It
began in Europe – with charming cobblestone courtyards
and roads. The picture postcard scenes that are so familiar
across the ocean are now becoming backyard (and front
yard!) snapshots all across America. But today’s concrete
interlocking pavers are far superior to their continental
forerunners.
Today the shapes, colors and textures available
are varied enough to complement any landscape plan, from
Victorian to modern. And their strength and durability
guarantee the picture-perfect look for years to come.
Pavers have some very distinct advantages
over concrete:
- They’re more decorative
- They’re stronger
- They are easily picked up and moved
- They withstand Michigan winters without cracking
The pigments cover a wide range from autumn
red to brown, black, tan and gray. And the color permeates
through each paver, so if one does happen to chip, it’s
hard to see.
Although
Tim Allen may want to tackle a paver installation job,
many homeowners would be somewhat intimidated by the process
and the required rental of equipment. Small patios and
pathways could be do-it-yourself projects. For larger
areas – driveways, pool decks, etc., you might want to
check out one of the area’s fine installers.
Interlocking concrete pavers fit together
like pieces of a puzzle, without mortar. A base layer
of crushed stone is first compacted in place using a mechanical
tamper. An inch of coarse sand is added and screeded to
the contour of the finished surface.
The pavers are then placed by hand on top
of the sand and a vibrator is used to firmly seat them,
forcing some sand up into the joints. Sand is then swept
over the top surface, filling the joints between each
paver.
Because
mortar is not used, drainage is not a problem. There is
no "ponding" of water. Unlike concrete paving
that heaves and cracks in the winter, the relatively small
pavers move independently. There is no cracking and maintenance
costs are low.
The initial cost of pavers is indeed more
than concrete and asphalt. However, when you consider
that they last a lifetime, provide unique beauty to homes
and buildings and allow almost unlimited flexibility in
landscaping design, they are an investment well worth
considering.
