How to Choose the Right Interlock Pavers
With the broad range of options for pavers, making the right selection can be a daunting task.
There are a multitude of colours, materials and different styles to choose from. And the size. Should you go with large or small, thick or thin? The choice comes down to a few factors: application, size and shape of your space and the ambience you want to create.
Application: Walkway, Patio or Driveway?
For pedestrian traffic areas, pavers that are either 2” or 2 ⅜” (60mm) thick are recommended.
For vehicular traffic areas, pavers that are at least of 2 ¾” up to 3 ⅛” (80mm) thick are recommended.
Thinner pavers aren’t able to withstand the weight of a vehicle and can crack under the pressure.
Size and Shape:
Generally speaking, the size of paver stones should relate to the size of the area you are paving. Smaller pavers are better suited for smaller spaces and larger pavers for larger areas.
Smaller pavers give greater design flexibility. They also have the ability to make an intimate patio feel more spacious. Larger pavers have a heavier footprint and can make a small space feel smaller.
If you have a larger patio or pool deck area, large format pavers will give you a clean, sleek appearance. Large pavers have fewer joint lines to break up the surface. Fewer joints makes your patio or pool deck appear more expansive.
Ambiance - Colour and Feel of the Space:
With all the paver and wall colours available, it can be hard to decide which colour will work with your home.
Let’s look at some of the dos and don’ts of choosing colours for your pavers and walls.
Don’t use the exact colour as your home.Choosing the same colour will create a monotone look. Instead, try to stay within the colour “tone”.
Do consider the location of your pavers.Different colours are better suited for different applications. Lighter colours are better for pool decks and sun drenched areas. They absorb less heat from the sun and are more comfortable for bare feet. A darker colour may be better for driveways or outdoor kitchen areas that are prone to stains and spills.
Don’t feel you have to match pavers and walls.While it is possible to match the colour of pavers and walls, using colour to differentiate the two is smart.
Do use border and accent colour.Try tying the colour of your hardscape to your home by matching border and/or accent colours. If your home is brown but you want to use grey pavers, use a brown border or accent to create unity in the design.
Don’t rely on the colours in the printed catalogue/website!The colours you see in the catalogue or on the website can be very different in real life. Visit our yard to see our display of sample pavers!
You want to make sure what you choose is something you will like for years to come, so don’t rush the process. And don't forget about how they will up your curb appeal.