Whether you’re building a patio or a driveway, you’ve got a lot of different choices when it comes to paver materials. Here’s how to cut through the clutter and understand what you need.
General concerns
- Will it match your home? If your house incorporates a lot of brick, look for a paver that will match – not just now, but after years of weathering. No brick? You’ll need a paver that compliments your home’s look and coloring.
- Will it last for years? The cheapest choice today might not be the most affordable one over time. Make sure you won’t be replacing your pavers a few years from now.
- How will it weather? Some pavers look as great in 3 years as they do today – but others weather and change color over time.
Specific features
- Rough or smooth? A rough surface shows wear better in a driveway, while a smooth paver might feel better in your patio.
- Lug or no lug? Lugs on the side of your pavers mean they’re less likely to grind and chip. That’s important in your driveway, but less crucial in your outdoor dining area.
Want to know more? Find photo and video of some of our favorite hardscapes right here, or learn how Hursthouse would approach your Chicago-area landscaping project on this page.
