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Patios and Walkways
 Pictures
of Brick Paver Samples
Homeowners are getting away from the "Slab look" of poured concrete
and asphalt. Pre-cast concrete pavers and natural stone have gained a
lot of popularity. These materials offer a nearly endless palette of styles,
shapes, sizes, colors, textures and patterns. Like a patchwork quilt,
these materials create a blanket with a staggering array of design opportunities
for the inspired designer and skilled craftsman.
Quilting, tumbling, weaving, layering and soldier courses may sound like
an intricate arts and craft project. In reality, these terms are part
of the designer's vocabulary relating to pavers. Pavers are a versatile
product that has many applications. They can be incorporated into a variety
of classic and unique horizontal landscape functions; from decorative
patios, driveways, walkways, pool decks, steps, fire pits and planter
bed edging.
Pavers are comparable in cost with wood deck installations, and have a
much longer near maintenance free life. Pavers do not rot or warp! However,
they do have a higher initial cost compared to traditional asphalt or
poured concrete...But, they provide a much better value when one
views the higher maintenance and rehabilitation costs of traditional hard
surface or rigid pavements. Pavers have a longer service life, as they
are extremely durable and 2 to 4 times stronger than rigid products. Pavers
out perform all hard surface products and are aesthetically pleasing.
Poured contrete is rated at 3500 PSI because it has a higher water content
and has less density compared to pavers. Pre-cast pavers have a PSI rating
between 7000 and 8000 PSI. In the manufacturing process, pavers are made
in molds, shook and then compressed and slow dried. The paver has much
greater resistance to cracking, chipping, and flaking when exposed to
harsh winter conditions and salting.
Pavers have a much longer life expectance due to this specialized manufacturing
process, material/water content, and installation techniques.
Pavers like cobblestones, provide decades of near maintenance free hardscapes.
Pavers should be installed to industry standards. Our craftsmen are trained
and certified by the ICPI - Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute.
Installation standards require soil subgrade compaction; proper base material
type, thickness, and compaction; proper bedding sand thickness and gradation;
secure edge restraints; pavers with consistent dimensions, joint spacing
and drainage. After joint sanding, the pavers should be compacted twice
and in the correct direction.
Many homeowners are willing to invest in the products, which are more
durable, longer lasting, and create a functional eye-catching surface.
Life cycle casting, and value, justifies the additional cost when compared
to less expensive lower quality and lower value materials. Paver selection
and design can have a much greater impact on aesthetics and value as they
contrast, complement and echo the architectural themes of your home.
Products and Warranties
Suppliers and product information
Unilock, Versa Lok, Alan Block, Fendt, Navastone et al. are the best manufacturers
on the North American Continent.
National Stone Products come from Quarries in Michigan, Ohio, New York
and Canada.
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