• • • Installation Costs Comparison: Pavers vs. Concrete
    • Repair Costs Comparison: Pavers vs. Concrete
    • Maintenance Costs Comparison: Pavers vs. Concrete
    • Other Benefits of Pavers Over Concrete
    • Which Paving Material Should You Choose?
    • Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re thinking about upgrading your walkway, patio, or driveway, the choice between pavers and concrete can feel overwhelming. It might seem like you’re choosing between 2 things, but there are actually 3 options to consider:

1. Concrete Slabs: The most affordable option, but plain and lacking in visual appeal.
2. Stamped Concrete: Designed to mimic the look of pavers, but it often costs the same—or more—without offering the same benefits.
3. Concrete Pavers: Best for the endless design options, ability to boost property value, and superior slip resistance.

As the top landscape design and build company in San Diego, with over 6,000 5-star reviews, we’re here to help you navigate these options and make the best choice for your outdoor space.

 Pavers vs. Concrete (slabs and stamped concrete): Fast Facts

• Standard concrete slabs are generally lower in cost per square foot than the alternative.
• Typically, you will pay 10%-15% more if you choose paving stones over standard concrete pavers.
• If you decide to upgrade concrete slabs to stamped concrete, paving stones will most likely cost you the same or even less in most cases.
• While a concrete slab is more affordable upfront, the long-term costs for repairs and/or replacements will almost always outweigh the initial savings.
• The most commonly used paving material today are concrete porcelain .

To get a better idea of these specific costs, we are going to compare different costs for each based off a 1,000 square foot area.

Installation Costs Comparison: Pavers vs. Concrete

Pavers: winning on value and longevity

While more expensive upfront, pavers offer better durability, aesthetics, and flexibility for repairs, making them a worthwhile investment in the long run.

Concrete: winning on cost

Concrete slabs are the cheaper option for installation. However, they come with limitations like curing time, susceptibility to cracks, and grading risks.

Paver Installation Costs

The installation of interlocking pavers has multiple factors that help determine the final paver cost. Depending on the material used and your choice of paver installation contractor in San Diego, prices will vary, as will the quality of work.

A quality installation requires excavation, grading, sub-base compaction, geotextile fiber placement, base preparation and compaction, sand leveling, laying the pavers, cutting borders, preparing the bond beam, compacting the stones, and sealing the surface.

FAST FACT: For a 1,000 square foot area, installing pavers will take about five days to complete by a crew of four to five, for about $16,000 total.

When getting an estimate for paver installation, you should expect to pay a minimum of $15 per square foot for a quality paving stone installation.

Since there is no curing time with paving stones, the paver installation is ready to use immediately upon completion. Also, if the grading happened to be slightly off or settling occurred later down the line, the pavers can easily be readjusted to correct the issue by removing them, regrading the problem area and replacing the stones.

Pros:

• Ready to use upon project completion
• Can be easily adjusted

Cons:

• Require a lot of preparation labor

If you want to learn more about the specifics of a paving stone installation, check out our paver installation price guide.

If you would like to calculate the cost of pavers for a specific project, we also have a paver costs calculator.

Concrete Slab Installation Costs

Concrete slabs are a more straightforward and cost-effective installation option, but they come with their own challenges. The process includes excavation, grading, foundation preparation, setting forms, and pouring the concrete. However, concrete requires time to cure, so the area cannot be used immediately.

While concrete slabs are easier to install, they’re less forgiving of mistakes. Improper grading can result in low spots that retain water, causing discoloration or staining. Concrete is also prone to cracking over time due to ground movement, tree roots, or natural aging. Fixing these issues can be expensive and disruptive.

FAST FACT: For a 1,000 square foot area, on average, simple concrete slab installation costs $13 per square foot, totaling approximately $13,000 for 1,000 square feet.

Repair Costs Comparison: Pavers vs. Concrete

Pavers are significantly easier and more affordable to repair compared to concrete. Individual stones can be replaced without major disruptions, and warranties on materials and installation can further reduce long-term costs.

Concrete repairs, while sometimes cheaper for minor fixes, can become expensive and labor-intensive for larger issues, often requiring a complete replacement.

When it comes to repair costs, pavers are the clear winner for both affordability and ease of maintenance.

Paver Repair Costs

Over time, individual paving stones may crack or break, but repairs are simple and affordable thanks to the flexibility of pavers. Individual stones can be replaced without impacting the surrounding area, keeping repair costs low.

Cost: Repairs range from $15 to $125+ depending on whether you DIY or hire a professional.

Warranty: High-quality installations often come with warranties. For example, at Install-It-Direct, we offer:

• A lifetime guarantee on the paving stones we install.
• A two-year warranty on labor and installation.

This ensures long-term peace of mind and reduces potential repair costs.

Concrete Repair Costs

Concrete is less flexible, making repairs more complex and often more expensive. Cracks and holes can sometimes be patched, but significant damage may require replacing the entire slab, which is costly and disruptive.

Cost: Repairs range from $8 to $500+ per repair, depending on the extent of the damage and whether the concrete was installed properly.

Considerations:

• Minor cracks can often be patched, but this is a temporary solution.
• Major damage or poor installation often leads to costly replacements.

Maintenance Costs Comparison: Pavers vs. Concrete

Pavers winning for performance

While both pavers and concrete have comparable maintenance costs, pavers outperform concrete in durability and ease of repair. They’re easier to clean, repairs are less noticeable, and proper care ensures they maintain their look and function for decades longer than concrete.

Concrete may seem easier initially, but over time, cracks, stains, and costly replacements make it less appealing compared to the long-term benefits of pavers.

Paver Maintenance

Pavers are low-maintenance, but the joints between stones may require occasional attention. Professional cleaning and sealing services can help preserve and protect pavers:

• Cost: $1.25 to $1.85 per square foot for professional cleaning and sealing.
• Weeds: While the installation process minimizes weed growth, occasional treatment with weed killer or manual removal may be needed.
• Repairs: If stones shift or settle over time, they can easily be lifted, the base re-compacted, and reset in place. Cracked or damaged stones can be replaced individually, maintaining the visual integrity of the design.
• Longevity: With proper care, pavers can last up to 100 years.

Concrete Maintenance

Concrete is relatively easy to maintain but prone to staining and cracking as it ages. Preventive measures like sealing can help, but repairs are more noticeable and costly compared to pavers:

• Cost: Periodic sealing can help prevent stains, though cracks and staining are common over time.
• Weeds: Weeds may grow through cracks between slabs or in aging cracks, requiring treatment.
• Repairs: Cracks or stains can be spot-treated, but color matching is difficult, making repairs stand out like patches. In some cases, slab replacement may be the only option.
• Longevity: Over time, cracks and wear make concrete less visually appealing, and it often requires replacement before pavers would.

Winner: Both

It’s a tie! Pavers and concrete both have comparable maintenance costs however, pavers are known to look and perform better than concrete over decades.

Other Benefits of Pavers Over Concrete

Durability

Pavers:

• Rated to be 4x stronger than concrete slabs.
• Flexible interlocking design prevents cracking.
• Proper drainage through joints reduces water pooling.
• Backed by lifetime guarantees from most manufacturers.

Concrete Slabs:

• Prone to cracking due to ground movement, temperature changes, and soil instability.

Concrete slabs longevity is greatly affected by the movement of the earth. Slabs are prone to splitting and cracking if the ground beneath it shifts.

The surface of the concrete slab may remain level for a while, but a crack is inevitable once the soil becomes unstable. Additionally, changes in temperature can cause the concrete to expand and contract, which will also result in cracking.

With pavers, water rarely settles on the surface because of the numerous joints in between each piece. With a properly graded installation, drainage issues should never occur. Pavers are rated to be four times as strong as a typical concrete slab, which means they can handle four times as much weight on their surface before they could crack. If you ask how long do pavers last, the answer is that with proper care, they can last for decades, making them a durable choice for any outdoor space.

Most of the manufacturers back up their paving stone products with a Lifetime Guarantee against breaking and cracking, so if a paver should ever fail, you will be covered.

Due to the installation process and their interlocking system, paving stones are extremely flexible and are able to disperse the pressure or weight evenly, which prevents cracking. Some paving materials are stronger than others, but most individual units are less susceptible to breakage, because they are made to move with the earth.

Paving bricks also stand up very well to changes in weather conditions with their ability to expand and contract without cracking.

Differences in Aesthetics

Pavers:

• Wide range of shapes, colors, patterns, and textures for endless design options.
• Authentic look that complements any outdoor space.

Concrete:

• Can be stained, scored, or stamped to mimic pavers.
• Often lacks the customizability and depth of real pavers.
• Stamped concrete is similar in cost to pavers, so it’s worth comparing both.

Pavers come in a vast array of shapes, textures, patterns and colors, making them generally more visually appealing than concrete slabs. There are a lot of patio, driveway, and walkway paver pattern designs that are easily customizable.

However, there are numerous techniques that can be done to transform the appearance of concrete. It can be stained, scored or embedded with decorative stones.

Additionally, stamped concrete is designed to resemble paving stones. Your budget and personal preferences should determine whether you want authentic pavers or a simulated version. If cost is an issue, do not assume that one of these products will automatically be more expensive than the other. Paving stones and stamped concrete are often very close in price, so it is worth getting estimates for both options to help you determine which is right for your project.

Safety

Pavers:

• Non-slip, non-skid surface for safer driveways, patios, and walkways.
• Better traction for vehicles and pedestrians, even when wet.

Concrete:

• Can become slippery when wet, increasing the risk of accidents.

Pavers are manufactured to be non-skid and non-slip. This means vehicles will have better traction on your driveway, which will help prevent tire marks. There is also a reduced risk of slipping on a wet paver patio.

Concrete slabs can often be very slippery when wet. This can cause cars to lose traction and leave tire marks on a newly installed concrete driveway. Additionally, a slippery patio can be very dangerous if someone were to fall on the hard concrete deck.

Resale Value

Pavers:

• Better aesthetics, easier repairs, and improved safety enhance property value.
• Seen as a premium feature by homebuyers.

Concrete:

• Stamped concrete looks better than basic slabs but doesn’t match pavers in overall appeal or durability.

Although stamped concrete can provide a much more pleasant-looking finished product than a basic slab, pavers can be more visually appealing with the plethora of options there are. A beautiful paver project can certainly recur some of the installation costs when selling your home.

Overall, each home buyer is different, but with pavers it comes down to three things previously mentioned: repair costs, aesthetics, and improved safety. Each of these helps to improve the resale value of your home over concrete.

Which Paving Material Should You Choose?

