Sidewalks are an important part of your yard – not only for navigating the areas within your property but also for enhancing curb appeal. But, when was the last time you carefully assessed the condition of the pathways leading to your fire fit, gazebo, or seating area?
If you haven’t done that in ages, then maybe now is the time. The chances are that some if not all parts of your sidewalks or pathways will need replacement.
When it comes to replacing or installing new sidewalks, there’s another crucial decision to make – picking the right building material. With many homeowners leaning towards brick pavers, it’s easy to assume you too are considering it for your sidewalk.
Are brick pavers the best option for your sidewalk?
Brick pavers have become a sought after building material for sidewalks, patios, and steps. They offer what conventional concrete or many other materials can’t. There several reasons that make both residential and commercial property owners gravitate towards pavers. The most common include:
-Brick pavers provide an unmatched aesthetic appeal
-Brick pavers are highly versatile in terms of design
-Brick pavers have abrasive surfaces with excellent slip-resistant properties
-Brick pavers are available in a variety of natural colors
While paver bricks can bring out the best in your property, you might want to look past the benefits before making a decision. It’s imperative to understand the different types of paver materials available by evaluating them individually to determine what’s best for your sidewalk.
Brick Paver Options For Sidewalks
Most professionals would recommend either concrete or clay brick pavers for your sidewalks.
Concrete pavers
Concrete pavers are known to hold out well against natural and man-made elements or conditions that cause wear and tear. Installing this type of pavers is a fairly straightforward task that doesn’t even require a mortar. You simply interlock the pavers. The interlocked bricks create very durable sidewalks or pathways. And, unlike pouring concrete and waiting several days for curing, concrete brick pavers are ready for use once they have been installed.
Concrete brick pavers come in a variety of colors, shapes, sizes, textures, and thicknesses to suit different building needs. You can even have the pavers customized to match your unique style.
However, please note that concrete pavers will lose their luster as the artificial pigments fade. With time you’ll end up with the less attractive colors of gravel and sand. The paver surfaces usually wear down in about 5 to 10 years.
Clay Pavers
Clay pavers have been around a little longer than the concrete bricks. They are extremely durable. Yes, they can last up to a hundred years! You will find many old brick roads around many towns in the US that are still intact after several decades of service.
The clay bricks are also lauded for their natural color strength. They can maintain color throughout their lifespan because the color runs through the entire brick.
When you install the clay bricks, they can maintain the interlocking form even when the underlying earth and materials move. The pavers also have an authentic textured surface with abrasive characteristics.
Final Word
Deciding the best type of brick paver for your sidewalk should not be a big problem. If you are not sure of the ideal option, then consider consulting with professionals.
Schedule a Quote from JJW Brick Today!
Give JJW Brick a call today for your Metro Detroit, MI home. We can be reached at 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.