A retaining or retention wall could be a need or a want for your property. In some cases, it could be both. Learn more about these structures and get retaining wall ideas for your yard below. 

What Is a Retaining Wall?

A retaining wall is a human-made structure that minimizes or stops soil erosion on a slope. It retains soil, water, sand, and other natural materials from shifting downward. As such, soils can be at two elevations simultaneously, giving the landscape shape and dimension. 

Different Types of Retaining Walls

Cantilever Retaining Wall

One of the top cheap retaining wall ideas is to install a cantilever structure. This type of wall relies on less material than many other types of retaining walls while offering great reinforcement. Still, it’s lightweight and has many of the same benefits as a gravity retaining wall. 

Gravity Retaining Wall 

A gravity retaining wall is a massive structure that uses its weight and gravity load to counter soil pressure. Despite its high weight, a gravity wall’s width should be half the thickness of its height.

Masonry, concrete, and natural stone are common materials for this type of retention wall. It’s easy to install and incredibly strong, with enough plasticity to install along a curve. 

Anchored Retaining Wall

Anchored retaining walls are complex structures. They get extra reinforcement from connections to anchors or cables that adhere to other surfaces. Anchored walls are budget-friendly, have good resistance despite their thinner construction, and are most suitable for courtyards featuring a hillock or small mound. 

Crib Retaining Wall

As a type of gravity wall, a crib retaining wall uses a series of interlocking boxes or modules consisting of pre-cast concrete or timber. Inside each box is a coarse granular material for drainage. Though crib retaining walls aren’t ideal for slopes, they’re perfect for supporting garden planters. 

Gabion Retaining Wall

For optimal erosion control with great wind and water flow reduction, a gabion wall is an excellent choice. These structures are essentially wire mesh cages in the form of a wall that you can fill with inorganic materials like pieces of concrete, brick, or stone.

Gabion retaining walls are popular due to the contrast between the sleek wires and rustic interior material. They also get stronger with age since the fill material settles over time. 

Piled Retaining Wall

A pile retaining wall uses a line of reinforced concrete piles that installers drive into the ground. The depth at which someone installs them will give the piles enough strength to counter the horizontal and vertical force of the elevated soil. 

You can install a pile retaining wall as a temporary or permanent fixture. They’re ideal for areas with sudden elevation changes. 

Buttressed Retaining Wall

A buttressed retaining wall is a strengthened cantilever wall with added right-angled supports. It’s similar to a counterfort retaining wall that has hidden supports under the elevated soil. However, a buttressed retaining wall has visible supports that give it extra strength and stabilization to bear the weight of a massive backfill load. 

How Do Retaining Walls Work and Their Advantages

Different types of retaining wall designs feature their own installation methods and materials to ensure efficient soil and moisture retention. Still, the general structural elements are similar. 

The retention wall will have a sand, stone aggregate, or compact soil base. The base’s depth under the ground depends on the retaining wall’s height and the weight it’ll bear. 

The face of the wall is the visible part of the wall that usually has a decorative element like a pattern or stone texture. Behind the face, which connects to the base, is the elevated portion of the soil or backfill. The backfill will also have about a foot of stone aggregates directly behind the wall for drainage. 

The retaining wall will have a thick base or stem if it is relatively high. The stem provides additional stability against the horizontal pressure from the soil behind the wall’s face. 

With a proper retaining wall installation, you could experience these benefits:

• Runoff Management: Retaining walls can influence how water flows off the soil, which can help prevent yard flooding and property damage.
• Soil Erosion Prevention: Heavy rain could erode the soil if your property is part of a hilly area. A retention wall can prevent this. 
• Structural Support for Buildings: By stopping soil erosion, retaining walls can keep soil around your home or business’s foundation sturdy and compact. Your property’s foundation will be more stable.
• Visual Appeal: The types of retaining walls available all have design elements that can make a landscape look more appealing. You can also boost your property’s curb appeal by adding flower beds or high-grade materials to your retaining walls. 