The best way to stamp the image of your home into the minds of your visitors is to create a remarkable first impression. A welcoming walkway or a charming patio will capture the attention and interest of your guests.

In terms of cost, concrete slabs are generally less expensive upfront, but may incur more costs over time as it needs to be repaired or replaced. Stamped concrete and paving stones both have a higher upfront cost than slab concrete. Stamped concrete can have similar issues to slab concrete in terms of staining or cracking, which may incur higher costs over time. Paving stones, which are usually in the same price range as stamped concrete, are easiest to repair or replace if damage occurs over time.

Our Pick: Pavers

With the ease of repairs, timeless appeal, and a variety of design options, pavers can enhance your home for decades. Just make sure you choose the right contractor to ensure quality and durable installation.

If you’re considering pavers for your outdoor space, the right expertise is essential to achieving the best results. Install-It-Direct is a trusted paver installation contractor in San Diego, backed by 25+ years of experience, you can trust that our team will manage a smooth, stress-free project from start to finish.

Paver Cost Calculator

Frequently Asked Questions

How many brick pavers are there per square foot?

With an average paver size of 4” by 8”, an average of 5 pavers could fit within a square foot.

Will concrete or pavers add more value to my home?

In terms of value, paving stones are considered to be one of the only hardscape products that instantly add value to your home upon installation. Given that the paving stones were installed by a quality crew and are compatible with the rest of the property, one can expect a return on investment (ROI) of up to 75% for a paved patio. The ROI will fluctuate based on various factors such as holding period, property value, etc.

In regards to the value of concrete slabs, since many homes use concrete slabs as a paving material, the ROI is minimal.

Is there an added cost for concrete or paver steps?

There may be an added cost to incorporate steps in your concrete or paver install to frame and set the foundation for your steps plus material costs. However, this will depend on the company you outsource the work to.

Which is better, pavers or concrete?

Each option can provide different advantages depending on your needs. Poured concrete slabs are often used for outdoor residential spaces due to their cost and ease of installation. With the development of stamped concrete, homeowners also have options as far as designs and textures are concerned.

Paving stones or brick pavers are individual sections made from various materials like natural stone, concrete or brick. Many of these pieces interlock, which makes for a flexible system that is extremely durable.

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Proper paving stone installation includes several layers of materials and a good polymeric sand to fill the spaces between the pavers. Not all installations include geotextile fabric, but we recommend including geotextile to help limit weed growth, improve drainage and assist in soil stability.

Pavers that have not been installed correctly, particularly if they were not installed using polymeric sand and geotextile fabric, may show significant weed growth coming up through the spaces. However, even with proper installation, dirt and seeds can fall into the spaces between paving stones, which may lead to some weed growth over time.

This guide will walk you through several options for removing weeds between pavers, and then move to how to prevent weeds from growing in the cracks in the future.

1. Boiling water is the best way to remove weeds from pavers.

Boiling water is readily available, cheap, easy, natural, and effective for killing weeds between pavers. It can even kill seeds and roots, which makes it generally more effective (and cheaper) than using some other popular methods, such as vinegar. Boiling water is a non-selective killer, so you will need to make sure you only pour it on unwanted plants.

2. How get rid of weeds between pavers permanently: Pull weeds by hand.

This is the most tedious way to remove existing weeds between pavers, but it is also the most effective and offers the best chance of the weeds not growing back. 

Pulling weeds by hand is the least expensive, least harmful to the environment, and simplest way to remove weeds in cracks.

Two pro-tips:

1. To make it a bit easier to pull them out, wet the area first, since it is easier to pull weeds from damp soil. 
2. It is best to pull weeds before they go to seed so that they do not have a chance to distribute seeds in the cracks and to avoid dropping seeds while you are removing the weeds.

3. Use weeding tools to remove weeds between pavers 

There are several weeding tools designed for weeding in narrow spaces, such as in the cracks between paving stones. Options include Cape Cod weeders, v-notch weeders, soil or kitchen knives (best for particularly narrow spaces), and tools specifically billed as paver weeders available at home improvement centers.

These tools can make the chore of weeding easier and help you pull out more of the taproot, which, when left behind, is one of the main reasons your weeds keep growing back in the same place. 

4. Use baking soda to kill weeds between pavers.

Baking soda can be sprinkled in driveway and patio cracks to kill and prevent weeds. However, you have the same issues you would have with salt, since baking soda is also an indiscriminate killer and can be carried to other parts of your yard through runoff. Also, like salt, baking soda must be regularly reapplied to maintain any weed-killing or preventive effects.

5. Kill patio and driveway weeds with salt.

Salt is an effective way to kill just about any plant, so sprinkling it in your driveway cracks can kill existing weeds and help prevent future weed growth. However, like vinegar, salt can damage your pavers and should be used with caution. It is also important to note that irrigation or rainfall can cause runoff that will carry the salt to other parts of your yard where this indiscriminate killer can kill wanted plants or change the quality of soil to prohibit plant growth.

Also, because rain or irrigation will dissolve and disperse the salt, this is a not a permanent solution and will need to be regularly reapplied.

6. Burn weeds between pavers with a weed torch.

If you feel comfortable using a blowtorch and do not have weeds near flammable plants or structures, a weed torch may be an option for you. You can purchase a torch specifically designed for killing weeds for under $50, so while this is more expensive than most of the natural options on this list, it is still affordable for most homeowners.

7. Weed killers for pavers: Choose an organic herbicide.

There are plenty of herbicides on the market that will kill the weeds growing up through the cracks in your driveway, patio or walkway. Any home or garden store will have several options from which to choose, but most of them will be toxic and are best avoided. 

Chemical-laden herbicides can damage your property, the environment and your health, so, if you are going to get a commercial herbicide, choose an organic one.

When choosing your weed killer, keep in mind that there are both selective and non-selective options. If you want to kill the weeds between pavers without harming nearby, wanted plants, it is best to choose a selective weed killer; however, most organic or natural options are non-selective. This means you will need to be careful to spray it only on weeds that you want to kill.

8. Kill weeds between pavers with vinegar.

Spraying vinegar on the leaves and stems of weeds will kill them, so this is a viable option. However, vinegar in an indiscriminate killer, so it will also kill any wanted plants with which it comes in contact. Using vinegar on paving stone driveways, patios or walkways also comes with the risk of etching the pavers, so you need to use caution when spraying vinegar on paving stone weeds.

This method is most effective when you use 20% acetic vinegar instead of the stuff in your pantry. This strength of vinegar has a higher chance of etching your pavers, so you will need to be even more careful when applying it. You should also protect your eyes and skin when using higher concentrations.

For an extra weed-killing kick, you can add about a teaspoon of dish soap to the spray bottle when you are mixing your vinegar-water solution.

Keep in mind that vinegar does not kill roots, so you will need to stay on top of your weed control with repeated treatments or take additional measures to remove and prevent weeds.

9. Remove weeds with your pressure washer.

Pressure washers can effectively remove weeds between paving stones, but you must use the correct nozzle or attachment to help ensure that you do not damage your pavers. Using a jet nozzle can noticeably etch your patio or driveway, so be sure to switch to your fan nozzle before using your pressure washer to clean your pavers or to remove weeds. 

You will still need to be careful not to push the sand out from around and under your pavers, which can happen when using a pressure washer. You can also use a rotating surface cleaning attachment to remove weeds and clean your hardscapes at the same time.

For more information about killing and preventing weeds throughout your property, check out 17 Natural Ways to Kill Weeds.

How to Prevent Weeds Between Pavers

If you’re dealing with weeds or unwanted plant growth, you might also be wondering how to kill grass and prevent it from growing. Let’s take a look at some helpful tips to prevent weeds between your pavers, so that you can spend less time dealing with weeds and more time enjoying life.

As mentioned above, the best way to limit weed growth is to have your pavers properly installed from the beginning. However, even with professional, proper installation, you may still find weeds popping up between your pavers over time. This is because dirt and seeds can get into the spaces between your paving stones.

One way to limit this is to re-sand your hardscape by pouring polymeric sand between the pavers. Replacing sand that may have been washed, blown or swept away over time can help smother the roots of weeds you just removed and can help keep dirt and seeds from finding their way into the cracks in the future.

For the best results, you should both re-sand and seal your patio, walkway or driveway. If you’re wondering how long do pavers last, it can take up to decades, with proper care and maintenance. While handy homeowners can seal their pavers themselves, you are much more likely to achieve a satisfactory end result if you hire a professional that provides cleaning and sealing services.

There are several steps in the process of cleaning, sanding and sealing paving stones. Some of them are critical, such as watering the polymeric sand the correct amount to avoid issues that come with both overwatering and underwatering. You then need to wait for the sand to set, and then begin the sealing process.

A professional providing clean and seal services can help you choose the right sand and sealer for your pavers and can help ensure that the job is done right! 

If you need help removing weeds between your pavers or looking into upgrading your outdoor space, Install-It-Direct is the best paver installation contractor in San Diego offering expert landscaping services from Bonita to Carlsbad, Poway, and Fallbrook. Schedule your appointment today and get a free design consultation!

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There are several ways to remove moss from pavers and other surfaces, including both natural and not-so-natural options. Here are eight moss removal tricks you can use to keep your paving stones looking beautiful. As an added bonus, these tips for getting rid of moss can also be used on rocks, concrete and bricks. Here are 8 tips on how to get rid of moss:

1. Use Sunlight

The easiest, least expensive and most natural moss removal method is to expose it to sunlight. Move cars and patio furniture, prune nearby trees and shrubs, and let the sunshine in to directly shine on the mold. Moss does not grow in sun-soaked, dry areas, so this may be the only solution you need.

2. Repair Leaks and Check Your Irrigation 

If your moss is caused by a leaky faucet, broken pipe or errant sprinkler heads, make the necessary repairs and adjustments to stop the collection of moisture in the area. This will also put you back in line with San Diego’s and California’s mandatory restrictions for water use, which include immediately repairing leaks and avoiding runoff.

3. Try Boiling Water

Much like weeds growing in driveway cracks, the moss on your paving stone walkway or patio can be tamed by pouring boiling water over it. This is another natural option that will have little to no effect on desirable plants nearby. You will likely need to follow up the boiling water bath with a good scrub with a deck brush or a stiff broom.

4. Apply a Vinegar and Water Mixture

Vinegar is a popular choice for naturally getting rid of unwanted weeds and an also be used to kill moss. When using this natural option, you may find that you need to treat the area multiple times to achieve the desired result. You may also find that vinegar is just not strong enough to fix your moss issue, but it is a good option to try before moving to chemical-based solutions.

