In Australia, there are three main types of pavers; natural stone, brick and concrete. The paver you choose for your home will depend on many factors, including potential foot traffic, climate and your desired design.
However, there are more than 6 types of natural stone pavers in Australia, so knowing choosing the right type of paver can get tricky. Some of the styles of paver you can choose from include:
- Granite.
- Porphyry.
- Travertine.
- Marble.
- Limestone.
- Sandstone.
- Bluestone.
- Basalt.
And more.
To help you choose a paver you won’t regret later, we’ve narrowed it down to the 3 most popular types of pavers in Australia. You’ll find the different pavers, their pros, cons and pricing, and if you’re still in doubt, where to get more advice near you.
Photo by DDP on Unsplash
3 Most Popular Types of Pavers in Australia
1. Natural stone pavers.
Natural stone pavers are a great way to turn your backyard into a modern masterpiece. Not only are natural stone pavers stylish, they’re also practical.
Pros of natural stone pavers:
Natural stone pavers come in a wide variety of colours, sizes and textures, so there’s guaranteed to be a paver to suit your home. This type of stone is also likely to increase the value of your property thanks to its rarity and installation costs.
Speaking of installation costs, natural stone traditionally takes less time to install as it’s cut to precise dimensions.
Cons of natural stone pavers:
Unfortunately, natural stone pavers have a tendency to absorb moisture, which can lead to cracks and other damage. To prevent this, aim to only use natural stone pavers in dry areas of your yard i.e. not around the pool.
Arguably the largest downfall of stone pavers is the cost. Depending on the type of natural stone used and surface to be paved, the price varies greatly however it will almost certainly be more expensive than other types of pavers.
Types of natural stone pavers:
- Granite.
- Limestone.
- Travertine.
- Bluestone Cobble.
- Marble.
- Sandstone.
Cost of natural stone pavers:
The price of natural stone pavers will depend on the type and cut, but you’re looking at anywhere from $5 to $100+ per metre squared. You may also need to take into account delivery fees for the stones, material costs and labour.
2. Brick pavers.
Bricks are a foundation of many Australian homes. From walls to driveways and flooring, they’re the essence of many Australian homes. So, it’s no surprise they’re one of the most popular types of paving stone materials in the country.
Pros of brick pavers:
Not only are brick pavers low cost, they’re also durable — typically lasting 25 years or more in the average Australian driveway. Bricks may sound like a boring design choice, but you’d be surprised at the range of colours and shapes they come in. With the right contractor by your side, you can make stunning patterns with your brick pavers.
The best part about brick paving is the colouring rarely fades, even when exposed to sun. Bricks are also environmentally friendly for multiple reasons. They are made from natural resources and are often able to be repaired or recycled, so this could be something to factor in if you plan to live where you are for a while.
Cons of brick pavers:
Brick pavers can be susceptible to cracking and breaking when placed under repeated pressure for long periods of time. They can become expensive, especially when adding customised colouring and imprints. This type of paving can also be tricky to install, especially on slopes or uneven ground.
How much do brick pavers cost?
Brick pavers are one of the most cost-effective paving solutions. Paving a driveway with standard brick can cost as little as $55 per square meter. Naturally, cost does increase with customisation including colouring and size. Remember, these costs do not include labour.
3. Concrete pavers
Concrete pavers are a popular choice amongst Australian home owners. This is because their customisation ability is unmatched. From hot pink to grey, any colour is possible with concrete paving. They require very little maintenance and can be easily cleaned with a pressure hose.
Pros of concrete pavers:
Concrete pavers are the cheapest options for those looking to update their paving. Due to how they are made concrete pavers are extremely customisable, coming in almost every colour or shape you can imagine. Concrete is also highly durable, meaning there is no need to worry about cracking your concrete.
Cons of concrete pavers:
The most common complaint of concrete paving owners is fading colouring. Concrete, especially when exposed to excessive sunlight, is unfortunately prone to fading. The only way to stop concrete paving from fading is to apply a sealant to the surface. This will need relaying over time.
How much do concrete pavers cost?
The price of your concrete pavers depends greatly on the colour, design and size of your pavers. While these pavers are known as the cheapest options, they can quickly become pricey when customised. A basic concrete paving job will likely cost you around $45 per square metre.
For more advice on the perfect type of pavers for your home, get in touch with your local supplier.
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