Considerations for Retaining Wall Construction

Before constructing a retaining wall, you should consider these factors to ensure proper placement, effectiveness, and landscape aesthetics:

• Retaining Wall Materials: The materials you select will depend on the type of retaining wall you want. The sturdiest, most common materials are poured concrete, flagstone, brick veneer, and treated timber. 
• Retaining Wall Location: A retaining wall can increase your property’s usable land by creating platforms. However, you must consider the location of property lines, underground utilities, and natural drainage patterns to ensure proper placement.
• Retaining Wall Design: A professional engineer or retaining wall installer could help you create the perfect design for the type of retaining wall you prefer. They’ll use their expertise to calculate ideal wall heights, placement, and setback angles to produce the best results.

Conclusion

No matter which types of retaining walls you like for your property in the Pacific Northwest, count on Sta-Built Construction for a flawless installation. Our fully licensed and insured company and experienced crew deliver excellent workmanship on all projects and guarantee satisfaction with a 15-year workmanship warranty. Call (360) 284-2573 today to request a free estimate for landscape retaining walls.

Artificial turf for backyard spaces is a great way to enhance outdoor living spaces without the fuss of living grass. Keep reading and draw inspiration from the top small backyard turf ideas to use for your home.

What Is Artificial Turf?

Artificial turf or synthetic grass is a human-made material consisting of polyethylene and polypropylene that replicates the look of natural grass. The turf has synthetic grass blades at varying pile heights and a construction similar to carpeting. Manufacturers stitch the blades onto a solid backing and use rubber granules and silica to keep the artificial blades upright. 

Despite being artificial, many property owners are turning to turf to fulfill their backyard landscaping ideas. The modern version of the material is high-quality and realistic-looking. 

Small Backyard Turf Ideas

Small backyard turf ideas can be limitless with the right amount of creativity. Here are the top ideas to consider when you’re ready to transform your outdoor living space. 

Personal Backyard Dog Park

If you have a dog, it’ll need lots of room for exercise and outdoor relaxation. Installing synthetic grass in your backyard is perfect for your furry companion, thanks to its durability. It can hold up well to pet urine, foot traffic, and holes your pet might try to dig.

By transforming your yard into a miniature dog park with synthetic turf, you can maintain your lawn’s appearance while creating a safe and enjoyable space for your pet to roam, play, and do their business. This type of turf offers good drainage, and you install a pre-treated variety to resist unwanted pet odors. 

Putting Green

Whether you’re a golf enthusiast or new to the game, having a putting green in your backyard is a fun way to incorporate fun into your outdoor living space. This is one of the small backyard turf ideas that works well for a boxy yard or one with a long, narrow space. 

Children’s Play Area

Foot traffic from young children frequently playing in a yard with natural grass could leave the space with mud spots, brown grass, and bald patches. These changes can seriously affect the yard’s visual appeal, leading to additional lawn maintenance and upkeep.

Thankfully, you can keep a stunning backyard that’s safe for your children to run and play by installing synthetic turf. The material is durable enough to withstand the foot traffic. Consider creating a designated play area with the turf featuring a swing set, picnic table, or collection of outdoor games.

Paver Borders

Tile, slate, and concrete pavers can give the property a sense of texture and dimension when grass grows from the spaces between the pavers. Unfortunately, caring for thin patches of grass can be cumbersome, especially after factoring in weed and pest control.

Still, you can achieve the carefully cultivated appearance of landscaping pavers by using artificial grass instead of real grass. Your yard will maintain a neat, aesthetically pleasing appearance throughout the year. 

Grassy Pool Surround

Sometimes, the addition of an inground pool restricts how much usable space is left in a backyard. Using turf as a backyard pool surround is a great way to incorporate greenery into the yard and enhance the water feature’s attractiveness. 

This type of backyard design offers several benefits. First, it eliminates the risk of muddy tracks around the pool because the turf will sit above the soil. Second, the material is slip-resistant, making it safe to walk around the pool area after swimming. 

Planter Garden Backdrop

Despite loving gardening or flowers, not everyone likes mowing, watering, and maintaining grass. Still, the vibrancy of green grass makes gardens stand out more. 