To treat your moss with vinegar, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Saturate the area well, while being careful to not get the vinegar on the leaves of desirable plants near the treatment area. Allow the mixture to work into the paving stones and joints for at least 15 minutes, and then use a deck brush or stiff push broom to scrub the area. You can follow this with hosing the area down with water, if needed.

5. Pressure Wash The Area 

Another natural option is to use a power washer to get rid of paving stone moss. This method may or not be effective in ridding you of your moss problem and uses a lot of water, so this should not be the first option you try. If you do opt for power washing, you may need to replace joint sand between your pavers if it is washed away in the process. Cleaning and sealing your pavers is a great way to remove moss and restore the original appearance of your paving stones.

6. Sprinkle Baking Soda 

Baking soda is another natural option that is good to try before moving to chemical means, but may or may not be effective enough on its own. This partly depends on how serious your moss issue is at the time of treatment.

To use baking soda to remove the moss from your paving stone driveway, walkway or patio, sprinkle it generously over the moss. Leave it overnight, and then use a push broom or deck brush to first remove the baking soda, and then to scrub the area to remove the moss.

7. When In Doubt – Use Bleach

As we move away from natural options and into stronger solutions, bleach is one that you can try. If you choose to use bleach to remove moss, be sure to keep children and pets away from the treatment area during and immediately after you treat it. You will also want to be careful not to get bleach on desirable plants and to be very careful when rinsing the area to avoid bleach running off into other areas.

It is best to scrub the area with a deck brush or stiff broom before applying your bleach solution. You can then mix equal parts bleach and water in a spray bottle or larger sprayer and treat the area. Leave the bleach solution on the area for at least 15 minutes, and then scrub the area again and rinse with water.  Whether you use the bleach from your laundry room or a moss-killing bleach you can buy at your local home improvement store or garden center, be sure to wear protective eyewear and gloves when working with bleach.

8. Commercial Moss Killers

When all else fails, it may be time to bring out the bigger guns, which, in this case, are commercial moss killers specifically designed to get rid of moss. There are many options available, including some that are known carcinogens and respiratory irritants. According to Best Moss Killer Reviews: Complete Buyer’s Guide published by Gardenbeast.com, here are a few of the least-toxic, commercial moss killers available:

• Safer Moss & Algae Killer and Surface Cleaner II
• Bayer Advanced 2-in-1 Moss & Algae Killer
• Worry-Free Moss & Algae Control
• St. Gabriel Laboratories Moss Killer

What Causes Moss?

Moss is caused by tiny spores that are carried by moving water or wind. If you spot moss in or around your natural grass or garden area, it’s a sign that your soil’s pH levels are off and your plants and grass aren’t getting the nutrients they need. Even more reason to keep moss from growing in and around your outdoor living spaces. 

How To Prevent Moss From Growing Back

Be sure to keep your paver patio or walkway free from debris such as dirt, standing water or other materials. Additionally, aim to deep clean your pavers every few months with a hose and/or cleaning solution. While wet and humid climates are most susceptible to unwanted moss, moss can grow in arid places like Rancho Bernardo, Encinitas, and Santee, too!

If you have questions or need additional tips for keeping your paving stones moss free, give us a call. You can also join our mailing list to receive landscaping ideas, yard care guides, outdoor entertaining tips and more. Our paver cleaning and sealing services are affordable and comprehensive. Schedule a service with us today!

This blog was originally published in April 2018 and refreshed in December 2021

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Before we get into the patio paver design ideas, it is important to run through the stone selection. Pavers come in various combinations of colors, styles, sizes, thicknesses, patterns, and textures. It’s no wonder that the process of deciding on the exact stone might pose of few challenges.

Identify the Area That You Are Going to Be Working With

You can think of this area as the canvas that you will be painting on or the foundation that you will be building on. You can determine the area with landscape marking paint, landscape marking flags, 100 ft of measuring tape (best if it is the tape that comes in a reel), or even a garden hose will do. Having a visual of the space prior to selecting the stone, will help choose the appropriate stones for your patio.

Paver Texture Options

There are a variety of textures, which include non-tumbled (smooth), tumbled (weathered), embossed (contains dimples on the surface), tumbled & embossed, slate, and flagstone.

Color

The color of the pavestones is important to think of to accent the rest of the features of your outdoor living space and home. The most popular colors are the earth-tones which come in the following colors:

• Sandstone,
• Cream and Brown
• Tan, Buff, and Brown
• Grey and Charcoal
• Limestone
• Terracotta, Cream, and Brown
• Grey, Moss, and Charcoal

Pull Color From Roof

If you want your pavers to complement your house, a good rule of thumb is to pull in the roof color and trim color to provide a nice accent.You can do this by making all of your pavers the same color, or by using it as more of a pop of color here and there.

If you are interested in making a statement, then you will want to go with a dominant color that will draw immediate attention. This can be accomplished with a contrasting color palette and/or bold solids.

Style

Paving stones can come in a variety of styles which include:

• Brick
• Tile
• Antique Cobble
• Weathered Stone
• Old World Cobblestone
• Slate
• Flagstone

There are others, including special order molds, however, this list includes the most popular styles that are currently being installed on a regular basis.

So you have picked out the texture, style, as well as the style of pavestone. The next thing to consider is the laying pattern.

Laying Pattern

As we have seen in the previous steps, there are an overwhelming number of paving patterns that you can select. However, we will focus on the most popular for this guide. The paver patterns that are requested the most are:

• Random “I”
• Runner
• Herringbone
• Ashlar

You can think of everything thus far as selecting our canvas/paint in which we are going to construct our masterpiece… or that we have selected the area we want to build our house and poured the foundation.

Now is the time to get your Creative Juices Flowing…

We are going to go over ways to create unique laying patterns, or to continue with the analogy, to start the construction of our custom home. Let’s get right into the Top 5 Paver Design Ideas for your Patio:

Paver Patio Design Idea #1 – Angles

Angle of the field (think of the “field” as everything inside the border or perimeter). There are two different laying angles in which to lay the pavers. You can go with a 90 degree angle or a 45 degree angle off of any point you choose.

Most installs take the angle off of the point of entry of their backyard patio. You can also utilize both laying patterns in the same project.

For example, you could have your main patio area installed at a 90 degree angle, and then your raised patio area with your fire pit can be installed at a 45 degree angle. This simple idea, can really add a lot of value to your project.

Paver Patio Design Idea #2 – Pattern Inserts

In terms of pattern inserts, the most popular insert is a circle kit or circle design that is inserted into the field. The other popular insert is to insert a different laying pattern into the design to draw attention or accent to another area. For instance, if you insert a different laying pattern where the patio table and chairs are going to be, or a different design inserted around the BBQ Island, Fire-Pit or Outdoor Fireplace.

Paver Patio Design Idea #3 – Borders and Banding/Ribboning

You can go with no borders which we see a lot with the flagstone paver installation (by Old Castle Belgard), or most often we see the use of single, double and triple borders as well as banding used.

Depending on how large the area is, borders can add a significant accent to the project. There are various ways to lay the paver borders and the most common are Soldier, Runner or Random.

Paver Patio Design Idea #4 – Accent Colors

Mixing and matching colors to accent the project can really add a nice finishing touch to the installation.

For example, if the majority of the colors in your patio are cream/brown/charcoal and then you accented the borders with a solid charcoal or even a blended charcoal, this would provide a frame for the project.

If you are interested in a more free flowing feel, then you will not want to use solid colors in the borders, and instead, you will want to maintain a consistent color scheme with both your main field and border colors.

Paver Patio Design Idea #5 – Textures

The most often seen texture design element is to insert a different texture into the border or to insert a completely different texture design element into the pattern.

For instance, if your main laying pattern consists of tumbled pavers, we often see a double border used, where the outside border stone in consistent with the field in that it is also tumbled, however, the inside border stone is a different color and the texture is changed to non-tumbled.

Changing the textures within a project can add a lot of depth and really set your project apart from the vanilla installations.

The Bottom Line

Since there are so many different options to choose from, take your time with this process and have some fun. The last thing you want to do is to make a hasty decision and then regret your selection later.

If you are having a difficult time with this process, solicit the assistance of a professional designer who has been in the industry for many years.

Hope you have fun with the process and remember to come back to share your designs, ideas, and questions!

If you are interested in working with a professional installation business in San Diego, CA, we can help. We provide the best paver installation services in the city and can work with you to create your dream patio. Start now by filling out the form for a free estimate below, or contacting us!

The post Paver Patterns and Design Ideas for Your Patio appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

In most cases, you should be able to remove the stain with products you have at home or that can be easily purchased at your nearest home improvement center. When that is not the case, you can always have your driveway professionally cleaned, or you can simply replace the stained paving stones and get your driveway or patio back to looking as good as new almost immediately.

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you remove grease and oil stains from pavers.

How to Remove Oil + Grease Stains from Concrete Paving Stones

In most cases, you should be able to remove the stain with products you have at home or that can be easily purchased at your nearest home improvement center. When that is not the case, you can always have your driveway professionally cleaned, or you can simply replace the stained paving stones and get your driveway or patio back to looking as good as new almost immediately.

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you remove grease and oil stains from pavers.

Step 1: Soak Up Excess Oil and Grease With A Towel

If you find the spill shortly after it happens, there may still be liquid sitting on the surface of your paving stones. Use paper towels or a rag to soak up as much of the grease or oil as you can.

Step 2: Use Kitty Litter To Soak Up the Rest Of The Grease Or Oil

If you still have a significant amount of oil or grease on pavers, it is time to deploy the kitty litter. Spread conventional, clay-based kitty litter over the stain. Once you have applied the kitty litter, gently push it into the stain to encourage it to soak up more of the liquids. Do not use a wire brush for this; this will scratch your paving stones.

Leave the kitty litter on the oil or grease stain to continue soaking up the liquids. Then remove the cat litter by gently sweeping it up and disposing of it.

Step 3: Scrub the Area with Dish Soap

This is the step that involves dish soap and elbow grease. After removing the kitty litter, scrub the stained area with dish soap, water, and a scrub brush or deck brush. Make sure you do not use wire bristles, since these will scratch your pavers.

Whenever it is possible to use natural options for cleaning products, that is best; however, you may find that a dish soap known for cutting oil and grease – such as Dawn – may provide a more satisfactory end result.

If you have a smaller stain or do not have dish soap on hand, you can use baking soda instead. If using baking soda, you can either sprinkle it over the stain or mix it with water to create a mildly abrasive paste. Either way, apply it to the stain, and then scrub the area with a scrub brush.

