Why are Paver Patios a good option?

Honest answer from professional patio paver installers in Maryland. 

We are BMA Landscaping, a trusted name in the industry with over 9 years of experience installing paver patios in Maryland. With our extensive background, we can speak confidently on the subject and provide our clients with top-quality installations, valuable insights, and advice.

Call Us at 443-620-4117

Short Answer: 

Paver patios are an excellent choice due to their durability, weather resistance, and minimal maintenance requirements. Composed of individual pavers, they have the flexibility to adapt without cracking, making them perfect for regions with fluctuating weather conditions like freeze/thaw cycles or heavy rainfall. They also withstand snow, ice, and minor seismic activity.

In terms of affordability and upkeep, paver patios are cost-effective and easy to maintain. Routine sweeping and occasional hosing down are usually sufficient. An annual cleaning with a gentle, plant-friendly detergent can keep the patio looking fresh.

Paver patios typically boast a strength three to four times greater than concrete slabs. They are available in various colors, some of which can effectively camouflage minor chips or cracks, extending their aesthetic appeal.

While the initial investment may be higher than other patio options, the long-term savings are significant. There’s no need for continuous staining or sealing, and repairs are straightforward, usually involving the replacement of individual pavers.

Additionally, installing a paver patio can enhance the overall value of your home.

#outdoor living space #benefits of pavers #paver patio contractor

In depth answer of why paver patios are a good option:

1- Brief overview and introductions to paver patios

Paver patios are outdoor living spaces constructed using individual paving stones, commonly called pavers. Unlike slab concrete or poured concrete patios, paver patios are made up of interlocking pieces, which offer greater flexibility and durability. These pavers are made from various materials, such as concrete, brick, or natural stone, and they come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors. The design possibilities are endless, allowing homeowners to create unique patterns and layouts that reflect their style. One of the key advantages of paver patios is their resilience; they can flex and shift with natural ground movements, reducing the risk of cracking or breaking. This makes them particularly suitable for areas that experience freeze-thaw cycles or heavy rainfall. Additionally, paver patios are low-maintenance, requiring only occasional sweeping and washing to keep them looking new. They are also known for their long-term cost-effectiveness, as they are easy to repair and can add value to your home.

– More Entertaining Space:

Expanding your patio with a paver patio offers numerous entertainment benefits. First, a larger paver patio provides extra space for outdoor activities like barbecues, parties, and family gatherings. You can install an outdoor kitchen, a fireplace, or even an outdoor cinema to enhance the entertainment experience.

Second, the variety of designs and colors available in pavers allows you to customize the space to fit your tastes and needs. This adds an aesthetic touch and creates a more inviting atmosphere for your guests.

Third, a paver patio is an excellent way to delineate different areas for various activities. For example, you could have a dining area, a relaxation zone, and a third area for games or sports.

Fourth, paver patios’ durability and low maintenance mean you can enjoy your entertainment space for years to come without worrying about extensive upkeep.

Here’s a list of games that can be enjoyed on a paver patio:

1. Cornhole
2. Bocce Ball
3. Giant Jenga
4. Horseshoes
5. Ring Toss
6. Ladder Golf
7. Pétanque
8. Washer Toss
9. Miniature Golf (portable set)
10. Chess & Checkers (large outdoor set)
11. Dominoes
12. KanJam (Frisbee game)
13. Spikeball
14. Croquet
15. Quoits
16. Bean Bag Toss
17. Tic-Tac-Toe (large outdoor set)
18. Connect Four (large outdoor set)
19. Skee-Ball (portable set)
20. Shuffleboard (portable set)

These games are perfect for family gatherings, parties, or just a casual weekend afternoon. They can easily be set up and taken down, making them convenient choices for paver patios.

2- Types of Pavers

#Brick paver patio

Numerous materials are available for crafting a paver patio, each offering its unique aesthetic and functional benefits. The wide range of options allows for great flexibility in design, ensuring that you can create a patio that perfectly suits your needs and style preferences.

The most commonly used materials for paver patios include:

1. Concrete Pavers
2. Brick Pavers
3. Natural Stone Pavers
4. Rubber Pavers
5. Porcelain Pavers
6. Travertine Pavers
7. Cobblestone
8. Bluestone
9. Flagstone
10. Granite

Cost and Financial Aspects

Initial Costs and Long-term Financial Benefits

While the initial investment for installing a paver patio may be higher than other patio options, it’s essential to consider the long-term financial benefits. Paver patios are incredibly durable and long-lasting, so you won’t have to replace them as often as you might with other materials. Over time, this durability translates into significant cost savings, making paver patios a wise investment for your property. Additionally, a well-designed paver patio can increase the overall value of your home, offering a good return on investment should you decide to sell.

