You’ve got a backyard project brewing. Maybe it’s a sleek patio, a cozy walkway, or a driveway built to last. You know pavers are the way to go—but there’s a catch. With so many options, how do you pick the right one?
Let’s make it simple. Here’s a breakdown of 13 types of pavers based on material, plus what makes each one great (or not so great).
What Exactly Are Pavers?
Think of pavers as the building blocks of your outdoor spaces. They’re flat, sturdy, and versatile, designed for patios, driveways, or walkways.
Pavers come in all shapes, sizes, and materials—like concrete, brick, stone, or even recycled plastic. The options are endless, but so is the confusion.
1. Concrete Pavers
- Why They’re Great: Affordable, durable, and available in tons of shapes and colors. Perfect for driveways, patios, and walkways.
- Watch Out For: They’ll need resealing every 3–5 years if you want that fresh look.
2. Brick Pavers
- Why They’re Great: Classic red tones that don’t fade, and they’re just as durable as they look.
- Watch Out For: Limited color options and potential cracking in cold climates.
3. Limestone Pavers
- Why They’re Great: Timeless, natural beauty with a smooth finish. Affordable for a stone option.
- Watch Out For: Prone to stains and needs sealing every few years.
4. Flagstone Pavers
- Why They’re Great: Irregular, rustic shapes that create non-slip surfaces—ideal for patios and walkways.
- Watch Out For: Costs can run high, and it’s not the easiest to install.
5. Bluestone Pavers
- Why They’re Great: Durable and visually striking, with shades of blue and gray.
- Watch Out For: It absorbs heat, so it’s not barefoot-friendly in summer. Also pricey.
6. Marble Pavers
- Why They’re Great: Luxury vibes with unmatched elegance.
- Watch Out For: Slippery when wet, stains easily, and comes with a hefty price tag.
7. Travertine Pavers
- Why They’re Great: Warm earthy tones and naturally slip-resistant. A budget-friendly stone option.
- Watch Out For: Dirt can settle in the pores, and they need frequent sealing.
8. Porcelain Tile Pavers
- Why They’re Great: Mimics natural stone without the maintenance. Stain-resistant and sleek.
- Watch Out For: Fragile during installation and can get slippery.
9. Cobblestone Pavers
- Why They’re Great: European charm and durability for decades. Low maintenance.
- Watch Out For: Installation takes time (and skill). Also on the pricier side.
10. Rubber Pavers
- Why They’re Great: Eco-friendly, slip-resistant, and easy on the feet.
- Watch Out For: Not as durable as stone and prone to UV damage.
11. Gravel
- Why They’re Great: Affordable and super simple to install. Excellent drainage.
- Watch Out For: Uneven surfaces and limited design options.
12. Granite Pavers
- Why They’re Great: Weather-resistant and classy. Can be custom-cut.
- Watch Out For: Very expensive and may require anti-slip treatment.
13. Plastic Pavers
- Why They’re Great: Lightweight, affordable, and recyclable.
- Watch Out For: Less durable and can fade over time.
Choosing Based on Style
Not sure about the material? Focus on style instead:
- Interlocking Pavers: Fit together like a puzzle—great for stability.
- Tumbled Pavers: Rustic, weathered look.
- Smooth Pavers: Sleek and modern.
- Textured Pavers: Anti-slip for high-traffic areas.
Quick Tips by Project:
- Driveways: Concrete, brick, or cobblestone for durability.
- Walkways: Flagstone, granite, or concrete for non-slip surfaces.
- Patios: Concrete for versatilGravestone Materials: A Look at Imported Stones
Hey there! Ever stopped to wonder what kind of stone was used for a gravestone you’ve seen? Or maybe you’re planning one and trying to figure out the best material?
Turns out, more people are thinking about this these days. And for good reason—choosing the right stone isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about durability, history, and a touch of personal preference.
Let’s dive into the world of gravestone materials, focusing on imported stones that are gaining popularity.
Stones 101: Domestic vs. Imported
Gravestones generally fall into two categories: domestic and imported stones. Each type comes with its own unique vibe, price tag, and durability factors.
While domestic stones often carry a sense of local heritage, imported stones have been making waves for their distinct qualities and competitive pricing. Today, we’ll zoom in on a few imported varieties that are worth your attention.
| Stone Name | Origin | Hardness | Water Absorption |
|---|---|---|---|
| Impala Blue | South Africa | High | Very Low |
| Yeongju Stone | South Korea | High | High |
| Portuguese Granite | Portugal | High | Low |
| G688 (Shin Aoba) | China | High | Low |
1. Impala Blue
- Origin: South Africa
- Hardness: High
- Water Absorption: Very low
Why it’s a big deal:
Impala Blue is a rare gem—literally. Its hardness and low water absorption mean it’s built to last, making it a favorite for Japanese-style graves. The catch? It’s not easy to source in large quantities, which only adds to its allure.
2. Yeongju Stone
- Origin: South Korea
- Hardness: High
- Water Absorption: High
What stands out:
This stone boasts a fine, uniform grain and excellent drainage. It’s tough yet elegant, often chosen for projects where quality matters. You’ll find it in many long-lasting structures, proving it’s a solid (pun intended) choice.
3. Portuguese Granite
- Origin: Portugal
- Hardness: High
- Water Absorption: Low
Why people love it:
Portuguese granite is like the cousin of Impala Blue—durable and resistant to water. In Japan, it’s a go-to for traditional stone towers and rust-resistant designs. Bonus points for its timeless appeal.
4. G688 (aka Shin Aoba)
- Origin: China
- Hardness: High
- Water Absorption: Low
What makes it special:
This stone mimics the look of Japan’s iconic Aoba stone but comes with an affordable price tag. Its subtle surface makes carvings less noticeable, so it’s often used for fences and minimalist designs.
The Takeaway
With rising demand and dwindling domestic production, imported stones are stepping up. They offer a mix of durability, affordability, and style.
At Rahmat Jaya, we understand every project has its own needs—budget, design preferences, or material type. So, if you’re considering a gravestone project or just curious, feel free to reach out. Let’s talk stones!
ity or travertine for a natural vibe.
The Final Word
Pavers are like shoes for your outdoor spaces. Choose the ones that fit your style, budget, and needs. Whether you go for timeless cobblestones or sleek porcelain tiles, the right choice will elevate your space—and your curb appeal.