Like plants, paving materials can provide more texture, pattern and color to your garden. There are two broad categories of paving materials: composite material and quarried stone. Composite materials such as precast concrete and brick pavers are processed and molded while soft and then allowed to dry or fired.
While it can be fun to shop and design paving materials, the many choices available can be a little overwhelming. Every material has its pros and cons and a number of them are better suited than others to certain locations and uses. That is why you have to understand and explore your options so you can n make the best choice based upon your budget and setting.
Stone is a versatile and durable paving material providing a range of shapes, sizes and colors. From county-garden paths to irregularly shaped flagstones, there is a stone for each garden situation. But buying and installing stone can be expensive. When buying stone for paving, consider a minimum thickness of 2 inches to support frequent foot traffic and endure the challenges of weather and settling.
- Gravel is a Good Choice for a Tight Budget
Installing gravel is easy and this material offers an attractive texture perfect for short-term paving solutions, informal landscapes and gardens constructed on limited budgets. Keep in mind though that gravel can become weedy and too unstable underfoot.
- Slate is Perfect for Its Color and Texture
Slate is usually used as flagstone offering a subtle color palette and unique soft texture which attracts that captures the attention of people. But in locations which tend to experience heavy rainfall and freezing, slate will usually chip and flake.
- Granite is Unmatchable in Terms of Durability and Strength
Granite makes a sophisticated paving material for formal outdoor spaces. Usually, it is sold as brick-shaped pieces or cubes or as uniform-size flagstone. Apart from its durability and hardness, this material provides wide color choices. But because of its hardness, it is not easy to quarry and work. That is why this material tends to be pricier paving stones.
- Sandstone is a Great All-Around Choice
Sandstone has enough toughness for any paving application. However, it’s easier to cut and work than granite. It is in the market in a lot of colors and shapes and people can easily get it in huge quantities.
