Concrete pavers are a successful and broadly accepted building material used to pave driveways, walkways, patios, and other surfaces. Commonly called “cement pavers,” it is noteworthy that the term is a misnomer, and an inaccurate label. Cement, most commonly Portland- cement, is a primary ingredient in all concrete, but not the only one. Other concrete components are sand, aggregate such as gravel, and water, including various other additives that lend color and bolster certain performance features.
Concrete Pavers:
Concrete 24×24 patio pavers are composed of dry concrete mix containing cement, sand, gravel, and pigments. In the manufacturing process, the wet mixture is poured into molds of various shapes and sizes, and then vibrated to compress the concrete before curing can take place. The outcome of such a manufacturing process is pavers capable of withstanding at least 8,000 pounds per square inch of pressure, in comparison with 3,000 pounds per square inch of pressure with standard poured concrete. High standards of quality are maintained in the manufacturing process, the resultant outcome being durable, uniform products that can create stronger driveways than when fashioned from poured concrete. There is often a lifetime warranty attached to them for the sake of integrity.
The Costs
The cost of concrete 24×24 patio pavers can vary significantly, with installation costs being on the higher side. Professional installation using top-quality pavers can cost anywhere from $39 to $40 per square foot, depending on the size and style. This is a labor-intensive project, and not recommended as a do it yourself type of project.
Maintenance And Repair
Not much effort is required in the maintenance of concrete paver driveways. It requires occasional brushing, cleaning, and cleansing with water from a hose to keep them in immaculate condition. Weeds can be removed as soon as they appear if they find their way to the surface. Stains can be gotten rid of with the aid of a concrete cleaner, but one needs to check with the manufacturer for recommendations. The smooth surface on concrete pavers can degrade over time, especially when subjected to anti-ice salt. Regular application of a sealer can, help in salvaging the pavers from these effects to a certain degree. In the event of tree roots, frost heave, or settling causing damage to a section of the driveway, it is easy to remove the affected pavers, fix the underlying problem, and piece together and recondition the driveway. A well-installed and well-maintained concrete paver driveway can typically last anywhere between 25 and 50 years.
Style And Configuration:
While natural stone pavers are regarded as the top of the line and high-end paving material, concrete pavers are the next best thing and come immediately after and can be compared to clay brick pavers in matters of prestige and status. Although not as hardy as authentic cobblestone, concrete pavers are more long-lasting and resilient than clay brick pavers. Concrete pavers come in a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes and work well with almost any home design, but they tend to be relatively uniform in matters of appearance. Natural cobblestones or clay brick pavers have more visual beauty and appeal and are better suited to giving face-lifts and makeovers to older, more vintage, ageless, classic home styles.
