a decision? Those are good questions that are easy to overlook, so let’s run down a few things I think every homeowner should know before they finalize their patio renovation plans.

Choosing the Right Paver Brand Matters for your Patio Renovation

There are materials in our business that are more or less the same from one brand to another. Patio pavers aren’t like that. We proudly feature Belgard products for their appearance, durability, and warranty. In the rare cases we have any issues with their products, the company always stands behind us and does whatever it takes to make things right quickly.

Those kinds of guarantees are valuable. You might be able to save a few dollars by going with lesser brands, but we don’t recommend it. And be particularly wary of any landscaping company that tries to convince you they can use a lesser brand because they have a better relationship. The trade-offs are never worth it.

Paver Installation is Just as Important

Although the focus of this article is on choosing the right pavers, we should probably mention that installation matters a lot. Having the right materials to work with means nothing if you place them in a way that is sloppy or doesn’t fit the overall design scheme.

Naturally, you’ll want your walkways and hard surfaces installed in a safe and level way. A good patio renovation crew will go beyond that and ensure you have clean lines without noticeable gaps. It’s the kind of thing you don’t notice right away, but really separates the best patios from the rest.

Matching Colors and Textures is Critical

If you have some design elements (like a certain type of fence or weather resistant sofa) picked out then it’s important to choose pavers that complement those colors and textures. If you don’t have strong preferences, we recommend going with a neutral option.

As a rule of thumb, your pavers will last longer than furniture or other pieces you end up putting on your patio. So, picking the right aesthetic for them should be one of your first priorities.

Some Pavers Can be Safer Than Others

To be clear, I’m not suggesting that certain types or brands of pavers are unsafe. Instead, I want to point out that you can choose textures that carry less of a slipping risk.

This can be a detail to pay attention to if you have young children or elderly people who will be using your patio frequently. It can also make your outdoor space safer in wet weather.

Consider Cleanliness and Maintenance

The best patio pavers have coatings that make them very easy to clean. They can also protect the underlying stone or concrete from stains. That’s important if you can imagine guests spilling ketchup, red wine, or other common cookout messes – something we see often on new patios.

Even if you didn’t have to worry about stains, maintenance and durability would be considerations. New England is known for big temperature swings. Throughout the year, pavers can expand and contract. They can pick up dirt and moss. You’ll want to choose something that’s easy to keep looking great and will stand up to the elements.

Consider Your Paver in Context of Your Patio Renovation

Even after you consider the points I’ve given, you eventually need to choose the right look and feel for your patio pavers. Samples can be very helpful, but only if you use them in the right way.

Many homeowners hold up small demo blocks and choose the one that looks best. That’s a good start, but it’s even better to view them in different lighting conditions. Take them outside in the morning or the evening, on sunny days and cloudy afternoons. Hold them next to any furniture you’re considering to make sure you have a good match. Consider getting a second or third opinion if you aren’t sure.

In fact, that brings me to one final point.

When in Doubt, Get an Opinion from a Patio Renovation Expert

You’re probably not an expert on patio pavers, and unless you have plenty of free time you might not want to be. But a good landscaping company will have experienced designers and installers who can help you choose the best colors and materials for your space and budget.

Don’t be afraid to ask for guidance or compare multiple samples. It’s a big decision – and one we can help you get right.

Wondering How We Know So Much About Pavers?

I’ll admit I have just given you a lot of information about pavers. Truthfully, I could go on for a lot longer – we could probably fill a dozen posts by taking a deeper dive into paver colors, textures, and materials. That probably wouldn’t be a crowd pleaser, though. Importantly, it would only reinforce the bigger point, which is that these are big decisions that really need to be considered carefully.

The team at Stefano’s Landscaping and Patio Renovation has been building a reputation for 20+ years. During that time we’ve seen a little bit of everything. That’s why we know how important the details are, and what it takes to get them exactly right.

If you want to be sure you’re getting the best design advice and patio installation from the experts, contact Stefano’s today. We’ll be happy to arrange for a free consultation at your home so we can answer any questions and provide you with a detailed quote.