Step 4: Spray Down The Area With A Garden Hose

The final step to remove oil from pavers is to simply rinse down the area. The easiest way to do this is to use a garden hose with a nozzle to spray down the area. Using a nozzle will allow you to direct higher-pressure water flow to the spot with the stain. Another option is to use a pressure washer. This option is often used to remove oil from pavers, since it will likely do a better job of removing more of the stain than just a garden hose and water. However, it is easy to damage concrete, brick, or paving stone surfaces with a pressure washer. If you choose to use this option, you will need to be extra careful when directing the spray over the area.

Additional Stain Removal Options

Once the area dries, assess the spot where the stain was and see if you are satisfied with the cleanup or if there is still grease or oil to remove. If the cat litter and dish soap were not enough to remove the stain using these steps, there are stronger options to try.

Oven Cleaner: One option that you might already have at home is oven cleaner. To use this to remove oil from pavers, spray the stain liberally, allow the cleaner to remain on the stained area for 15 to 20 minutes, and then rinse it down. It is important to keep in mind that common oven cleaners have chemicals you should not breathe and should not rinse down your driveway into storm drains, lawns, or flowerbeds.

Degreaser: Another option for cleaning stubborn patio or driveway stains is to purchase a degreaser specifically designed to remove oil from pavers, concrete, or brick. You can find these degreasers at your local hardware store or home improvement center. The instructions may vary some based on the degreaser you purchase, so, if you use this option, follow the instructions on the product to achieve the best results.

Stain Still Not Gone? Have Your Driveway Professionally Cleaned

If commercial degreasers still don’t do the trick, or if you are not comfortable working with degreasers, you can have your driveway professionally cleaned. If you go with this alternative, make sure you choose a contractor familiar with cleaning paving stones. It is particularly important that they know not to use a wire brush and that they know they need to take special care if using a pressure washer.

You might also consider having your pavers sealed after they are professionally cleaned. This can help limit staining in the future.

If all else fails, you can always replace the stained pavers. This is one of the benefits of choosing paving stones over stamped concrete or slab concrete. If concrete driveways or patios are damaged or have stains that cannot be removed, you would have to cut out and replace an entire slab. And, even after making this costly repair, the new section will be clearly visible, since it is nearly impossible to get new concrete to match the color of older concrete. However, with a paver driveway or patio, you can easily have one or more paving stones replaced and no one will even notice. 

So, if you cannot remove oil from pavers, replacing them is always an option. If you’re looking for a reliable service to do the job, Install-It-Direct is the team you can count on. Trusted by homeowners for over 25 years, our paver installation contractors in San Diego make the process easy, delivering a smooth service from your initial consultation to installation.

How to Clean Paving Stones: Further Reading

• Do I Need to Relocate Downspouts for Concrete or Paver Driveways?
• How to Remove Tire Marks from Concrete + Paver Driveways (Step-by-Step Guide)
• How to Remove Mold + Algae from Paving Stones + Bricks + Concrete
• How to Get Rid of Moss from Paver Patios + Driveways + Walkways

The post How to Remove Grease + Oil Stains from Concrete Pavers (Step-by-Step Guide) appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

In this article, we’ll guide you in exploring paver patio ideas that are both innovative and practical to help spark inspiration for your next outdoor living upgrade.

12 Customizable Paver Patio Ideas 

1. Large Format Pavers for Patio

Large format concrete pavers create a sleek, modern look perfect for contemporary homes. These oversized pavers minimize grout lines, making your patio look clean and spacious. Often paired with neutral tones like gray or beige, this design complements minimalist outdoor furniture and lush greenery.

• Best Fit: Modern homes or compact urban spaces.
• Design Tip: Use contrasting gravel or grass between the pavers for added texture and visual interest.

2. Rustic Flagstone-Inspired Paver Patio

Pavers designed to mimic the look of natural flagstone offer the charm of a rustic patio without the high cost of natural stone. These irregularly shaped pavers bring an organic, timeless feel to outdoor spaces and pair beautifully with fire pits and wooden furniture.

• Best Fit: Homes surrounded by greenery or countryside settings.
• Design Tip: Choose earth-toned pavers to blend seamlessly with your landscape.

3. Mediterranean-Style Patio with Warm-Toned Pavers

Terracotta or warm-toned concrete pavers set the stage for a Mediterranean-inspired patio. This design is ideal for creating cozy, inviting spaces with a touch of elegance. Pair with wrought iron furniture and bright cushions for a vibrant yet classic look.

• Best Fit: Sunny climates or spaces seeking a cozy, inviting vibe.
• Design Tip: Add decorative tiles or borders for an extra Mediterranean feel.

4. Traditional Brick Paver Patio in Herringbone Pattern

Brick pavers arranged in a herringbone pattern offer a timeless, elegant look. This classic design works well in traditional or transitional homes and can be enhanced with contrasting borders or edging.

• Best Fit: Transitional or traditional homes.
• Design Tip: Use darker bricks for a more dramatic effect, especially if paired with lighter furniture.

5. Circular Paver Patio with a Central Feature

Circular patios made from rounded or curved pavers create a striking focal point, especially when centered around a fire pit, fountain, or seating area. This design adds charm and is perfect for gathering spaces.

• Best Fit: Large backyards or focal areas.
• Design Tip: Edge the circular design with smaller pavers to enhance its shape.

6. Mixed Material Patio with Paver Borders

Combine pavers with other materials like gravel, wood, or turf to create a dynamic patio with visual interest. For example, a patio with concrete pavers and gravel infill offers a modern yet natural vibe.

• Best Fit: Any outdoor space you want to turn into a creative room.
• Design Tip: Use pavers as the primary material and the others as accents to maintain cohesion.

7. Coastal Patio with Light-Colored Pavers

Light-toned pavers, such as travertine or whitewashed concrete, give patios a breezy, coastal feel. This design reflects light and keeps the area cool, making it perfect for poolside patios or beach-inspired homes.

• Best Fit: Homes near water or spaces aiming for a relaxed atmosphere.
• Design Tip: Add blue and white decor for a nautical touch.

8. Multi-Level Patio with Retaining Wall Features

Paver patios built on multiple levels create distinct zones for dining, lounging, or entertaining. Retaining walls made from matching pavers can double as seating or planters, enhancing functionality and style.

• Best Fit: Sloped yards or large outdoor spaces.
• Design Tip: Light up each level with pathway or recessed lighting for nighttime use.

9. Mosaic-Inspired Paver Patio with Custom Patterns

Create a statement patio using pavers arranged in intricate patterns, like waves, geometric designs, or floral shapes. This bold choice turns your patio into a work of art while offering durability and functionality.

• Best Fit: Any space that you like to turn into a statement piece.
• Design Tip: Incorporate contrasting colors or textures to make the patterns pop.

10. Low-Maintenance Gravel and Paver Combination

Combine large pavers with decorative gravel to create a patio that’s both stylish and easy to maintain. This design is perfect for xeriscaping and pairs well with drought-tolerant plants like succulents.

• Best Fit: Low-maintenance landscapes.
• Design Tip: Use weed barriers under the gravel to keep the patio pristine.

11. Paver Patio with Integrated Garden Beds

Blend nature with design by integrating garden beds directly into the patio layout. Pavers can be arranged to create raised planters or inset areas for greenery, giving your patio a lush, inviting atmosphere.

• Best Fit: Homes with a focus on indoor-outdoor living.
• Design Tip: Use native or low-maintenance plants to ensure the space stays beautiful year-round.

12. Paver Patio with Water Feature

Incorporate a calming water feature like a fountain or small stream directly into your paver patio. This design blends functionality with tranquility, creating a serene outdoor space. Choose heat-resistant pavers to surround the feature and enhance its durability.

• Best Fit: Homes aiming for a tranquil, spa-like outdoor atmosphere.
• Design Tip: Use darker-toned pavers to accentuate the water feature’s reflective surface.

59 Additional Patio Design Ideas to Inspire Your Next Project

If you’re thinking about upgrading your outdoor space and in need of more ideas, there are plenty of other paver patio designs to consider. We’ve put together another set of paver options that you can explore depending on your preferred style, material, and pattern to fit your needs.

Whether you want something sleek and modern or warm and inviting, there’s something here to inspire your next project.

Instructions:​ Click through the buttons below to filter through different styles, colors, and sizes. To view the full image, click on the image itself.

These grey and cream slip-resistant pavers are great for any pool patio area.

Source: Angelus

Replicate the look of a red natural flagstone design with these high quality, low maintenance concrete pavers.

Source: Angelus

The tumbled and rustic look of these stones provide beautiful character to any outdoor living area.

Source: Angelus

Go for a modern look with grey weathered paving stones laid in a runner pattern.

Source: Angelus

Style your patio with a versatile paver, pictured here in an intricate circular pattern.

Source: Angelus

Offset pavers with beautiful stone in between for a unique look.

Source: Angelus

The large paver stones accent the colors in the retaining wall.

Source: Angelus

Show off your patio with darker slate style pavers.

Source: Angelus

Show off your pool patio with classic courtyard styled paving stones.

Source: Angelus

For a versatile look next to an outdoor fireplace, try different colors in a random ashlar pattern.

Source: Angelus

The mix of different paving stone colors and sizes bring this patio together nicely.

Source: Angelus

These natural tuscan style pavers is a beautiful addition to any outdoor space.

Source: Angelus

For a contemporary look, consider large porcelain style pavers.

Source: Belgard

Smooth contemporary paving stones are perfect for a covered patio area.

Source: Belgard

The natural flagstone look lights up beautifully with warm lighting.

Source: Belgard

Showcase your patio with a large and luxurious style paving stone.

Source: Belgard

The unique grey flagstone style pavers, combined with the outdoor kitchen and oven look amazing in this patio design.

Source: Belgard

The vintage cut paving stones bring together this outdoor living space to look like paradise.

Source: Belgard

Multi colored paving stones are a perfect style for many patios.

Source: Belgard

Bring your patio to life with natural slate pavers with a gorgeous textured finish.

Source: Belgard

The embossed paving stones accent the colors in this beautiful outdoor living room.

Source: Belgard

Different colored flagstone style pavers look great next to any softscape design.

Source: Belgard

The large tan colored paving stones give this patio a classic look that is ready for any barbeque.

Source: Belgard

Splashes of color from the smooth paving stones will make you want to spend more time outside.

Source: Belgard

Combine your patio and walkway with gorgeous artisan pavers.

Source: Belgard

Install beautiful pavers that are permeable to eliminate standing water and lower water demand.

Source: Belgard

The grey flagstone style pavers pair well with the other paved hardscape areas of this patio.