Get the look you want with a synthetic lawn as a backdrop for your plants and flowers. For easy gardening, use decorative garden planters for live plants. You can easily adjust their arrangement over the turf without needing to dig through the soil. 

Benefits of Synthetic Turf in Backyard Landscaping

When implementing turf-related landscaping ideas for backyards into your property, knowing the material’s benefits is necessary. Perhaps the biggest advantage is the non-existent need for lawn care like grass mowing and watering. Artificial turf can give your yard a vibrant, lush, and natural appearance without the typical maintenance and upkeep of a lawn with real grass. 

Other Benefits of Synthetic Turf Include:

• Long-Lifespan With Low-Maintenance: Unlike real grass, synthetic turf will never turn brown and die. Quality synthetic lawns will always stay green without developing unsightly brown spots. 
• Time-Saving: Since you don’t have to water or mow a synthetic lawn, you can spend the time you’d otherwise reserve for lawn care on other activities. 
• No Need for Chemical Treatments: A downside of natural grass is the occasional need for pesticides to eliminate weeds and pest infestations. However, these chemical treatments are unnecessary for artificial turf because weeds and insects in your backyard will decline. 
• Water Conservation: Synthetic grass doesn’t need watering. You can conserve water since you won’t need it to maintain most, if not all, of your landscape. This benefit can also lead to lower water bills. 
• Safe for Children and Pets: You can be confident that your children and pets can play on your backyard’s synthetic turf without worrying over mud puddles or grass stains on clothing.

Conclusion

If you have some small backyard turf ideas that you want to implement on your property, turn to Sta-Built Construction. As one of the leading exterior services companies in the Pacific Northwest, our licensed and insured crew offers excellent turf installations. We can take your backyard landscape ideas and make them a reality. Call (360) 800-4614 today to discuss your backyard ideas with our team and get a free estimate.

So, if you’re wondering how to clean concrete pavers, consult the guide below for everything you need to know. We’ll help you discover how to clean patio pavers without removing sand, how to clean pavers around a pool, and more.

The Importance of Cleaning Pavers

Pavers are incredibly durable, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t susceptible to dirt, grime, and wear. Not knowing how to clean stone pavers can negatively impact your home’s curb appeal.

Over time, constant weather and sunlight exposure can wash out pavers’ coloring. It also becomes easier for dirt and debris to settle on the pavers’ surface. By learning how to clean driveway pavers or those around your patio, walkways, or pool, you can brighten the material and make it look like new. 

Tools Required for Cleaning Pavers

Before learning how to clean pavers, you must have the right tools at your disposal like:

• A bucket
• A hose
• A stiff-bristled broom or scrub brush
• Mild detergent

You might need equipment beyond the basics since you can clean stone or concrete pavers in several ways. If you choose to scrub your patio or driveway pavers by hand using a handheld scrub brush, you may want knee pads for comfort. You may need an anti-weed solution or weed trimmer to remove weeds before cleaning. 

Different Cleaning Methods

Cleaning methods for pavers vary. You can use special equipment to breathe life into exterior surfaces or take a natural, homemade approach. Here are the top paver cleaning methods. 

Power Washer

You can quickly blast away unwanted dirt and debris by using a power washer on your pavers. This option is best if you know how to adjust the water’s pressure to prevent damaging the paver surface. 

Broom and Hose

If your driveway or patio paver only needs a gentle cleaning, you can wet it with a hose and scrub it with a brush. This method gently loosens dirt and debris that you can rinse away.

Mild Detergent and Water

Mix mild detergent like dish soap in a bucket with water to remove slightly tougher stains and debris. Then, use a brush or broom to scrub the pavers’ surface. 

Vinegar and Water 

A vinegar and water mixture is great for cleaning pavers as long as you use it correctly. Only use white vinegar to prevent staining. Be sure to combine it with enough water to reduce its acidity without eliminating its cleaning properties. 

