How to Choose Stone Pavers for Your Home's Outdoor Area
Stone pavers can be a great choice for any home's outdoor area, as the natural material of stone is easy to fit into a garden or patio area while keeping a rustic look. Stone is also rough and rugged so it holds up well against foot traffic as well as bikes, grills on wheels, and anything else that might be run over the pavers. Because there is such a wide variety of stone pavers available, you want to ensure you choose the right type that will work well for your outdoor area and last for years. Note a few tips to keep in mind before you shop.
1. Surface
Some varieties of stone are very pitted and may have a rough, uneven surface. This can make them look very natural and also add visual interest. However, this can also make them a poor choice for a patio or any area where you may want to set up furniture or anything else that needs a level surface. For these spaces, opt for slate or limestone or another choice that is completely flat; some stone may also be sandblasted to create a level surface. Do the same for pavers where you may have lots of foot traffic, as an uneven surface can mean a tripping hazard.
2. Water damage and slippage
If your outdoor area is near a pool, you actually need to consider the material of the stone. If it contains large amounts of iron ore, such as with sandstone, it can actually start to rust after being exposed to water from a pool. This rust can be unsightly and even spread to the nearby topsoil and groundwater; if the stone is near flowerbeds and shrubbery, it can damage their roots and even cause your flowers to die. Smooth surfaces like limestone, mentioned above, may also be dangerous when wet as they may be more slippery, so opt for something with a bit of traction for use around a pool.
3. Sun damage
While most stone is meant to hold up to the rigors of extreme temperatures, some will actually suffer sun damage when installed in tropical areas or hot and dry areas that include near-constant sunlight. A good choice for these terrains is a stone that has been treated with an aggregate, which is a mixture of small pebbles, gravel, or soft glass. These materials provide a covering for the stone and keep it from looking weathered or pitted over time.