Do Outdoor Patio Pavers Weather Over Time?

Pavers

• In many ways, pavers are more flexible than flat surfaces like poured concrete when it comes to resisting the wear of weather and feet over time. Since they are in sections, water can seep down between the spaces of the pavers and soak into the ground or freeze in places where they cause minimal damage. However, pavers are subject to some wear after several years. Fine cracks tend to develop, and depending on the paver, they can crumble or break apart over time.

Weather

• The wear of pavers depends largely on the type of climate they are set in. Some climates are far harsher to pavers than others. Climates that experience hot summers and cold winters will break down pavers more easily than weather conditions in other areas. Climates that receive a lot of rain will also cause disintegration in certain types of tile more easily than others.

Natural Pavers

• Natural pavers are those made from real stone, such as flagstone and fieldstone. These pavers are large and tend to be more expensive. Since they are of varying sizes, these stones are usually more difficult to install as a level patio than other options, but they provide a quality look to the landscaping project and tend to resist water much better than synthetic options. Natural pavers are best suited for sharp changes in temperature, such as very cold or very hot conditions.

Synthetic Pavers

• Synthetic pavers are those produced in factories and include concrete, ceramic tiles, and brick. Overall, these tiles are cheaper and easier to install, but also tend to be more difficult to maintain over long periods of time. These pavers are made out of small bits of stone and bonding elements that tend to break down and develop cracks or crumble more easily. Some people in desert conditions may prefer synthetic options because they can reduce glare or displace more heat than natural versions.

Bases

• The base, or the material that the tiles are set into, is a very important component to paver life. Sand and gravel can help the pavers stay whole longer, although they tend to shift over time and the base must be regularly tended. Concrete and mortar bases will allow the shape of the patio to be permanent, but they can develop cracks more easily.