Baking Soda and Water

Using a mild abrasive like a baking soda and water paste effectively breaks down stubborn stains. Simply mix equal parts water and baking soda, create a paste, apply it to the pavers, and scrub it gently with a sponge. 

Commercial Paver Cleaner

Commercial patio paver cleaners have a higher concentration than the solutions you can make at home. Still, the formulation is specific to pavers, so it won’t damage the material. 

Paver Cleaning Process

Whether you use sand or gravel between your pavers, you don’t have to remove them from the material to clean the pavers. Learn how to clean pavers while retaining the sand between them using the guide below. You can refill gaps from deteriorating joint material afterward.

Clear the Space

The first step in cleaning pavers is to remove any items from the area that could be in the way. Carefully put patio furniture, potted plants, grills, and other items on the lawn to keep them safe and dry. 

Tidy Any Vegetation

Sweep away leaves, twigs, and other loose debris from your pavers. If weeds are present, pull them out by hand. You can also use a weed trimmer or killer to eliminate them. 

Get the Pavers Wet

Saturate the pavers with plain water from a garden hose. Wet the entire surface for optimal results. 

Prepare a Mild, Non-Acidic Cleaning Solution

In your bucket, add warm water with dish soap. Vigorously mix the solution with a broom or brush to create suds. You can substitute a commercial-grade paver cleaner for the soap or make a vinegar and water solution. 

Gently Scrub the Pavers

Saturate the broom or brush in the solution. Scrub the surface of the pavers gently in a circular motion. 

Rinse the Pavers

Rinse the pavers after scrubbing thoroughly. Repeat the process until you’re satisfied with the results. 

How NOT To Clean Pavers?

Due to the durable nature of stone and concrete pavers, you might think abrasive cleaning materials are best for cleaning them. However, using items like wire bristle scrubbing brushes can create unsightly scratches. The damage will also weaken the pavers’ protective seal, making them vulnerable to cracks. 

A pressure washer is another cleaning tool that could cause problems for your pavers. The highly pressurized water could strip compacted dirt and tough stains from the pavers. Yet, it could also destroy the protective seal over concrete pavers if the water pressure is too high.

Frequently Asked Questions — Paver Cleaning

What Is the Best Way To Clean Pavers?

The best way to clean pavers around your home is to sweep them and hose them down monthly. If they still look dirty, you can scrub them gently with a mild cleaner. 

Will Vinegar Damage Patio Pavers?

Undiluted vinegar will damage patio pavers because the liquid is highly acidic. Still, properly diluting white vinegar with water can effectively and naturally lift tough stains from concrete or brick pavers. 

What Is the Best Chemical for Cleaning Outdoor Pavers?

The best chemical to use while cleaning outdoor pavers is a mild detergent with water. Dish soap is perfect for removing dirt, grime, and debris without damaging the paver, regardless of the material. 

Conclusion

Now that you know how to clean pavers around your home, driveway, and pool, trust Sta-Built Construction to provide a quality paver installation. We’re a top-rated paver contractor serving the Pacific Northwest, delivering unmatched customer service and comprehensive paver services.We offer patio, driveway, and outdoor firepit installations, all with 15-year workmanship warranties. Call Sta-Built Construction at (360) 837-6170 today to request a free estimate.

However, pavers don’t look great forever. You need to apply a paver sealer (a type of protective coating for your paver surface) periodically to retain that exquisite look you love for a long time.

In this blog post, you’ll learn how to apply a paver sealer on your own.

The Need for Paver Sealers

Some of the benefits of paver sealers include the following.

Increased Protection

Sealing a paver patio or driveway means better protection against weathering. Moisture, UV rays, snow, and ice can cause your paver to fade.  

Stains also seep into the surface more easily when there’s no protective coating over it. Paver sealers create a barrier over the surface, keeping substances from entering the porous surface of paver stones. 

Increased Durability

When you seal pavers, they become more resistant to salt, freeze-thaw cycles, and other environmental factors. A high-quality sealer also makes the surface less attractive to weeds and mildew. The result is a surface that will last longer and remain attractive for a long time.