Source: Belgard

The beautiful wood patio posts contrast the grey paving stones for this gorgeous view.

Source: Belgard

This outdoor living space is pulled together with the antique and timeless look of the brick pavers.

Source: Belgard

The random pattern of the slate pavers and fun playset make this patio a wonderful space for family time.

Source: Belgard

A patio with clean and crisp lines with a smooth texture is bound to please any guests.

Source: Belgard

Mimicking the look of natural stone, the irregular edges on these pavers were made to impress.

Source: Belgard

Old World cobblestone pavers pull together the entire layout of this patio from the fireplace to the steps.

Source: Belgard

Reminiscent of natural flagstone, these pavers are perfect next to any water feature or pool.

Source: Belgard

Entertain guests with a beautiful patio hardscaped with classic slate pavers.

Source: Belgard

This one of a kind patio area boasts beautiful weathered paving stones with creative pops of color and design.

Source: Belgard

Spice up your patio area with large straight smooth pavers.

Source: Belgard

Opt for a clean patio design with large slate pavers.

Source: Belgard

Cobblestone pavers bring that sense of old-world Europe in this patio.

Source: Belgard

These spaced out cobblestone pavers next to flagstone style pavers contribute to a unique patio design.

Source: Belgard

Multi colored cobblestone pavers with beautiful white columns, make this patio a wonderful place to relax.

Source: Belgard

Cobblestone is a classic old-world style that provides vintage beauty to any patio.

Source: Belgard

A peaceful patio featuring large smooth pavers in an ashlar pattern.

Source: Belgard

An exquisite circular style paver pattern with a magnificent lake view.

Source: Belgard

The unique flagstone style pavers pair beautifully with loose rocks in this patio.

Source: Belgard

An outdoor covered patio with a mix of color from all angles, specifically the weathered paving stones.

Source: Belgard

Beautiful flagstone style patio with a gorgeous lake view.

Source: Belgard

Go for a simple but elegant look with weathered paving stones.

Source: Belgard

If you're looking for a unique circular pattern, try this weathered paving stone design.

Incorporate flagstone pavers into your patio that style well with other hardscape options.

Embossed pavers can brighten up any patio with a variety of earthy colors.

The crystal blue pool and slate paving stones make this patio an outdoor oasis.

Crisp and smooth paving stones pair great with artificial grass and putting greens.

The weathered paving stones pair up nicely with the pillars in this patio.

Guests will surely enjoy your outdoor patio area with large slate pavers that compliment the style of the bar/kitchen.

Wind down with beautiful large pavers around a fire.

A simple and elegant patio with large slate style pavers.

Artificial grass improves the look of any outdoor living space, especially when paired with large smooth pavers.

Weathered pavers matching the aesthetic of an outdoor kitchen create a sophisticated and relaxing environment.

Get Started on Your Paver Patio Project

With so many paver patio options to choose from, you’re sure to find a design that perfectly suits your outdoor space. The key is finding the right combination that matches your vision and meets your needs, so take your time researching paver patio ideas that best suit your needs.

At Install-It-Direct, we specialize in bringing your dream outdoor living space to life, with the help of our expert paver installation contractors across San Diego. With over 25 years of experience, we’ve earned a reputation as the trusted choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their outdoor spaces.

The post 59 Paver Patio Ideas + 12 Customizable Designs for Your Outdoor Space appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

For example, at Install-It-Direct, we screed one inch of bedding sand over the base materials. This bedding sand is not like the sand you enjoy at the beach; rather, it is sharp and angular to lock into the paver joints. Once the pavers are installed, they are compacted down into the bedding sand to bring the sand up between the paving stones and securely interlock them. More sand is added and compacted from the top until the paver joints are completely filled.

You can learn more about the paver installation process here.

Why Is Sand Important When Installing Pavers?

The coarse, jagged nature of bedding sand is an integral component in paver installation. This is the element that holds your pavers in place, allows for proper drainage and compaction, and promotes structural integrity. Without a solid foundation of base and sand, your pavers will sink and shift over time. This will take away from the visual appeal of your patio and driveway, while also creating uneven surfaces and tripping hazards.

Using sand to install pavers serves several purposes:

• Holds pavers in place
• Allows for easier compaction
• Promotes proper drainage
• Makes joints stable
• Provides stability and structural integrity
• Makes it easier to create a flat, even surface
• Allows flexibility to help avoid pavers cracking and shifting
• Is an important part of making pavers interlock

Sand is what helps your patio, walkway or driveway function like a solid surface while, at the same time, being much easier to repair and less likely to need repair. While pavers can be installed without sand, it is not a good idea. Skipping this step will significantly impact the stability of the installation, which will surely sink and shift over time.

How to Screed Paver Sand

Prior to adding your sand layer and screeding, you will need to prepare the base, which will include any necessary excavation, grading, compacting the sub-base, adding the base, and compacting the base. Once you have accomplished this, it is time to add your bedding sand. You will then need to screed the sand, which is the method used to level the surface.

Here is a step-by-step guide for adding sand and screeding before installing your pavers.

1. Set up screed guides.

Once you have compacted the base, set up screed guides. You will need two guides that are set up parallel to each other, on which you will place your screed. You can use PVC pipe, conduit, metal railings, or whatever you might have on hand. Just make sure the rails are the correct height for the depth you want. If you are doing a one-inch layer of bedding sand, you will need rails that are one inch in height. These rails are going to be the guides for your screed, so make sure you measure and place your guides correctly.

2. Add the bedding sand.

Once your screed guides are in place, add one inch of bedding sand on top of the compacted base.

3. Screed the sand.

Set your screed, which can be a 2×4 board or something similar that has a straight edge, on your screed guides. Make sure that your screed is long enough to rest on both guides. Position yourself at the screed between the guides. Slowly back up and pull the screed towards you to level the sand between the guides. Repeat this process until you have leveled the sand for your entire project.

4. Remove the screed guides.

Once you complete screeding your sand, remove the screed guides and use a trowel to fill in the spot where your screed guides were resting.

Once you screed your sand, you will then move on to laying your pavers and completing your project.

Screeding Tips

1. Do not walk on or otherwise disturb the screeded sand.
2. Do not make your layer of sand too thick or it will be too soft and will allow your pavers to shift and sink.
3. For more accurate leveling, move your screed back and forth as you move it along the screed guides.

For more information on how to screed sand or to talk to a design consultant about your paving stone project, call us at (858) 925-3000. One of our design consultants will be happy to answer your questions or provide a free estimate.

The post How to Screed Sand for Pavers appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

If you are planning on installing a slab concrete, stamped concrete or paving stone driveway or patio, drainage is an important consideration. While most of us are aware that proper grading is essential, fewer of us realize that ground-level drainage is only part of the equation. We also need to consider the gutter drainage system collecting water from the roof.

In most cases, particularly when it is not a custom-built house, the roof drainage system consists of gutters that lead to downspouts that release water near the foundation of the house. They often have diverters to direct the water away from the foundation or into a nearby flowerbed.

Water from downspouts is often diverted away from patio areas, but many builders do not pay as much attention when it comes to areas near driveways. This often means that water from downspouts comes out directly onto these hardscapes.

This is a common occurrence and is not necessarily a big issue, but there are a few reasons why you may want to avoid this by relocating downspouts. To begin, downspouts are not always that attractive, so if you are installing a beautiful, new driveway or patio, you may want to relocate the downspouts simply to help ensure the visual appeal of your home’s façade or your outdoor living area.

Excessive water can also cause over-saturation issues on almost any type of pavement and could wear away joint sand between pavers over time. Additionally, if you have ever looked at water collected from a roof in a bucket or rain barrel, you know just how dirty and debris-filled that water can be. If that water comes out of a downspout and onto your driveway or patio, it can leave a mess that you will then have to clean up and, if you are not diligent about cleaning the area, it can lead to staining, particularly on concrete surfaces.

While you may be able to remove these stains, you can always replace joint sand and debris generally requires simply being cleaned up, you can avoid all of this by relocating or rerouting your downspouts to avoid excessive, dirty water being introduced to your driveway or patio.

How to Reroute or Relocate Downspouts

If you are investing in a concrete or paving stone patio or driveway, it is worth spending a bit extra to relocate or reroute your gutter downspouts. This could involve something as simple and inexpensive as installing rain barrels or it could be a more in-depth approach, such as running your drainage under your hardscape.

Here are seven ways you can divert water away from your paving stone or concrete patio or driveway to avoid over-saturation, staining and the need to replace joint sand.

1. Divert downspouts to nearby flowerbeds.

One of the easiest ways to avoid potential issues from gutters is to use diverters to guide the water into a nearby flowerbed or onto your lawn. Diverters and extenders are widely available and handy homeowners can complete this option as a do-it-yourself project.

2. Install rain barrels.

Installing rain barrels requires only minimal rerouting to direct the water from your downspout into the rain barrel. This is another option that you can likely do yourself. One potential issue with rain barrels is that you may not like how they change the look of the front of your home or your outdoor living areas. There are lots of styles and colors available, so shop for options that complement your home’s architecture and landscaping.

3. Install permeable pavers.

You can use permeable pavers for your entire driveway or just in areas that require better drainage. Permeable pavers allow rainwater to filter through or between the stones to return to the soil. This can help avoid runoff and helps return water back to the soil instead of into a storm drain.

Learn more about this paving stone option:

What Are Permeable Pavers?
Permeable Pavers Installation Guide: PRO Tips + Advice

4. Plant a rain garden.

Creative landscaping is a great way to avoid drainage issues while beautifying your yard. Purposefully designed rain gardens can help with this by providing an area where water can be diverted that will foster proper reintroduction of the water into the soil in a timely manner that helps avoid pooling and runoff.

5. Include a dry creek bed in your landscape design.

A dry creek bed can serve two purposes in Southern California gardens. The first purpose, which is most relevant to this discussion, is to provide a place where water from downspouts can be diverted and allowed to slowly filter into the soil as it runs through the creek bed. While achieving this functional purpose when it rains, a dry creek bed can also provide the look and feel of a water feature without actually requiring water. This is a great option for drought-friendly landscape designs.

6. Install a French drain.

These perforated pipes are placed below ground level and are generally disguised by gravel. Water from your downspouts filters through the gravel and into the pipe, which can then deliver your water to rain catchment system or simply away from your hardscapes. One of the bonuses of choosing a French drain is that it can be incorporated into the design of your patio or driveway.

7. Take your drainage underground.

A more expensive – but also more attractive – option is to run the drainage under your patio or driveway to deliver the water to a storm drain, lawn area or drainage swale. This is a common practice and, when done right, can offer an efficient, mostly out-of-sight way to control gutter drainage. There are, however, a few things to consider.

