While choosing patio materials is fun, the process usually involves having to go through a great many great choices, and it can be hard to narrow them down. To simplify the process, here are three details to look for in patio pavers from our masonry supply in Harrisburg, PA.
Patio pavers can become focal points in their own right, or they can serve as backdrops for furniture and decorative details. Either way, here’s how to achieve the desired look for your next patio project.
1. Color
You could start with color, because that’s the feature what will jump out the most every time someone looks at their feet. First, consider the use. If it’ll be the kind of patio that’s frequented by bare feet, perhaps choose lighter colors that won’t get too hot in the summer sun. If you’re in doubt, set a sample paver somewhere it will get direct sun for at least a few hours (midday). Place your hand or a bare foot on the paver. If you can comfortably hold it there for 10 seconds, it’s a great choice. If it’s too hot, you may want to avoid that paver or use it only as a border or accent.
Next, consider color temperature. Browns and tans are in the warm color range, which give the patio a welcoming rustic feel. Light and mid tone greys are in the cool color family, which makes for a sophisticated and elegant space. In general to achieve the most pleasing look, you don’t want to mix color temperatures except in borders (such as warm red brick next to cool limestone).
2. Size
The appeal of small pavers is that they can make spaces feel more intimate, and allow for creative laying patterns including circular or curved patterns. The downside is that unless your jointing compound is the same color (or very close) to the pavers, the space can appear busy.
Large pavers can be the best choice if you want to give the outdoor space a fresh modern feel. The look will be uncluttered thanks to fewer joint lines, and especially so if you use same-colored jointing compound. The downside to large pavers is that your laying patterns are limited (usually edge to edge or running bond), and it’s more challenging to fit them into awkwardly shaped spaces or for curved applications.
The happy medium is midsized pavers. With midsized pavers you can still appreciate the individual beauty and character of each paver; you have many pattern options; and the size is versatile enough to be used virtually anywhere.
3. Finish and Texture
Depending on the intended use, you’ll want to be sure that the pavers you select give you the performance you need. A non-slip texture is a must, especially in the Pennsylvania climate with frequent summer rains and winter snow and slush. Most concrete pavers will come with a non-slip texture, but be aware that many types of natural stone will not (and natural stone can become very slippery when wet).
The more pronounced the texture, the more rustic the appearance. Some pavers are available in textured and smooth varieties—if you love the color but want more, or less, texture. Textured pavers can look great next to rustic homes or sleek modern homes but will often clash with homes that already have stone or brick siding (brick and textured flagstone, for example, can be an overly busy combination).
Once you use these parameters to narrow the choices, the final decision will be easier!
Related: WHERE TO FIND YEAR-ROUND COLOR IN A GARDEN SUPPLY STORE IN STATE COLLEGE, PA
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