Easier Cleaning

Sealed pavers don’t absorb stains. Therefore, cleaning sealed surfaces is a lot more straightforward. All you need is soap, water, and a bristled broom (medium stiffness) to keep your paved surface shining.

Popping Color

Brick paver sealing has a way of bringing out the natural color of pavers. Sealed paver surfaces look more vibrant and attractive than unsealed surfaces. So, knowing how to apply a paver sealer is a sure way to keep your driveway or patio looking great for a long time.

Types of Paver Sealers

Paver sealers come in different variants. Each one has its pros and cons. Understanding the benefits and downsides of each one will help you choose the best option for your outdoor space. The options include the following.

Solvent-Based Sealer

Solvent-based sealers are the most durable option. Homeowners choose them because they penetrate deep into the surface of the individual stones to form a thick protective layer across them. Thus, it’s best to use solvent-based sealers across high-traffic areas such as driveways and walkways.

They also make the pavers look more vibrant, especially if you choose options with a high-gloss finish.

However, solvent-based sealers have a strong chemical composition, which gives off a strong odor during application. So, you’ll need to wear protective gear over your face to prevent fumes from entering your eyes or lungs.

Water-Based Sealer

Do you want a more natural, true-to-color appearance for your pavers? Water-based sealers are the best choice. These eco-friendly products with lower volatile organic compounds come in satin and matte finishes. The installation process is straightforward. They provide UV protection without leaving a yellow tint and prevent water damage. However, they work best for areas with less foot traffic. Otherwise, you may need to reapply more frequently.

Paver Sealers and Joint Stabilizers

Some products are a mix of paver sealers and joint stabilizers. They don’t just keep your paver surface looking great and protected against UV rays, chemicals, and water damage. They also keep in the joint sand, which prevents erosion, weed growth, and insect infestation. You can find these products in natural matte or gloss finishes.

The Steps To Applying a Paver Sealer

Below is a look at how to apply a paver sealer.

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

You can’t apply paver sealers on dirty or debris-laden surfaces. Similarly, you don’t want to discover a problem with the paver surface after you’ve already gone halfway into the paver sealing process. Therefore, you need to spend some time preparing the surface.

Start by checking for broken or cracked segments and missing locking sand in block joints. Next, clean the surface thoroughly using soap, water, and broom (or hire pressure washing equipment).

After cleaning the surface, wait until it’s dry before sealing to avoid trapping any moisture inside.

Step 2: Apply the Sealer

You should only apply paver sealers on low humidity days where the temperature agrees with the manufacturer’s recommendation on the sealer label. Stir the sealer thoroughly before use to avoid uneven application.

The best way to ensure you’ll get a nice, even coating is to apply the sealer with a low-pressure sprayer to ensure you get enough sealant into crevices and pavers, then go over the surface with a dry roller to soak up any excess. The roller will also remove drip marks.

Step 3: Wait for the Sealer To Dry

You need to wait for the sealer to dry if you want to enjoy the results of your hard work. Cordon off the area to avoid foot traffic from people and pets.

It can take up to 24 hours for the sealer to dry and for the surface to be ready for use again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) — Paver Sealer

Is There a Prep Process Before Applying Paver Sealant?

Yes, there is a prep process before you can apply paver sealant. The bulk of it involves cleaning the pavers to avoid sealing in stains, debris, and dirt. However, you may also need to fix visible damage to the surface first.

What If I Don’t Seal My Pavers?

You expose your pavers to faster deterioration if you don’t seal them. Unsealed pavers don’t have any defenses against the elements. Thus, they’ll break down more quickly.

What Are the Ideal Weather Conditions for Sealing?

You should only apply sealers in mild, low-humidity temperatures. This rules out extremely cold or extremely hot days. Manufacturers also have temperature recommendations.

How Often Should I Reapply Paver Sealers?

You should reapply paver sealers every three to five years. The exact frequency depends on the type of sealer you’re using and the level of abuse the surface suffers.