If inexperienced landscapers or hardscape contractors dig down too much to install the drainage pipe or do not install it properly, this can later result in settling. It is also possible that the pipe beneath the hardscape can break, leak or become too clogged with debris to be successfully snaked. If this occurs with a pipe that is installed under a concrete slab or stamped concrete, you will need to remove the concrete to complete repairs. Once you have fixed the drainage issue and repaired the concrete, you can be fairly certain that the repaired area will not match the surrounding, original concrete.

One way to avoid this particular issue is to install a paving stone driveway if you are choosing underground drainage. If a pipe is leaking or damaged, you can simply have the paving stones removed to complete the repair, and then have them put back to have a reconstructed patio or driveway that looks just as it did before.

It is incredibly important that this type of drainage system is properly installed, so this should not be completed as a do-it-yourself project unless you are particularly skilled and knowledgeable about grading and drainage.

The post Do I Need to Relocate Downspouts for Concrete or Paver Driveways? appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

Perhaps one of the most agonizing yet rewarding decisions a homeowner must make when choosing to install pavers is which color(s) to choose.  It’s a good problem to have because it means the odds of finding the perfect pavers for your home environment are high, especially if you implement these helpful tips.

Basic Rules of Thumb When Selecting Paver Color

Belgard pavers suggests selecting hues that harmonize with your home. For example, pavers that are a few shades lighter than your home won’t compete with it, allowing the structure itself to serve as a focal point without confusing the eye.

Brick-colored pavers can warm up a home with wood siding but aren’t really recommended for use with brick homes. Experts believe that mixing a brick home with brick hardscape usually results in too much red. Grey pavers paired with a brick house are a less-overwhelming combination of color.

It’s easy for homeowners to default to natural tone pavers because they blend well with surroundings. However, even natural tones can have hues of pink, yellow, or gray that might be accented by sunlight or water from irrigation overspray. So it’s important to scrutinize pavers with natural tones extremely well to make sure that the color is right for your home. These colors are trending at the moment because they are reminiscent of beach or desert tranquility and, therefore, conjure up feelings of being on vacation.

Consider the Effect Are You Trying to Achieve

Are you adding pavers to a zen garden and need a muted, tranquil feel? Non-tumbled pavers in natural or grey tones with clean lines might be your answer. Do you want to create a vibrant space with lots of color and energy? Look into patterns that can be set into your driveway or patio. Is your taste modern or perhaps more rustic? Rustic means that tumbled pavers with uneven edges and colors may suit your look best.

If you want to make an area feel larger, light-colored pavers will do the trick because they reflect light. On the contrary, dark-colored pavers tend to make spaces look and feel smaller because they absorb light.

Consider Sunlight

Paver color can change depending on the amount of sunlight that hits it. Check the area throughout the day in bright sunlight, filtered sunlight and even at night when landscape lights shine on the pavers. If the area is completely shaded, you may want to opt for light-colored pavers which will lighten the area.

And, should you live in a hot climate, you may want to consider how hot the paving stones may get, especially if they will be near a pool where kids might be walking around outside with bare feet.

Monotone or Multicolored?

A monotone paver installation means that the color chosen is pure and without any variation. It’s usually modern and sleek but the problem is that this choice will show both large and small stains that may catch your likely-fussed eye nearly every time you gaze at the surface. When it comes to driveways, oil stains and tire marks are inevitable. In the backyard, spills from barbecue grease stains, bird droppings and other potential stains are also likely. Think about how much a stain or two will bother you. (But rest assured that one of the benefits of interlocking pavers is that your contractor can easily remove and replace them.)

If stains will bother you and replacing pavers each time a stain occurs isn’t in the cards, multicolored pavers are the way to go. These pavers usually have two or more variations in color and tend to hide stains very well. And, because multicolored pavers obviously have more colors in them, they tend to blend more seamlessly into existing environments.

Matching Pavers to Roof Color

Some experts believe that matching the color of walkway, driveway and patio pavers to the color of your home’s roof is the way to go because this strategy ties colors together. The colors don’t need to match exactly but should have the same hues. Look at pictures online and homes in person to determine whether or not this strategy appeals to you.

Consider What You Might Be Able to Change

Often times, homeowners fall in love with a paver color first that may not exactly match the home’s exterior. Take a look around and see if you can tie in the color by repainting window shutters, changing rain gutters and downspouts, switching the front door color or by refreshing other accents.

Paver Textures Affect Color

Smooth surfaces are best for areas with continual traffic like walkways but that doesn’t mean you can’t line them with textured pavers to create visual interest. Pavers with rough or jagged surfaces can be used wherever a little traction might be required, such as near a pool, or in areas where people aren’t often walking. Textured pavers have more color variation because the varying surface height, albeit small, can create tiny shadowing causing the pavers to perhaps appear darker or lighter in spots than under bright light in a retailer.

Tumbled pavers are the most commonly available these days. They go through an extra process of actually tumbling in a rotating drum that wears down sharp edges, creates color variation and gives them a more natural, rustic look. But, this means that joints in between the pavers are typically larger than those between untumbled pavers, subjecting them to more weeds, the need to fill the joints with more sand over time as well as a higher price tag because of the extra processing.

Note that most tumbled and textured pavers are ADA compliant these days but it doesn’t hurt to verify this prior to purchasing.

Ask for Samples and Examples

It is highly recommended that homeowners ask their installer for multiple samples to lay out and live for a while with before officially choosing a paver color. Be sure to ask for a variety of options so that you can examine the hues in each paver combination. Though it may take additional effort, try to have a look at a large scale installation of the paver color you like to further understand what your outdoor living space will look like.

The post Paver Colors: How to Choose the Right Color of Pavers for Your Home appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

The durability and longevity of hardscapes allow us to enjoy our driveways, walkways, and patios long after they are installed. While there are significant differences between hardscape options when it comes to their longevity and in regards to how expensive it is to repair or replace them once damaged, hardscapes like paving stones, concrete, and bricks are relatively similar when it comes to cleaning and maintenance.

For the most part, cleaning this type of hardscape can be accomplished with a broom or a garden hose. Either of these options can be used to easily remove most dirt and debris and is usually enough when you do this regularly as part of your maintenance schedule to keep your outdoor living areas clean and functioning properly. Of course, some areas that are prone to drought do not allow rinsing down concrete driveways or paver patios unless there is a health or safety concern that requires it. This is usually fine, though, since sweeping your hardscapes with a broom is usually going to get the job done just fine.

However, there are going to be times when a broom is not going to get the job done – and neither is a garden hose. Oil stains, mold, algae, and grease are all things that cannot easily be removed by sweeping them away with a broom or rinsing them down with a hose. When this is the case, most folks are going to automatically turn to pressure washing pavers, concrete, or bricks for a fast, easy way to get hard surfaces clean.

There are pros and cons to opting for pressure washing for your hardscapes. First and foremost, pressure washers are effective. They are also appealing to folks who do not like to use soaps or detergents. You can use cleaning products with a pressure washer, but you can often achieve satisfactory results without them. This is a plus for folks who do not like to use chemicals.

Another benefit of using a pressure washer is that you can save water. While pressure washing does use water and might not be the best choice when we are trying to overcome severe drought conditions, you do save water when you go with pressure washing instead of a garden hose when cleaning hard surfaces.

Can Pressure Washing Damage Concrete, Bricks, or Pavers?

Before we go into how to pressure wash hardscapes, we need to first address the downsides of choosing this cleaning method.

If you want to increase your home’s curb appeal quickly, easily, and without spending much money, cleaning your hardscapes is a great way to achieve this. You will see even more of a difference if your hardscapes have algae or mold growing on them or if it has been some time since their last cleaning.

Pressure washing pavers, bricks, and concrete is a popular method for cleaning them. Power washers are easy to find for rent or purchase, and almost anyone can figure out how to turn one on, aim it, and pull the trigger.

While it is easy to learn the basics, pressure washers are powerful machines that can easily damage property or cause bodily harm when used incorrectly. There are plenty of pressure washing horror stories that center on a well-meaning homeowner accidentally damaging their wood deck, stripping the paint off of their house, destroying the paint job on their car, ripping shingles off their roof or siding off the side of the house, and even causing serious injuries to themselves or others.

This is the main downside of using a power washer.

Pressure washing, on its own, is not the problem; the problem is that it is very easy for an inexperienced homeowner to choose the wrong nozzle, use higher pressure than they should, or not understand just how powerful the stream of pressurized water coming out of the power washer can be.

When pressure washing pavers, bricks, or concrete, these mistakes can cause visible damage, such as pitting, lines, or general surface degradation. Another common issue from improper power washing is damaging the mortar between bricks or dispersing the joint sand between pavers. When pressure washing concrete, you need to be particularly careful with slabs poured less than a year ago, since they are more likely to be damaged than older slabs.

How to Pressure Wash Concrete, Bricks, and Pavers

Damage caused by pressure washers is usually the result of choosing the wrong nozzle, using higher pressure than the task calls for, holding the wand too close to the hardscape surface, or directing the spray at one spot for too long.

To avoid these issues, follow this step-by-step guide to help you clean your hardscapes without damaging them.

Step 1: Try Other Methods First

Before resorting to a power washer, try cleaning your hardscapes using methods with less potential for damage. If you are considering pressure washing, you are probably beyond the stage where a broom can help, so start with a garden hose. Use a nozzle to direct the spray and see if the stream of water is pressurized enough to clean the area in question.

If this does not work, it might be helpful to read some of our other guides that give step-by-step instructions for concrete, brick, and paver washing without using a power washer. Here are a few that offer tips for specific cleaning needs:

• How to Remove Grease + Oil Stains from Concrete Pavers (Step-by-Step Guide)
• How to Remove Mold + Algae from Paving Stones + Bricks + Concrete {Guide + Tips}
• How to Remove Tire Marks from Concrete + Paver Driveways (Step-by-Step Guide)
• How to Get Rid of Moss from Paver Patios + Driveways + Walkways {Guide + Tips}
• Concrete Stain Removal: How to Remove 15 Common Outdoor Stains

Step 2: Choose the Right Equipment

If the above tips do not work and you do need to use a power washer, make sure you choose the right equipment for the job. Choose a pressure washer with between three and four gallons per minute (gpm) at a pressure of 3,000 pounds per square inch (psi).

Choose a nozzle that allows for a wide angle and avoid nozzles that result in a narrow stream of water.

