Installing any type of hardscape project takes several things into account: budget, work site, tools, labor, material, and of course, time. As they say, time is money – so what’s the real cost-benefit behind your investment? How long do pavers last?
In this article, we aim to give you an answer to that. Keep reading to know which pavers share the best lifespan on the market!
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So, how long do pavers last?
First of all, any high-end paver project can last at least a century (50 to 100 years) under proper care and maintenance – as seen in the streets of Ancient Rome, whose streets of paving stones outlasted even the empire itself. You know, there’s a reason why we use this product to this day.
That said, the exact durability of your project will depend mostly on the type of material used. Here, we’ll go over the five main types of pavers across the U.S., which include porcelain, brick, concrete, travertine, and cobblestone.
- Porcelain pavers: This material – a mix of dense clay and some additives – is so versatile it’s crazy. Be it on driveways, front yards, or patios, porcelain doesn’t need to be sealed and can last for 50 years with ease.
- Brick pavers: The traditional favorites are very durable, too. Made from baked clay and molded into a dense rectangular shape, bricks are fireproof and perfect additions to vehicle areas, lasting at least 30 years before showing signs of aging. The only downside to their composition is that it starts to break down over time, causing the product to flake and erode.
- Concrete pavers: Concrete is perfect for any outdoor activity and that is a fact. Although available in many forms – including concrete slabs and poured cement – its paver variation can last from 25 to 50 years before actually eroding. They’ll have to be switched at some point, but that’s way down the line.
- Travertine pavers: Elegance and waterproof properties are not the only benefits of travertine. Under proper care (more on that in a bit), these pavers can have a lifespan of 100 years.
- Cobblestone: This one is, by far, the longest-lasting paver from ordinary quarries. Virtually indestructible, this natural stone is found in most villages around the world, resisting immeasurable weights. Cobblestone is the only item in this article that requires minimal maintenance to survive for centuries.
Factors to consider
We all know that no manmade structure can withstand the test of time by itself. After all, climate conditions and temperature changes can drastically alter the look and inner components of pavers, especially when there’s heavy traffic involved.
Therefore, the basic tips to prevent major maintenance costs from things like cracks, chips, color fading, and ant infestations are all related to a weekly cleaning routine. Below, you can check out a few of our professional recommendations:
- have a professional installation, always;
- apply a sealant to porous pavers every six months;
- regularly wash off debris and stains that settle on the floor;
- remove mold, weed, and moss growth with the right methods;
- use non-abrasive cleaning products;
- constantly check for external damage, especially after rain;
- keep an eye out for shifting and sunken pavers.
As you can see, there are many ways to save yourself some money on the maintenance of your pavers. However, eventual damages are inevitable – it doesn’t matter how meticulous you are as a person – and when they happen, the best course of action is to call up your nearest hardscape expert.
Professionals, by the way, will do everything in their power to avoid any problems in the first place. With great supervision, soil excavation, edging installation, and even permeability solutions, your project is sure to outlast your house – regardless of the material used.
S&S Pavers can give you a durable installation!
Over 12 years in the hardscape business, our team has dealt with many homeowners in many different situations – and we know how tricky the whole installation process can be. As such, we always recommend hiring a professional in your area whom you can trust!
With that said, if you happen to be around our area of activity, the Sarasota and Manatee counties, in Florida, why not give us a call to help you out?
You can contact us any time for a free estimate of our services – call us right now at 941-773-3098 or email us at sales@sspavers.com. We would be more than happy to help you with any hardscape needs you might have, including supply, installation, and maintenance services.
Check out our trusted, durable selection of Belgard pavers here!