Conclusion

Knowing how to apply a paver sealer is the most effective way to maintain the beauty and durability of your paver surfaces. Do you need help with the paver sealing process? Would you like to know more about how much paver sealing costs? Call the Sta-Built Construction team in Olympia, WA, at (360) 837-6170 for help with paver stone sealing.

Are you considering installing a firepit in your yard? These inspiring firepit patio ideas from Sta-Built Construction’s firepit installation experts could help you get it just right.

The Need for Firepit Patios

There are countless reasons to own a firepit patio, including the following:

• Bring Family and Friends Closer. Who doesn’t love the warmth of open fires? A firepit patio is a sure way to make game nights more fun and keep the visit going.
• Improve your Property’s Curb Appeal. Even when you are not using your firepit patio, it still looks great just standing there if you choose a style that complements the rest of your landscaping.
• Make Outdoor Time More Relaxing. Cutting your time outdoors short to escape the mosquitoes can be annoying. A firepit burning softwood might keep them away!
• Help your Home Stand Out. Do you intend to put your home on the market in the coming years? A firepit patio will make it stand out from other listings in the area and maybe even increase your asking price.

The Top Patio With Firepit Ideas For More From Your Outdoor Entertainment Space

If you’d like to make the most of that new firepit you’re putting in, here are ten great ideas to consider.

#1 The Outdoor Room

Give your firepit patio an edge by customizing it to look like an indoor space but under the sun. 

One way to achieve this is by making the firepit the centerpiece and surrounding it with plush seating and a dining area. Throw some natural greenery into the mix to make the firepit patio blend into the background better.

#2 The Sunken Firepit

A sunken firepit patio is an excellent choice if you want to go the minimalist route. From the outside, all anyone will see is a stylish patio. Upon closer inspection, they’ll find a warm surprise that’s inviting on a cool evening for some time under the stars.

The sunken firepit patio idea works best with contemporary architecture. That’s the only way to ensure the rectangular pavers, geometric seating, and rounded patio edges don’t look out of place.

#3 The Built-In Seating Firepit Patio

This option is great if you love rustic patio ideas with firepit centerpieces. Picture a patio featuring a sort of retaining wall with seating around a firepit. Throw in a few throw pillows and bright curtains, and you have a little slice of a Mediterranean getaway right in your backyard.

#4 The Maxi Warm Patio

If yours is already cozy enough, you may not feel the need to explore more firepit patio ideas. However, you could create the perfect outdoor space for year-round fun by embracing a blanket and rug-heavy décor. 

Chunky knitted blankets and thick rugs texturize seating areas and provide better warmth on colder days of the year. When the weather warms up, you can neatly fold the blankets away and convert them into accessories.

#5 The Ultra Sleek, Modern Firepit Patio

When the conversation is about firepit patio ideas, most people instinctively think about a rustic look. However, it’s still possible to find a perfect firepit patio design for modern or industrial architectural themes.

For example, you could embrace a low-profile rectangular patio design with a flat firepit and modern chairs and side tables around it. The result will be an exquisite relaxation space that doesn’t add visual clutter.

#6 The Portable Firepit Patio

When looking at firepit ideas, it’s easy to only think about options where the firepit is static and a focal point. 

However, if you value flexibility, try a patio with firepit components that are portable. That way, you can condense or expand the patio space as you deem fit.

#7 The Playful Patio Designs With Firepit Flair

Most lookbooks on patio designs with firepit additions will suggest matching décor and accessories to the exterior of your home and surrounding landscape. However, nothing says you can’t break out of the mold!

If you want a concrete firepit, pink cushions, and colorful throws, go for it. Give your outdoor space a look like something out of Hollywood if that’s your thing.

#8 The Adventure Lover’s Firepit Patio

Do you love the feeling of camping with firepits between trees? You can replicate that look if you have a green backyard. 

Stone firepit patio ideas work well in the middle of a wood-heavy patio. Throw in some Adirondack chairs and enjoy an adventure every day.

#9 The Family Firepit Patio

A standard patio featuring a firepit can be family-friendly, too. All you need is a wide ledge that creates a natural barrier between the fire and the fingers of younger children. 

