Blend in with the architecture and landscapingBe easy to walk onNot be slipperyEasy to maintainWeather-resistantHelp with easy, fast drainage
Surfacing Materials for Patios, Paths and Paved Areas
In some regions where drought is a concern or native and drought-tolerant landscaping is preferred, paving materials are a smarter choice than thirsty lawns. Other types of materials for outdoor applications include:
Concrete Pavers Flagstone Tiles Decomposed Granite, or DG Brick Loose materials, like rocks and pebbles Wood Adobe block
Keep in mind you can also mix two or three of the above materials to break things up visually, offer contrast in color, shape and texture. This slideshow provides a look at the wide variety of paving and surfacing materials available. Of couse, there are numerous types out there—this gallery only begins to cover it. Slabs of square, rectangular and circular concrete get a textural treatment with aggregate—a mixture of rock fragments—that is embedded in the paver. The process is called “seeded” aggregate, which involves embedding various colors of rocks and stones in the concrete. Seeded aggregate pavers are often available in different shades, like browns, grays, tans, blacks, etc. Consider where these bricks would be used in your yard. If surrounding a swimming pool or spa, this type of brick would not be comfortable for the bare feet walking across them. However, a textured brick would be fine for a patio. Different looks are achievable with the variety of colors and laying patterns available. This pattern is the Circle Fan pattern, a traditional “Old World” style that works well with certain types of architecture. What are the special ingredients in concrete blocks? They’re usually a mixture of powdered Portland cement, water, sand and gravel. The concrete mixture used for blocks uses more sand, less gravel and less water than the concrete mixtures used for general construction purposes. A standard block weighs around 40 pounds, and the standard size block is 8 inches h x 8 inches d x 16 inches w. Q: When is the best time of year to pour concrete? The Answer
Crab Orchard Blue-GrayOzark MountainCanyon CreekMochaChestnutArizona OakPennsylvania Bluestone
