Paver Patios

Most commonly, the term “pavers” refers to stones made from concrete. There are also pavers that are made from clay brick or natural stone.  Generally, they are small pieces in various sizes that are installed in colors, textures and patterns. When installed properly, the pieces interlock to create a flexible and strong pavement system. Because there are many joints in an interlocking concrete pavement, the pavers themselves are very strong and not prone to cracking or breaking. Most pavers are 3 to 4 times stronger than even the concrete foundation of the home. 

Most pavers are also manufactured with pigments and aggregates that goes throughout the thickness of them, so if there is ever a small chip it won’t be as noticeable. Poured concrete can also have color added to it, but that color tends to fade quickly and will probably need to be reapplied every year or two. Both pavements can benefit from a protective sealer being applied.

Because of the process, an average sized paver patio typically takes an experienced team about 3-5 days to install from start to finish, depending on the size of the area. Concrete patios can be poured in a matter of hours, but they take 1 to 3 days to cure. Once a paver patio is installed, you can walk on it immediately.

Excellent for Varying Climates and Seasonal Changes

It’s important to remember that winter weather can affect your patio. In the winter months, when the moisture in the ground freezes and thaws, the ground expands and contracts. In the Greater Portland area, there may be less than 7-10 cycles in a year. Regardless, as the ground expands and contracts it moves the patio too. This can easily lead to cracks in the weaker spots in solid surfaces, such as concrete. With a paver patio and how it is installed (piece by piece and fit together), there are more seams across the pavement surface, allowing the pavers to individually flex each cycle but then ideally, settle back into the original position when the expansion recedes. A Paver Patio installed by Aurora Landscape’s trained professionals can have minimal movement when our proper construction practices are used.

Paver Patios are Low Maintenance

Repairs on or under a paver patio are seamless and much easier to perform than those around a concrete patio, where you might end up replacing the entire concrete slab. Upkeep of paver patios is very minimal. Sweep or blow any debris off the patio surface as needed. Most stains that happen can be cleaned easily with soap and water. If needed, there are several cleaners available that are formulated for the type of stain – food, oil, grease or rust.

Protective sealers can also be applied to make maintenance and cleaning even easier. Sealers also protect the pavers from environmental wear and tear. Depending on which sealer is used, some may need to be reapplied occasionally. They come in various finishes from completely invisible to a wet look film forming sealant.

There isn’t one right answer for you on whether or not a paver patio is right for your needs. But, as you can see from the descriptions above, it is an excellent option for many homeowners, especially living in the Greater Portland areas. Before making any decisions, make sure you talk with one of our experts, such as an Aurora Landscape Staff Member. We are happy to answer any/all questions that you might have.