Designing your ideal outdoor space requires thoughtful decisions about paving materials in their cost, location, drainage and aesthetics. People often ask about the pros and cons of different materials, and we’d like to share a little bit about some of our most used pavements and surface finishes to help you in your projects. This detailed guide explores the merits of various options, taking into account size, location, and design aesthetics to help you make an informed choice for your landscaping project.
- Exposed Aggregate:
- Pros:
- Suited for both small and large areas.
- Can be formed to create interesting shapes, steps.
- Slip-resistant surface.
- Low maintenance, with little risk of ant activity and weed breakthrough.
- Contemporary look with lots of colour options.
- Less expensive than honed aggregate, can be honed at a later date if desired – though this is not generally ideal as honing can create mess/dust.
- Cons:
- Professional installation recommended.
- Initial cost higher than standard concrete.
- Ideal Use: Driveways, pool areas (we recommend honing the edges if capping a pool with aggregate, and semi honing the surrounds if possible), and expansive outdoor spaces in need of an attractive, low maintenance material.
- Price Range: $$
- Pros:
- Honed Aggregate:
- Pros:
- Ideal for small to medium-sized areas.
- Elegant appearance, suitable for pool surrounds. Can be sealed with non-slip sealer if desired.
- Available in various colors and finishes.
- Low maintenance, with little risk of ant activity and weed breakthrough.
- Cons:
- If being used to achieve a refined look, regular cleaning and sealing is recommended.
- Higher initial cost compared to standard concrete or exposed aggregate.
- Ideal Use: Patios, courtyards, and areas with a refined aesthetic, pool areas.
- Price Range: $$$
- Pros:
- Cobblestones:
- Pros:
- Perfect for creating intricate designs in small areas.
- Durable and suitable for heavy traffic, ideal for driveways.
- Allows for efficient water drainage.
- Cons:
- Labor-intensive installation.
- Occasional maintenance required for gaps between stones.
- Nightmare to walk over in high heels.
- One of the most expensive paving options per square meter due to labor intensive installation.
- Ideal Use: Pathways, driveways, and garden borders.
- Price Range: $$$$$$
- Pros:
- Travertine:
- Pros:
- Suited for both small and large areas.
- Cool to the touch and soft underfoot, perfect for pool areas.
- Organic materials elevate a space and work well with a range of styles.
- Slip-resistant and heat-resistant.
- Grouted, with little risk of ant activity and weed breakthrough.
- Cons:
- Requires sealing to prevent staining.
- Limited color options compared to some materials.
- Ideal Use: Patios, pool surrounds, and feature areas.
- Price Range: $$$$
- Pros:
- French Pattern Travertine:
- Pros:
- Best for medium to large spaces.
- Adds a touch of sophistication to poolside areas.
- Versatile pattern layout for unique designs.
- Cons:
- Higher cost due to the complexity of the pattern.
- Sealing is essential for long-term maintenance.
- Ideal Use: Courtyards, verandas, and outdoor dining areas.
- Price Range: $$$$
- Pros:
- Limestone:
- Pros:
- Suited for small to medium-sized areas.
- Cooler surface temperature, perfect for hot climates.
- Low maintenance compared to some materials.
- Cons:
- Susceptible to scratching and chipping.
- Limited color options.
- Ideal Use: Garden paths, pool coping, small to medium areas.
- Price Range: $$$$-$$$$$
- Pros:
- Bluestone:
- Pros:
- Suitable for both small and large areas.
- Rich blue-gray hues for a contemporary look.
- Durable and resistant to scratches.
- Great for steppers, available in cut units also.
- Cons:
- Requires sealing to maintain color.
- Limited availability may affect pricing.
- Ideal Use: Pathways, driveways, and outdoor entertainment areas.
- Price Range: $$$$
- Pros:
- Summerstone Fines:
- Pros:
- Budget-friendly option for large areas.
- Natural appearance with a rustic charm.
- Good drainage properties but can be installed with a hardener which limits drainage.
- Cons:
- May require periodic replenishment due to settling.
- Limited color choices, requires upkeep.
- Ideal Use: Pathways, garden beds, and casual outdoor spaces.
- Price Range: $$
- Pros:
- Crazy Paving:
- Pros:
- Ideal for small to medium-sized, informal spaces.
- Adds a unique, organic touch to designs.
- Cost-effective option for creative landscaping.
- Cons:
- Requires skilled installation for stability.
- Uneven surface may be challenging for some uses.
- Ideal Use: Informal garden paths, stepping stones, and accent areas.
- Price Range: $$$$$$
- Pros:
- Unit Pavers:
- Pros:
- Suited for both small and large areas.
- Wide variety of sizes, shapes, and colors.
- DIY-friendly installation options available.
- Cons:
- May require occasional maintenance to address shifting.
- Price can vary based on the material and design complexity.
- Ideal Use: Driveways, walkways, and patio areas.
- Price Range: $$ – $$$
- Recycled Brick:
- Pros:
- Suited for medium to large areas.
- Sustainable and environmentally friendly choice.
- Rustic charm and character.
- Cons:
- Limited color options.
- May require professional installation for stability.
- Ideal Use: Garden paths, retaining walls, and eclectic outdoor designs.
- Price Range: $$ – $$$
Conclusion: Choosing the right paving material involves considering size, location, and specific design styles. For Perth landscapes, consulting with local landscaping companies ensures your choice aligns with the unique climate and characteristics of Western Australia, transforming your outdoor space into a haven of beauty and functionality.