Later, the ledge becomes the perfect seat for marshmallow roasting for older children or the young at heart.

#10 The Watery Adventure

The final idea for your new firepit patio design is to partner the pit with the pool. 

Why not install a gravel floor patio with a firepit at the center? Surround the firepit with wooden chairs, and you’ll have a picturesque but functional finish for your swimming pool area.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)—Firepit Patio

Will My Firepit Get Hot?

Yes, your outdoor firepit will get hot. Temperatures can reach 1400 degrees, depending on the fuel source.

Do I Need a Barrier Under My Firepit?

Yes, you need a barrier under your firepit if you want to protect the surface underneath and contain the heat safely.

Can I Put My Firepit on the Grass?

No, you shouldn’t put your firepit directly onto the grass. For safety reasons, you should have a firepit mat, pavers, or bricks between the grass and the flames.

Your Favorite Patio Ideas With Firepit Installations From Sta-Built Construction

Are you ready to bring one of these firepit patio ideas to life? Call Sta-Built Construction in Olympia, WA, at (360) 837-6170 today to schedule a consultation!

Pavers and concrete are the most common options for many property owners. They have a lot of similarities, especially in terms of durability and ease of access. Still, it’s hard to know which one to choose between them at first glance.

In this pavers vs. concrete post, we’ll cover cost differences, aesthetic appeal, and more to help you make an informed decision.

Concrete vs. Pavers: Factors To Consider While Differentiating Both

Some of the key talking points to consider before deciding between pavers and concrete for your new driveway, walkway, or patio include the following.

Appearance

Pavers are undoubtedly more visually appealing than concrete slabs. They come in different shapes, patterns, textures, and colors. So, it’s easier to find pavers that match your home’s general aesthetic.

On the other hand, concrete has a flatter look. Many people end up exploring ways to improve the concrete’s appearance. Options include staining or embedding the concrete with decorative stones.

Some people also try to replicate the look of pavers on concrete by choosing stamped concrete. However, if you love the look of pavers, it’s probably best to stick with the authentic thing instead of a simulated option.

Durability

While considering pavers vs. concrete, you’ll want to choose the option that will stand the test of time. Which one will hold up longer in the face of regular foot or vehicular traffic and extreme weather conditions? The reality is that both options are highly durable, but to varying degrees.

Concrete can last a long time. However, it is highly prone to cracking in cold weather. Concrete slabs will expand and contract as moisture and temperature changes take their toll on the surface.

One possible reason is that concrete has a lower ASTM specification than pavers. ASTM is the American Society for Testing and Materials. According to the specifications, poured concrete has a compressive strength of around 2,500-3,000 PSI. On the other hand, pavers have a compressive strength of around 8,000 PSI. Concrete has more room to absorb water, while pavers will generally displace it.

Overall, pavers are less likely to crack because the natural density of the material won’t allow water to enter the stone. As a result, expansion and contraction have little to no impact on pavers. The joints and natural interlock between pavers ensure enough room for the little expansion and contraction that pavers undergo without cracking.

Cost

The cost of pavers vs. concrete is one of the biggest talking points in this debate. Overall, the installation cost of installing pavers can be up to 15% more expensive than the cost of installing concrete. The bulk of the extra cost comes from the fact that pavers installation is more labor- and time-intensive than pouring concrete.

If you want to spend the least amount possible on your project, choose concrete for its lower upfront or installation costs. However, looking at the durability of both materials, you should factor in the cost of maintenance over the lifespan of the concrete surface. In some cases, the cost of repairing cracks over the years may erode any savings you made by choosing concrete.

Installation

The pavers installation process is generally more demanding. The installation crew will lay each paver down individually, following a pattern, before securing it with mortar or interlocking edges.

Since installers have to work on the pavers individually, the installation process generally takes longer than concrete.

Contactors install concrete by pouring it on the work site or installing prefabricated slabs. Either way, the installation process is straightforward and takes less time than installing pavers. However, extra finishes or a sharply graded surface might increase the project timeline.

