Precast pavers are a type of building material used in outdoor paving projects. These paving stones serve as an alternative to stone or brick paving, and offer a number of advantages over these traditional types of paving methods. Precast pavers consist of cement, sand, and gravel pressed into shallow blocks or bricks. They share many characteristics with poured concrete, but are available in many colors and styles to complement many different home designs.
These paving stones can be used in any application where concrete or stone would traditionally be used to pave a surface. They are a popular option for home patios and pathways, and can also be used to create landscaping features and walkways within a yard or garden. Precast pavers can also be used to create strong and durable driveways or parking lots. Both residential and commercial customers rely on precast pavers to take the place of poured concrete or expensive paving stones.
Contractors typically install precast pavers without the use of grout or mortar. Some of these pavers are designed to interlock, which allows for a tight and secure installation. Others are butted together, then the joints between the stones are filled with sand to keep dirt and debris out of the paved area. These pavers may be installed on the surface of the earth or partially buried so that only the top of the paver is visible above the soil. Large-scale paving applications may require a subsoil support base from from stone or gravel to ensure a durable and long-lasting installation.
Precast pavers offer a wide variety of design options to complement almost any type of home décor. These pavers come in different shapes, including squares and rectangles, as well as round and other geometric shapes. They may be arranged in many patterns, including herringbone or parquet designs, as well as the traditional running bond layout. Manufacturers may also use dyes when producing these stones in order to add color to the concrete. After installation is complete, contractors can apply special stains or dyes to the surface to further refine the color and finish.
One of the primary advantages to using precast pavers is their low cost compared to solid stone paving materials. These pavers also feature a consistent, regular shape and cut that makes them easy to install successfully. Finally, concrete pavers offer a great deal of natural strength and durability to withstand years of use with little to no maintenance.