| By :
Nick Messe
Most of us don't pay much attention to our driveways, and if we do it is to seal the cracks in the asphalt or spray some pesticide on those pesky weeds that sprout up. We also have to worry about the frost heave and our concrete driveways. What if those expansion joints aren't big enough? Driveway problems can become expensive very quickly. But what if you could have a driveway that was not only functional and simple to maintain but beautiful as well? What about a patio that stayed beautiful year after year with little to no work? Would you like to install beautiful walkways that add to the appeal of your yard and home? Interlocking pavers can be the answer. They are small pieces of stained concrete that are laid in an attractive pattern over a bed of gravel without mortar. They can be moved, removed, and replaced without damaging the integrity of your driveway or patio. Pavers come in a wide array of colors, sizes, and configurations, making the artistic possibilities of using them almost endless. Natural stone can also be used in the same way, using the same techniques. Driveways made this way are extremely durable, easily supporting vehicle weight without cracking or breaking. They do not need expansion joints and are resistant to oil and other leaks. They retain less heat than asphalt, and they are beautiful, adding tremendous curb appeal to your home. Walkways and patios can also be fashioned from pavers, resulting in attractive and durable additions to your landscape. Patios need only be rinsed or swept occasionally to keep them looking great, and they are gentler on the feet than some amalgams such as tabby or macadam. Walkways can be shaped in any configuration you can imagine, allowing you to design your dream yard or garden easily. Some beautiful projects have been created using pavers and natural stone in combination. A gently curving walkway flanked by a low natural stone wall, landscaped with year-round blooms, has a timeless beauty that everyone will appreciate. Paved driveways are a great selling point for houses, as people are attracted not only to the beauty but the integrity of these structures. The process for installing pavers is not a job for the amateur. The area to be paved must be graded, filled with a sub-layer of gravel, and the pieces placed in the desired pattern. After installation, sand must be spread over the surface and tamped into the cracks to ensure they do not move and to inhibit weed growth. A good paving contractor can install your pavers wherever you would like them and take the hassle out of project planning.
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