Difference
Paver Block
Appearance
The widest range of surface finishes, colors, shapes, and sizes. Laying patterns can compliment the architectural style of any home because of the wide variety of styles available.
Initial cost & Installation
Moderate
Tightly fitted, uniform units are placed over a sand bed and a compacted aggregate base. Imardiately ready for use. Can be installed by homeowner or an ICPI Certified Professional.
Maintenance
Low
Stained or broken pavers can be easily replaced without patches. Dark colored pavers can help hide stains. Factory-rude pavers last for decades.
Winter Durability
High
Small high density units resist cracking as well as damage from freeze-thaw cycles and salts. Payers are stronger than ordinary or stamped concrete.
Snow Removal
Smooth surface allows for easy snow removal. Darker colored payers help melt snow faster. Snow-Telt systems can be easily integrated to eliminate snow and Ice removal
Cobble Stone
Gives elegant, permanent, yet informai “Old World” feel,
Highest
Tightly fitted, uniform units are placed over a sand bed and a compacted aggregate base. Imardiately ready for use. Can be installed by homeowner or an ICPI Certified Professional.
Low
High quality stone lasts for decades. Wide joints may encourage weeds and ants. Rough surface makes walking and driving difficult.
High
High density stone resists cracking and sa its.
Rough surface makes plowing difficult.
Clay Brick
Traditionally corms in shades of red and red-brown. Lirrited shapes and sizes.
Moderate High
Mortar-set base may be used which increases costs. Natural variations in dimensions may slow installation or cause difficulty in maintaining straight pattern lines.
Low
Natural surface variations rnay lead to chipping or possible damage.
Moderate
Salts may cause deterioration in sorre clay pavers.
Smooth surface allows for easy snow removal. Darker colored pavers help melt snow faster.
Stamped Concrete
Surface is usually colored. Patterns designed to give appearance of segmental paving but saw-cut joints may show.
High
Difficult for homeowner to install. Requires special equipment to starrp stone or paver patterns into surface. Surface sealer often used.
Moderate
Cracking mey [Rely develop. Patched repairs may be hard to match to original color. Color fading also possible over titre.
Low
Potential for deterioration from de-icing salts.
Uneven surface of some patterns and textures may make plowing difficult.
Ordinary Concrete
Grey or right brown. Can be colored throughout or on surface only.
Moderate
Difficult for homeowner to install and requires 5 to 7 days for hardening before use. Surface quality varies with weather and installation.
Moderate
Cracking may likely develop. Repairs and replaced sections may leave visib!e patches. Oil stains difficult to remove.
Low
Cracks from freeze-thaw cycles, settlement and salt deterioration may occur.
Smooth initial surface allows for easy removal. Light colored surface may not melt snow rapidly.
Asphalt
Few color options. Achieving neat looking edges may he difficult. ‘ Stamped asphalt appears painted and artificial.
Low
Installs quickly over compacted aggregate base. Must be professionally installed.
High
Wear and weather will break down surface. Black seal coat required every 2-3 years. Rut or pothole repairs leave visible patches. Subject to erosion from oil drippings.
Low
Cracks from freeze-thaw cycles, settlen-ent and salt deterioration may occur.
Smooth surface allows for easy removal. Dark surface accelerates snow melting
Crushed Stone / Gravel
Typically a rustic look, Appearance varies with color and shape of stones.
Low
Dumped and spread over soil (no base required).
High
Scattered stone must be replaced and leveled regularly. Ruts from tires are likely to develop.
High
Stones resist freeze-thaw cycles and salts.
Stones and surface rruy become uneven dieing plowing.
