With spring time and barbecue season quickly approaching, many people are starting to think of ways to improve their outdoor entertaining areas (patios), to create a relaxing oasis for their friends and family for the coming summer months. Replacing old cracked, dull concrete is often high on the list of things to consider. If replacing your existing patio concrete is something you are considering and are not sure what the options are when it comes to patio pavers, please allow us to introduce some of them to you. Engineered by the early Romans, patio pavers have proven that the flexible interlocking system is the strongest and longest lasting paving method known to man.
Modern patio pavers are stronger than ever, with a mandatory compliance strength rating of 8,000 pounds per square inch (compared to 2,500 of standard concrete) paving stones will not crack when the earth starts to shake. When installed correctly, and by a licensed contractor, most manufacturers will back up their product with a lifetime warranty against cracking or breaking. This means for as long as you own your home, you can be confident your patio will not crack like your old concrete has done.
Aesthetics play a large role in the decision process for homeowners when it comes to choosing between traditional concrete and patio pavers. Pavers offer many things that concrete does not. Simply because they are a modular system they have flexibility in their design and can be manufactured in many different shapes, sizes, colors and textures. Blending colors and textures can truly optimize the custom look and feel of your entertaining area in ways that no one would have imaged 20 or 30 years ago. Today’s patio pavers design options have the ability to make suburban back yards look like fine resorts. Patio pavers can be used for pool decks, walkways, steps, walls, driveways, mow strips and the list goes on.
The cost associated with patio pavers gives added assurance that it is a valuable investment. With an installed price bracket of $7.50 – $12 per square foot (depending on many factors), a homeowner can get what they want for a price comparable to, or better than, any alternative pavement type. Improving your home in general is a sound investment, why not improve it with something that offers an unmatched appearance, is affordable, and will last a lifetime?
There are 6 main manufacturers that supply San Diego and southern California with paving stones and landscape retaining walls. Belgard, RCP, Angelus, Ackerstone, Orco and Olsen all manufacture beautiful, strong and stylish pavers. RCP being the only locally owned and operated manufacturer in San Diego has a relatively inexpensive paver called ‘Stone Top’ this is one of the most purchased stones by homeowners in San Diego. It has a uniquely textured surface and allows you the option of a 1 stone, 2 stone, or 3 stone pattern. RCP block offers theirStone Top paver in 6 nicely blended colors that go great with any homes exterior finish color.