Low-cost, Easy Maintenance

One of the most appealing aspects of paver patios is their low maintenance requirements. Unlike wooden decks that need regular staining or concrete patios that may require sealing, paver patios need minimal upkeep. Routine sweeping and occasional hosing down are usually sufficient to keep them looking new. If a paver becomes damaged, you can easily replace it without affecting the surrounding area, saving on repair costs. 

Durability and Longevity of Paver Patios

#Benefits of paver patios

Durability of Paver Patios:

Paver patios are designed to last, thanks to the high-quality materials used in their construction. Whether you choose concrete, brick, or natural stone pavers, you’re investing in a patio built to withstand daily wear and tear and extreme weather conditions. The individual pavers are usually manufactured to meet industry standards for compressive strength and durability, making them highly resistant to cracking, chipping, or breaking. This is especially important in high-traffic areas where the patio is frequently used for barbecues, parties, or children’s play.

Long-lasting Nature:

One of the most significant advantages of paver patios is their longevity. Unlike wooden decks that can rot or concrete slabs that can crack over time, paver patios are built to last for decades with minimal maintenance. The interlocking design of the pavers allows for natural ground movement, reducing the risk of cracks or breaks. This means you won’t have to replace your patio every few years, making it a cost-effective long-term investment. 

Resistance to Weather Conditions:

Paver patios are engineered to be highly resistant to various weather conditions. Whether you live in a region with hot summers, cold winters, or fluctuating temperatures, paver patios can handle it all. Their unique design allows them to expand and contract with temperature changes, preventing cracks that are common in other types of patios. They also offer excellent drainage, reducing the risk of water pooling and subsequent damage. This makes them ideal for areas prone to heavy rainfall, freeze-thaw cycles, or even minor seismic activity. 

Paver Patio Maintenance

Low Maintenance Requirements:

One of the most appealing features of paver patios is their low maintenance needs. Unlike wooden decks that require frequent staining or sealing or concrete patios that may need regular crack repair, paver patios are relatively hassle-free. Most of the time, all you’ll need to do is sweep away leaves, dirt, or other debris because pavers are made from durable materials like concrete, brick, or natural stone.

Easy to Repair and Replace:

Should a paver become damaged or stained, one of the advantages is that you don’t have to replace or repair the entire patio. You can remove the affected paver and replace it with a new one. This is not only cost-effective but also time-saving. In most cases, you can do this yourself without needing professional help, making it a convenient option for homeowners. This feature is particularly beneficial for those living in areas prone to extreme weather conditions, as individual pavers can be replaced after events like heavy storms or freeze-thaw cycles without needing a complete patio overhaul.

Paver Patio Aesthetic Appeal and Customization

#paver perfection #paver material #patio construction

Variety in Design:

Paver patios offer many design possibilities that are hard to match with other patio materials. Whether you’re aiming for a modern, sleek look or a more rustic, traditional style, there’s a paver to fit your vision. Pavers come in various shapes like squares, rectangles, and even irregular shapes for a more natural look. They also come in different sizes, allowing for intricate patterns or simpler, more uniform designs. The materials themselves—whether concrete, brick, or natural stone—come in a variety of colors and textures, giving you even more options to customize your outdoor space.

Visual Appeal:

The aesthetic appeal of a paver patio is undeniable. The richness of natural stone, the classic look of brick, or the clean lines of concrete pavers can elevate the appearance of any outdoor space. The ability to mix and match colors and shapes allows for unique patterns and designs that can be as simple or as elaborate as you wish. A well-designed paver patio can serve as a focal point for your yard, tying together other landscaping elements like gardens, lawns, and outdoor furniture.

Safety Features

Non-slip Surfaces:

One of the key safety features of paver patios is their non-slip surface. This is particularly important for outdoor spaces where the ground may become wet due to rain, spills, or pool splashes. The texture of pavers, whether they’re made of concrete, brick, or natural stone, provides added grip underfoot, reducing the risk of slips and falls. This makes paver patios a safe choice for homes with children, elderly family members, or anyone who values safety in their outdoor living space. Some pavers are even designed with special non-slip coatings for extra safety.

Resistance to Fire:

Another safety advantage of paver patios is their resistance to fire. Unlike wooden decks, which can be a fire hazard, pavers are made from materials that are naturally fire-resistant. This makes them a safer choice for activities that involve open flames or high heat, such as barbecues or fire pits. 

Environmental Benefits

Permeability and Water Drainage:

One of the environmental advantages of paver patios is their permeability. Unlike solid concrete slabs that can lead to water runoff, paver patios allow water to pass through the gaps between the pavers, facilitating natural drainage. This helps to reduce water pooling on the surface and prevents erosion in your yard. It also aids in replenishing groundwater levels and can even reduce the risk of flooding. Some types of pavers are specifically designed to be highly permeable, making them an excellent choice for eco-conscious homeowners.