Read More about Paver Planning

Maintenance

Pavers generally require little care. The installation process and the materials generally limit weed growth. However, some moss, weeds, and grass will grow between the joints from time to time. So, you may need to manually remove the few weeds that might appear or treat the area using a weed killer. You can keep the pavers looking great by paying for a professional cleaning and sealing service.

Manufacturers design the base of each stone to flex with ground movement, but settling can still occur. In that scenario, you can call in a contractor to lift the stone, recompact the base, and apply a new layer of sand bedding before setting the stones back into position.

Maintenance for the typical concrete slab is a lot more complicated. Fixing cracks, in most cases, involves pouring a completely new slab. Upon completion of the repair, the refinished area will look different from the rest of the surface as the color of aged concrete is hard to match.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) — Pavers vs. Concrete

Why Choose Pavers Over Concrete?

You should choose pavers over concrete because of their higher durability and flexibility. Pavers also look better than concrete. They come in various colors, shapes, and textures. It’s also easier and cheaper to maintain and repair pavers. So, pavers will win in most cases, whether you’re considering a concrete driveway vs. pavers or concrete vs. paver patio.

Why Do Pavers Fail?

Pavers fail for diverse reasons, including poor installation work, manufacturer defects in the stones, prolonged exposure to extreme weather conditions, and excessive weight.

Why Hire a Pro To Install Pavers?

One of the clearest talking points in the concrete slab vs. pavers debate is that pavers have a more demanding installation process. A professional installer has the experience to install your pavers while adhering to best practices. They will ensure proper leveling, tight joints, and pattern uniformity. The result is an appealing surface that will have a longer lifespan. Additionally, a professional installer will finish the project on schedule.

Conclusion

Looking at the pavers vs. concrete conversation thus far, it’s obvious that pavers come out on top overall.Discover more about the concrete vs. pavers cost, installation process, and more. Call the Sta-Built Construction team in Olympia, WA, at (360) 837-6170 to schedule a consultation.

Sta-Built Construction, serving the lush landscapes of Washington and Oregon, brings to light a common query among hot tub enthusiasts: Is it feasible to set up a hot tub on a paver patio? The answer is affirmative, with some essential guidelines to ensure your serene soak isn’t disturbed by any foundational faux pas.

Weighing Your Options with Sta-Built Construction

A primary consideration highlighted by Sta-Built Construction is the substantial weight a hot tub holds. An unfilled spa can tip the scales at over 200 pounds and significantly more when brimming with water and bathers. It’s imperative for the pavers to shoulder this weight reliably, which is a factor the experts at Sta-Built Construction always account for in their installations.

Solid Ground: The Sta-Built Way

For optimal hot tub enjoyment, a solid and level base is non-negotiable. Sta-Built Construction advises that while pavers can provide an attractive setting, they must be laid flat, unlike the typical slight slope used to facilitate drainage. Ensuring a level paver surface is critical to maintain the structural integrity of your hot tub over time.

Navigating the Landscape of Paver Selection

The team at Sta-Built Construction knows that the choice of pavers is as crucial as their installation. Pavers not designed for heavy-duty use may falter under a hot tub’s weight, leading to cracking and instability. Hence, selecting the right pavers and preparing them on an even, robust gravel base is a standard part of Sta-Built’s process.

Sta-Built’s Pro Tip: Gravel and Permeability

Sta-Built Construction recommends a combination of a 6-inch thick gravel base topped with at least 2-inch thick pavers for a sturdy hot tub foundation. This setup not only ensures even weight distribution but also prevents water from pooling underneath, a testament to Sta-Built’s commitment to durability and quality.

Sta-Built Construction: Your Partner for Paver Perfection

Whether nestled among the evergreens of Washington or the scenic valleys of Oregon, Sta-Built Construction provides expert guidance for your hot tub installation needs. Before you dive into your hot tub dreams, ensure you consult with Sta-Built’s professionals to secure a stable, level, and long-lasting paver patio setup.

Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with Sta-Built’s expertise, and soak up the benefits of your hot tub with confidence and style

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