subject: Interlocking Pavers: Paving Without The Price [print this page] Concrete paver prices are just one of the many advantages this unique building material gives you. They are more cost effective than other forms of paving and easier to install and maintain. Plus, the wide variety of finishes, colors and sizes enables you to fit your paved area in with the rest of your landscape design for a sleek and seamless look.
So how do interlocking pavers stand up against single surface concrete and asphalt or brick pavers? The answer may surprise you. Nothing is as durable and strong as interlocking pavers. That's because the interlocking system takes into account the natural expanding and contracting of the earth's surface and allows for movement and settling.
This is extremely important since this kind of shifting cannot be avoided. As the ground heats and cools, it will bend and stretch and if your paved surface doesn't move with it, you'll find yourself spending a fortune in repairs and replacements. Even pavers that use traditional grout can't offer the kind of durability and stability that interlocking pavers do.
That's why concrete paver prices are well worth the investment. Once they are laid, you'll never have to worry about cracking or shifting. And if there is a problem with one or two of the pavers, you can remove those individual pieces and replace them without having to replace the entire patio, driveway or walk.
While traditional brick pavers can give you a nice, uniform look and don't carry the same cracking concerns as solid surface pavement, they are not without their issues. The use of mortar creates the opportunity for shifting and settling caused by the elements. This is why you'll often see a brick path that looks like it is off kilter or has one or two bricks out of place.
Because they create a tight bond from stone to stone, interlocking pavers don't have this problem. They maintain their look and continue to provide a smooth, solid surface regardless of the weather conditions. All that you need is a layer of sand to fill in the seams and your walkway or patio is good to go. For heavily trafficked areas, you might want to add a sealant over the top for added protection.
You can minimize expenses and maximize the return on your investment by opting to use interlocking pavers. And not only are concrete paver prices reasonable, you can further reduce costs by doing the installation yourself. It's so simple you don't need to hire a contractor; most homeowners can handle small paving projects themselves with minimal effort.
Paving doesn't have to cost you a fortune. Consider all your choices and opt for interlocking concrete pavers to give you a high quality look without a high-end price. You'll have a design that is as pleasing to the pocketbook as it is to the eye and you can enjoy it for years to come!
