Cobblestones, the trump charm to develop its exteriors
You want to build a terrace or a driveway to facilitate traffic in front of your house or in your garden? Robust, with a very long service life, pavers are a choice surface, with outdoor spaces requiring materials that can withstand all weather conditions. However, there is no need to put aesthetics aside: versatile but always elegant, pavers know how to adapt to all styles to create the atmosphere that suits you.
A variety of shapes, colors and finishes
First of all, we advise you to ask the question of the functionality of your future driveway or terrace. Is it intended for pedestrian use, or will the surface be serviceable? The finish and the color of the pavement will be important for the final rendering, but also in terms of comfort.
On the aesthetic side, the possibilities are many. While curved and porous pavers will bring an old and warm look, those with a smooth finish are more modern and adapted to contemporary constructions. Be careful, however, of surfaces that are too smooth, which could be slippery. Regarding the colors, the offer is also wide: from white to black, through blue, green or pink.
to each desire his answer
The different products offered in DIY stores are distinguished by the materials from which they are made. There are three main families:
• Natural stone pavers:
they respond to the "raw" trend of the moment. Granite, sandstone, porphyry, quartzite ... These minerals reconcile resistance in time and aesthetics. The nobility of the stone will produce its small effect in all styles of exteriors, as well for a driveway as a terrace. Prices are however very variable from one range to another.
• Reconstructed stone pavers:
according to their level of quality, they mimic more or less natural stones. The value for money is interesting, provided you do not prefer cobblestones prices.
• Concrete paving: It also rides on the trend of raw material, and in addition, it is economical! This is the type of paving that offers the best value for money. It exists in all shapes, sizes and colors.
Garden, garage or entrance, pavers are universal
Practical, the garden paths create perspective, allow to circulate between the vegetation and add a bucolic charm to small as to large spaces. They are generally intended for pedestrian use: the choice of paving is therefore greatly facilitated, the constraints being less important.
For a wider driveway to a front door or garage door to accommodate vehicles, the pavers must be thick enough, at least 6 centimeters, to support the weight of a car and prevent them from cracking with the weather. Also think of draining pavements, which let stagnant water flow to avoid flooding in case of heavy rainfall.
And for a terrace?
Even if fashion is wood, making the choice of paving for its terrace is an investment longevity. It also has the advantage of ensuring continuity between the house and the garden, offers a clear rendering and visually enlarges the space.
Regarding the preferred material, the reconstituted stone is ideal and will protect the terrace frost and snow. Think about it especially if your home is located in a zone frequently subjected to this type of weather.