It is true that a different nozzle or a higher psi might help you get the job done faster, but the damage this can cause is not worth the time you might save.

Step 3: Practice

Before you go near your hardscapes with a pressure washer, you should first practice with it in dirt or another surface that will not be damaged. Practice using a sweeping motion, holding the nozzle at least one foot from the surface, and spraying at an angle.

This will allow you to get a feel for the pressure washer and how powerful the spray is before you start using it on your patio or driveway.

Once you feel like you have perfected your technique, try it out in an inconspicuous area on your hardscape surface before starting to clean areas that are more visible.

Step 4: Clean Your Hardscape

Hold the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the hardscape surface at all times. Never point the sprayer directly at the surface. Instead, always spray at an angle. Use a sweeping motion to clean the area, and do not linger in one spot for too long.

If you are using only water to clean the surface and there is no grease or oil being removed, you can direct the spray towards a natural grass lawn or flowerbed. If you are using detergents to clean your hardscapes or are using a pressure washer to remove grease or oil, direct the runoff to a dirt or gravel area and be sure to keep the runoff away from your lawn, plants, and storm drains.

Tips for Concrete, Brick, or Paver Washing Without Damage

To further reduce the potential for damaging your hardscapes, you may want to consider renting or buying a surface cleaner attachment, which directs jets of water to clean hard surfaces but does not have the same potential for causing damage as a pressure washer.

If you are power washing paving stones, avoid directly spraying the joints between the pavers as this can wash away the sand. If this occurs, you will need to replace the joint sand to maintain the integrity of the installation.

If your hardscapes are particularly dirty or you just feel strongly about using a pressure washer to clean them, the best course of action is to hire a professional who has experience power washing your particular hardscape. This is the surest way to avoid damage and the potential for costly repairs.

It is particularly important to avoid damage if you have concrete or brick hardscapes. Concrete can be repaired and sections can be replaced, but these repairs are always noticeable, since it is nearly impossible to match the color of new concrete to the color of existing concrete. A brick patio or driveway can also be repaired, but it can be costly to remove mortar and damaged bricks and can be very difficult to match the new section to what is already there.

If you happen to damage your paving stones with a pressure washer, the pavers that are damaged can be easily removed and replaced, due to the manner in which paving stones zip together during installation. Your installer can simply unzip the paving stones, replace the damaged pavers, and put your patio or driveway back together. 

The post Can Pressure Washing Damage Concrete + Pavers + Bricks? appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

Do you have clay based soils or silt based soils in your yard and are worried about the long term durability of your new paving stone patio or driveway. There is an easy solution to this challenge; install geotextile fabric or what is commonly known as filter fabric.

Filter fabric is designed to separate the base material from the underlying soils. Southern California soils commonly are clay or silt based.  Over time and especially during rains,  the native soils could eventually mix with the compacted class II base material and eventually weaken the paving system.

If you do not have clay based soils or silt then this will not be a challenge for you. For a minimal investment filter fabric is a great addition to your project.

The post What Is Geotextile Fabric And Should It Be Included In Your Paver Installation? appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

Poured concrete and paving stones differ in many ways, including durability, skid resistance and the capacity to increase the value of your home. However, they are similar in one: They are both porous materials that can stain or become discolored from tire marks. Sealers can help, but skid marks and tire scuffs can occur on any of the popular driveway materials, including concrete, bricks, natural stone and pavers. They can even occur on asphalt; however, tire marks are generally not as noticeable on asphalt driveways.

If you have unsightly tire marks on your driveway that are taking away from your home’s visual appeal, this guide will help you remove the marks and bring your driveway back to its former luster.

Before we go into how to remove skid marks and tire scuffs from concrete and paving stones, we need to address a few things you should not use or do.

1. Do not use a wire brush.

Stiff, metal wire brushes can leave noticeable marks on any type of stone, paver or concrete surface. These will normally look like scratches or scrapes and will detract from the appearance of your driveway.

2. Do not use bleach.

Bleach is not an environmentally friendly option, particularly if you will be rinsing down your driveway after cleaning it, which could introduce the bleach into surrounding soil, groundwater or storm drains. It is also not a good idea to use bleach on colored concrete, because it may discolor the area in which the bleach was used.

3. Avoid harsh chemicals.

Concrete cleaners made from harsh chemicals may remove stains and marks effectively, but they can also discolor or damage concrete or stone surfaces. Using a strong solvent or other chemicals on a sealed driveway can also degrade or strip the sealer.

4. Do not let the mark sit any longer than necessary.

While it is not impossible to remove older stains, it is much easier to remove marks, scuffs and other discolorations soon after they occur.

How to Remove Tire Marks from Concrete and Paving Stones

Removing Tire Marks Step 1: Before moving to harsher solutions, the first thing you should do is try removing tire marks with water and a bristle brush or broom. In some cases, this will be enough to get the job done and will save you from spending money on commercial cleaners or having to worry about rinsing those cleaners into your landscaping or a storm drain.

Removing Tire Marks Step 2: If plain water does not work, the next step is to try a mixture of dish soap and water. Dish soaps with mild degreasing qualities can help lift the mark from the concrete without harsh chemicals. After applying your mixture of dish soap and water, scrub the area with a bristle brush (e.g. a deck brush), and then rinse with water.

Removing Tire Marks Step 3: If neither of the above solutions works to remove tire marks from your driveway, you can opt for a commercial degreaser designed for use in removing stains from concrete and paving stones. If you go this route, follow the directions provided by the manufacturer, wear eye and skin protection, and try to avoid rinsing the degreaser into nearby soil or gutters that drain into waterways. It is generally considered a good idea to try to stick with water or a mild dish soap if your driveway is sealed.

It is also possible to try to remove the marks with a pressure washer; however, this should either be left to a professional or done very carefully. Be sure to test this method out in an inconspicuous area first, since improper pressure washing can cause significant damage. If the pressure is too high or if you do not continuously move the pressure washer wand, it can leave unsightly marks on your driveway. Also keep in mind that using a pressure washer on paving stones may dislodge the joint sand, which will need to be replaced.

One of the many advantages of having a paving stone driveway is that stained pavers can be removed and replaced without affecting the overall look of your driveway if stain removal methods are not effective. This is not possible with poured or stamped concrete.

How to Prevent Tire Marks and Skid Marks on Concrete and Paving Stones

Have you ever noticed how some driveways seem to be more susceptible to tire marks than others? This is largely due to the use of different sealers. Tires have plasticizers that leach from the rubber when it gets hot. This interacts with different sealers in different ways. For example, if your driveway seems particularly susceptible to getting tire marks, you may have an acrylic sealer with a lower level of cross linking. Resealing it with an epoxy or polyurethane sealer with a higher level of cross linking may help prevent future tire marks.

Further Reading

• Concrete Stain Removal: How to Remove 15 Common Outdoor Stains
• How to Remove Mold + Algae from Paving Stones + Bricks + Concrete {Guide + Tips}
• Stamped Concrete vs. Paving Stones: 8 Considerations to Help You Choose
• Stamped Concrete vs. Pavers Cost Guide {Driveway + Patio}

Photo Credits (in order of appearance): morgueFile, Alvimann; morgueFile, DuBoix

The post How to Remove Tire Marks from Concrete + Paver Driveways (Step-by-Step Guide) appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

So you’ve decided to go with pavers, or you’re about to make the decision, or…darn! you just don’t know. You’ve heard so much about the pros and cons that you’re confused.

We understand. Our customers felt the same way before their pavers were installed, too. We spent some time answering their concerns before they made the ultimate decision, and turns out, there was quite a bit of false information out there that needed clarification.

Here are the top ten misconceptions we heard the most often from our customers. Maybe the real scoop will help you decide whether or not to go with pavers yourself.

1. Pavers don’t last long.

Paving stones or brick pavers are individual sections made from various materials like natural stone, concrete or brick. Many of these pieces interlock, which makes for a flexible system that is extremely durable. Compared to outdoor building options such as concrete and asphalt, stone paving is just as durable. Also, interlocking pavers move and flex as the ground does, and aren’t as likely to crack. And, paver materials are up to three times stronger than a poured concrete slab. The pavers Install-it-Direct uses are manufactured to incredibly high standards and come with a lifetime guarantee against breaking and cracking, so longevity isn’t an issue.

2. Pavers become uneven.

If the paver base is installed properly, pavers won’t shift much over their lifetime. In fact, paving stones require enough installation preparation that uneven pavers are very rarely a problem, The installation process includes excavation, grading, sub-base compaction, geotextile fiber installation, base preparation, base compaction, sand preparation, paver laying, border cutting, bond beam preparation, and stone compaction.

If grading happens to be a little off or if settling occurs after installation, pavers can be easily readjusted by removing the pavers, regrading the problem area, and replacing the pavers.

3. Pavers aren’t good pool decking material.

If you have a pool deck or are in the process of installing a new pool, then you know all the pipes and so on that lie underneath the surface. Imagine that a pipe breaks or the skimmer needs to be replaced and your deck is made with a rigid surface like concrete. In this case, you will have to saw-cut the area and then re-pour the concrete in an attempt to match the older concrete. With pavers, repairs are as easy as lifting the pavers, fixing the problem, and replacing the pavers. Another important factor to consider is that pavers are non-skid and non-slip, which is very important around pool decks.

4. Pavers come in limited color choices.

Pavers come in hundreds of different combinations of colors, styles, sizes, thicknesses, patterns, and textures, so you can customize a design that integrates with your home’s aesthetics and your personal taste.

The most popular colors tend to be earth tones like sandstone, cream/brown, tan/buff/brown, grey/charcoal, limestone, cream/brown, and grey/moss/charcoal, but if you are interested in making a statement, dominant colors such as reds and terracottas are also available.

A good rule of thumb is to pull in the roof color and trim of the house in your paver color as an accent.

To further design your own look, paving stones also come in a variety of styles which include brick, tile, antique cobble, weathered stone, and flagstone.

The sky truly is the limit when it come to the versatility of paver design.

5. Pavers’ color fades.

Most quality pavers are colored throughout the thickness of the paver, so color fading is not a common occurrence. Also, according to manufacturer Belgard Pavers, “Because pavers are colored with oxides, and their coloration is consistent and congruent throughout the entire stone, their fade factor is negligible. This means that the color of the stones on day one will be the same color year after year.”

6. Pavers are hard to repair.

Because pavestones consist of individual interlocking stones, each unit can be replaced as needed. When one paver becomes damaged the interlocking system allows you to easily remove only that piece and replace it with a new one. This is a lot less expensive option than replacing an entire slab of concrete.

