Types of Patio Blocks in Ohio

Definition

• Patio block is a general term for what is actually a broad assortment of paving stones used to construct walls, walkways and patios. Blocks available from Ohio dealers can be brick-shaped, square, hexagonal, round or curved. They can also be flat and irregularly shaped, like fieldstones, steppingstones or pieces of slate. Any type of stone can be incorporated into a patio pattern, but flat blocks are easier to work with from a planning standpoint.

Traditional Pavers

• Patio blocks, also called pavers, are traditionally cast from concrete, clay or cut from slate. Many Ohio companies, such as Reading Rock in Cincinnati, Snyder Concrete Products in Dayton and other locations, carry full lines of pavers in all materials suitable for small projects to large jobs. You can use a single color or opt for a multicolored pattern such as a blend that combines charcoal with terra cotta or another that combines charcoal with sandstone. Blocks can also be used singly or combined with other shapes for a more unique effect.

Other Styles and Shapes

• Other types of patio blocks include textured that give the appearance of a rough stone surface, and tumbled pavers, which have edges that are rounded rather than sharp. Square shapes measure from 5.5 inches to 6.25 inches, while rectangular shapes measure from 8.25 inches long to 11 inches long. Specific groupings of pation blocks feature a variety of shapes including 6-by-6-inch, 6-by-12-inch and 12-by-12-inch multicolored pavers designed to be used together to create more varied patterns.

Permeable Pavers

• Permeable patio blocks are designed to provide a solid foundation for foot traffic while allowing for maximum drainage of rainwater and snow melt. Permeable pavers are constructed from materials such as porous concrete that allow rain to seep slowly through them, while others are installed to allow for small gaps between them for drainage. This feature eliminates puddles of standing water that can damage the paver base over time and that may make your patio unusable on wet days.

Composite Pavers

• Made entirely from materials recycled from scrap tires and plastic bottles, VAST composite pavers last longer, fade less, are lighter to handle, provide better slip resistance in wet and dry conditions, are easy to work with as they can be cut with wood saws, and install easily using a grid system. They are also covered by a 10-year limited warranty, as well as a lifetime warranty against cracking.