Pavers: Versatility, flexibility in outdoor design

For the new homeowner, when it comes to design, sometimes the possibilities can seem endless. In most cases, you’ll be working with a blank slate both inside the house and out. It can be a lot to consider.

Although state water stores are at a high right now, the risk of shortages is ever present. A landscape scheme that minimizes water use seems like a wellinformed choice. And even if you do decide to do a little greenscaping, some hardscaping for patio or other outdoor living areas is nearly always in order.

Pavers are a convenient way to add color and texture to your outdoor space. Bay Area retailers offer a broad range of choices as to size, shape and material.

Stone

For a rustic appeal, natural stone is a popular selection. Possessed of innate texture, they also own the durability that arises from the geologic conditions under which they are formed. Bay Area homeowners can choose from among a range of stone types, to include limestone,

bluestone, granite, travertine, cantera, marble and flagstone. Price is a differential. Limestone, for example, is a less costly choice than granite or marble.

In addition, each stone type has its own particular characteristics. The feel of the stone under foot is an example. The texture of the stone when wet is another. Pavers that become slippery when it rains are a concern, especially where young children and the elderly are part of the picture. While stone pavers are available from large retailers, specialty outlets may offer more exclusive material choices. Brick

Incorporating brick pavers into your hardscape design can add a quaint, New England colonial feel to your brand-new construction. In addition to the usual deep red, brick pavers are available in shades of brown, charcoal and pink. Brick pavers can work especially well as garden borders. They can also add rustic appeal to patio and deck areas. In oh-so modern California, using brick may allow you to set yourself apart from the neighbors. Concrete

If you’re looking for durability and are not averse to using man-made material, concrete can be a delightful option. Of the three stone types, concrete is the most affordable, largely because it is composed of cements and aggregate. Believe it or not, concrete also provides the broadest design versatility, as it comes in a remarkable array of colors. Imagine selecting pavers to coordinate with your patio furniture, your plantings and any other outdoor decor elements. Concrete pavers are often developed to resemble natural stone. On the other hand, those that retain the look of concrete offer a modern feel that is directly in line with many Bay Area new home exteriors.

Viewed as an afterthought buy, some pavers can serve as the focal point of your new home landscape design. Available in a range of materials, colors, shapes and sizes, they are a versatile addition to any outdoor space. When choosing pavers, you should keep in mind durability, texture and ease of installation. Whether you choose to forego greenscaping entirely or use pavers as an integral part of the scheme, they’re sure to offer visual appeal for years to come.