Another advantage is that if you should ever need to get access to underground utilities or fix a leaking drain-line, you can do so relatively easily. The stones can be removed, the problem area can then be addressed and then the pavers can be replaced without even knowing there was a problem.

7. Weeds grow more often around pavers.

Pavers don’t encourage weed growth because pavers used outside are installed with joint sand or other material that doesn’t leave space for weeds to grow. The weeds homeowners might notice are a result of seeds that fall on top of the pavers and germinate. It’s also of utmost importance have your pavers installed by a reputable contractor so they stay put and don’t become loose, allowing germinating seeds to settle between newly exposed cracks.

To keep your pavers free of weeds, sweep your pavers and their cracks often so dirt doesn’t settle allowing fallen seeds to grow into weeds. You can also use a weed killer designed for paved areas and apply a sealant to prevent weeds from growing on the sand between joints.

8. Pavers aren’t strong enough to withstand parked cars, etc.

Pavers can withstand at least 8,000 pounds of pressure per square inch before material failure. As previously mentioned, this makes pavers about four times stronger than poured concrete. Pavers are also designed to transfer load stress over large areas, which allows for heavier weight and traffic in areas that normally would require heavily reinforced concrete.

In addition, due to the installation process and their interlocking system, paving stones are extremely flexible and are able to disperse the pressure or weight evenly, which prevents cracking.

Some paving materials are stronger than others, but most individual units are less susceptible to breakage because they are made to move with the earth.

Paving bricks also stand up very well to changes in the weather conditions with their ability to expand and contract without cracking.

9. Pavers are too expensive.

Typically, the standard stones run anywhere from $2.67/sq. ft. plus tax to $3.35/sq. ft. plus tax, all depending on which manufacturer you choose. Given the value of good quality pavers, they are an excellent value for money. It’s important to also keep in mind that landscaping can increase your home’s value by up to 15 percent.

That said, there are many variables to consider when estimating a paver installation, and below are some factors that impact the cost:

• Paving stone manufacturer
• Paving stone type
• Accessibility (for instance, if the job requires Bobcat access)
• City permits
• Type of demolition required
• Extras (wall build, step build, drainage, sealer, etc.)

Based on a typical 1,000-sq.ft. residential driveway, then estimated range for installation is $9,900-$13,900.

10. Anyone can install pavers.

Install-it-Direct installation goes through a 72-point inspection to ensure there are no problems and that every job meets our high standards of excellence. Be sure that whoever you choose to install your pavers implements a similar quality process.

Final Thoughts

As with anything, there are pros and cons. Consult or paver primer to learn more about pavers as an option for your landscaping. For more information, check out our Ultimate Paver Resource Guide.

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Sidewalk chalk provides a fun, inexpensive way to spend an afternoon creating outdoor art with your kids. It encourages creativity, sparks their imagination and can even be educational. However, when the art session is over and the kids have moved on to other activities, you are stuck with trying to figure out how to remove their precious artwork – after taking plenty of pictures, of course.

The intention behind the creation of sidewalk chalk was that this art medium would simply wash away with the first good rain. But, as the song says, it never rains in Southern California, so you might be enjoying your children’s artwork for a long time before any rain could potentially wash it away.

If the chalk art is on a concrete patio in your backyard, you might not mind keeping it around for a while, but if it is on your beautiful paving stone driveway where it is seen by guests or passersby, you might eventually want to remove it. And, of course, you may also need to remove sidewalk chalk from paving stones or concrete in order to make room for your child’s next bit of creative expression.

This post will focus on how to remove sidewalk chalk from paving stones, but if you happen to have concrete, asphalt or brick patios, sidewalks or driveways that have also been decorated with chalk, these tips will work on these surfaces as well.

And, since kids who have grown up using sidewalk chalk have learned that it is okay to draw on the driveway and might accidentally use regular crayons for their artwork at some point, we will also go over how to remove crayon marks from paving stones.

How to Remove Sidewalk Chalk from Paving Stones

The theory behind sidewalk chalk is that it can be fairly easily removed with a good rainfall. Working from this logic, it would make sense that a garden hose should remove chalk just as well as rain. Therefore, the first thing to try is simply spraying down the surface with a garden hose and nozzle that will direct the water for a stronger spray. This should remove most of the chalk, but you will likely notice that the chalk that got into the pores and small crevices in your paving stones, concrete or bricks is not so easily removed.

Crayola, one of the top manufacturers of sidewalk chalk, has tested out stain removal involving each of their products on all sorts of surfaces. For how to remove sidewalk chalk from asphalt, concrete, cement and masonry (which will also work for paving stones), Crayola recommends using a brush and water to scrub the area. While Crayola does not note the type of brush that should be used, you should never use a wire brush on concrete, paving stones or bricks, since it could score the surface. Use a regular scrub brush or deck brush for this project.

If a few cycles of scrubbing and rinsing does not remove the sidewalk chalk, use a mild, abrasive cleanser with your brush to scrub the area. Crayola recommends Soft Scrub, since that product did well in their laboratory trials. Another option is to mix baking soda and water to create a mildly abrasive paste.

Crayola also notes that the colorants used in sidewalk chalk may be more readily absorbed by the open pores in newly poured concrete slabs, so you may want to avoid using chalk on any recently poured, concrete patios, sidewalks or driveways.

How to Remove Crayon from Paving Stones

While sidewalk chalk was specifically created for use on concrete, asphalt and similar surfaces, crayons were not. But, unfortunately, this does not mean that your kids will never accidentally grab their crayons instead of their chalk when they head outside to draw on your driveway.

If their latest masterpiece happens to be in crayon, it is going to be a bit more work to remove, but it is possible.

Here is your step-by-step guide to remove crayon from paving stones, concrete and bricks:

1. Hose down the area.

2. Apply liquid dish soap (Crayola recommends Dawn or Joy), and scrub in a circular motion with a scrub brush.

3. Rinse the area with water.

At this point, you may notice that the crayon marks have gotten lighter, but they will most likely not be gone.

4. While the area is still wet, apply a cleanser (Crayola recommends Kaboom) and continue to scrub the area. You can scrub the area off and on for up to 30 minutes.

5. Rinse the area with water.

6. If the crayon marks are still visible after your paving stones or concrete has dried, try dabbing Goof Off on the area and using paper towels to blot it up.

7. Rinse with water.

You may have to repeat this process more than once to completely remove crayon marks from pavers, concrete or bricks.

If all else fails and the crayon marks can still be seen, keep in mind that you can always schedule professional paver cleaning services, or remove and replace one or more paving stones without having to redo your entire driveway or patio. This is not the case with concrete slabs or bricks, but it is one of the many benefits of choosing paving stones for your home improvement projects.

The post How to Remove Sidewalk Chalk + Crayon Marks from Pavers (Guide) appeared first on INSTALL-IT-DIRECT.

If you’re tired of looking at your drab…

…lackluster pool area,

consider adding a beautiful pool deck.

Installing a deck around your pool can create a striking focal point for your yard.

Whether you have a unique pool shape or the traditional oval or rectangle, adding pavers will improve the overall look of your backyard landscape.

There is a vast assortment of materials to choose from, and each type of paving stone offers a different benefit.

No swimming area is complete without a pool deck. A deck can provide an attractive and safe zone for your family and friends to enjoy.

You have plenty of options when it comes to designs, which means you don’t have to settle for the dull, dreary, gray concrete traditionally seen around older pools. By simply adding a walkway to your pool area, you can create an appealing, interesting and welcoming environment.

Factors to Consider Before Installing Your Deck

Appearance, safety, sturdiness, cost and maintenance are all important considerations when it comes to choosing your deck materials.

Regardless of whether you choose paving stones or another type of material, you should factor in your personal needs and requirements. Deck materials come in a large range of prices, and some options are more cost-effective than others.

The main types of pool deck materials are:

• concrete
• brick
• natural stone
• pavers
• tile
• wood or composite

Tile, wood and composite decks are not as convenient as concrete, brick or stone varieties, and they can be more difficult to maintain. Wood often needs to be cleaned with a pressure hose, and it may need to be stained or painted frequently.

Tile decks are beautiful and elegant, but they require regular upkeep at the grout lines. Wood composite can be hot, which makes it inconvenient for placement around a pool.

Factor in how much space you want to cover as well. If you merely want a small pathway around the pool, you will need considerably less square footage than if you want a lounging area where you can soak up the rays.

Your deck should also enhance the aesthetics of your landscape. After installing a large amount of synthetic turf, you may want to preserve the natural feel of the surrounding area by choosing neutral colors and eye-catching textures.

The Advantages of Using Paving Stones

When it comes to convenience, appearance and durability, pool deck pavers are ideal. Pool decks built from paving stones will last longer than the alternatives.

The durability of the paving materials allows for optimum performance for many years. Additionally, most surfaces are textured, which makes them safe even under wet conditions as they are non-skid, non-slip. Resistance to chemicals and spills make them perfect for poolside use as well.

In addition to being practical, pavers are visually pleasing. Adding a deck can increase the resale value of your home as well as create an impressive aesthetic you cannot achieve with most landscaping projects.

If your pool is surrounded by a field of natural or artificial grass, adding a deck will break up the monotony. The assortment of sizes, shapes, patterns and colors available means you will easily find the right look to fit your yard.

Maintenance Considerations

Water, chemicals, sun, salt and the weather can destroy any deck surface, but many paving stones are manufactured to resist damage. While poured concrete and wood can crack, split and shift as it ages, pavers are made to endure the test of time.

The stones are set in a sand base, which means they remain flexible but don’t shift position. Contraction and expansion during weather changes will not be an issue.

Most deck pavers are dense and resist water penetration. The joints in between each stone, in addition to proper grading preparation, allow for optimal drainage. This is especially important for pool areas because of the immense amount of water that splashes onto the surrounding space.

If you have ever sloshed through a puddle created by an overflowing pool, you may want to consider using interlocking stones for your deck.

With traditional concrete slab decks, the options for replacement are limited. Fixing any utility issues or underground line leaks is virtually impossible without saw cutting the concrete and re-pouring the problem area, which can turn into an eye soar.

If you choose to lay paver stones, you can remove and add as many as you need without destroying the adjacent deck surface. Each stone can be easily set back into position, and the overall look of the deck won’t be compromised. This means that accessing any underground utilities can be done with relative ease.

You can showcase any pool area by adding a deck that reflects your own style. When making your selections for deck materials, choose textured, nonskid surfaces and light earth tone colors.

With very little effort, you can transform your pool into a breathtaking, appealing entertainment space for family, friends and neighbors. For more tips on how to choose the best pool deck, contact Install It Direct today.

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