Eco-friendly Options:

In addition to their natural permeability, paver patios offer several eco-friendly options for those looking to minimize their environmental impact. Some pavers are made from recycled or sustainable materials, reducing the need for new resources. For example, you can find pavers made from recycled concrete or reclaimed stone. 

Before You Install a paver patio

As the property owner with a paver patio, it is essential to ensure that the drainage system is adequate. This will prevent rainwater from accumulating under the patio or near your home’s foundation. If the drainage is insufficient, water may pool beneath the patio, causing the pavers to crack or sink. Usually, patios are designed to slope away from the house, which helps with water drainage. The general rule is to have a one-inch drop in elevation for every two feet of length. Therefore, it is crucial to double-check the drainage system multiple times to avoid any potential issues.

Prevent Weed Growth Between Pavers 

When installing pavers in your landscaping project, your hired professional may use a geotextile fabric to minimize weed growth. This fabric is placed between the soil and sand layer where the pavers will be set. To further prevent weeds, polymeric sand can be used between the pavers. This sand contains fine grains mixed with silica, which creates a strong bond when wet, ensuring weed prevention even during rain or watering plants.

Retain Extra Pavers: After the completion of your paver patio, it’s advisable to keep some spare pavers for future repairs or replacements.

Opt for Professional Installation:  Consider having your paver patio professionally installed to save time and avoid potential issues.

At BMA Landscaping, we are your best choice for paver patio installation. With our extensive experience, we can create any design that you have in mind. Our team of professionals is committed to delivering top-quality work that meets your specific needs and enhances the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space. 

Contact Us at: 443-620-4117

Are Paver Patios better than Concrete Patios?

The best choice between paver patios and concrete really depends on the intended use. If the primary purpose is decorative, such as creating an inviting outdoor living space, paver patios are an excellent choice due to their aesthetic versatility and design options. On the other hand, if the area will be used for heavy-duty purposes like parking multiple vehicles, concrete is likely a better option due to its strength and ability to handle heavy loads.

When are Paver Patios better:

1. Outdoor Living Spaces: For patios, fire pits, or outdoor kitchens where aesthetics are important.

2. Gardens and Landscaping: Pavers allow for more creative designs and can complement other landscaping elements.

3. Areas with Weather Fluctuations: Pavers are more resilient to freeze-thaw cycles and shifting ground.

4. Eco-Friendly Projects: Permeable pavers allow for better water drainage.

5. Small DIY Projects: Easier to install and replace, making them ideal for homeowners who like to update or change their outdoor spaces.

When are Concrete Patios better:

1. Heavy-Duty Use: Such as driveways where multiple vehicles will be parked.

2. Large, Uninterrupted Surfaces, Like basketball courts or large commercial spaces.

3. Budget Constraints: Concrete can be less expensive upfront, though it may require more maintenance long-term.

4. Industrial Settings: Where the strength of a single, solid slab is necessary.

5. Speed of Installation: Concrete can be quicker to install for certain large, simple projects.

How to choose Paver Patio Contractors?

1. Experience: Look for contractors with a track record of successfully installing paver patios, preferably with several years of experience.

2. Portfolio: Ask for examples of their previous work. Photos or site visits can give you a good idea of the quality and style of their projects.

3. References: Request and check references to hear about other customers’ experiences. This can provide insights into the contractor’s reliability and quality of work.

4. Licenses and Insurance: Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured to protect yourself from any potential legal issues.

5. Materials: Discuss the types of pavers that will be used and make sure they are of high quality. The contractor should be knowledgeable about the pros and cons of different materials.

6 Timeline: Ask about the project timeline, including the start date, milestones, and estimated completion date.

9. Contract: Always get a written contract that outlines the scope of work, materials to be used, and payment terms.

10. Warranty: Check if the contractor offers a warranty on their work and the materials used. This can save you money if repairs are needed later.

11. Communication: Pay attention to the contractor’s communication style. They should be easy to reach, open to your ideas, and clear in their explanations.

At BMA Landscaping, we’re proud to meet all the above criteria for choosing a reliable and skilled paver patio contractor. With years of experience, a portfolio of successful projects, and glowing references, we can deliver top-quality work. We are fully licensed and insured, offer competitive quotes, and use only the highest-quality materials. Our team is committed to sticking to the agreed-upon timeline and providing a warranty for our work. Most importantly, we prioritize open and clear communication with our clients and are always available to answer any questions you may have.

Contact Us at: 443-620-4117