Concrete Pavers Guide

If you want to create a backyard patio, you don’t have to settle with the ‘slab’ options, like concrete, that must be poured into one large structure. Instead, you can go with concrete patio blocks as one option. These block are separate and are layed on an aggregate sub-base and either a sand bed or in mortar; this depends on the size of the material, the patio, and the traffic it expects.

Benefits of a Patio Made From Block – And Some Cons Too

The first major benefit is strength. These block will stand up to nasty weather, foot traffic, and other kinds of abuse. This is especially true if you use any of the interlocking varieties, as these pavers will form strong bonds with each other that will nonetheless remain flexible to resist cracking.

With all the types of block available, you’ll be sure to find a material that fits your needs, both in design and in value. For instance, you can find pavers, blocks, flags, and slabs in a large variety of colors, sizes, and shapes. This ensures that you’ll be able to create the patio from your dreams, as long as you put in the time and effort to create or imagine a good design.

Since you don’t have to deal with wet cement or concrete (unless you have to use mortar), these brick can often be installed by homeowners, as long as they have the experience and skills necessary to do the job right. As with any hardscape installation, the most important part of the project is the base – the most time and effort should be spent here to ensure that the project turns out solidly built.

Note, however, that these block can be expensive to install. The larger varieties may also be difficult to handle since they will be heavy and cumbersome. You can try to find more lightweight block, but by doing so you’ll sacrifice some strength and durability. In addition, if you want to know how to lay patio blocks, the procedure will depend on the type of block you’re using, the patio you’re building, and the features of your particular environment – there is no one size fits all formula here.

The Sizes and Types of Concrete Patio Block

Note that these block differ from cinder blocks and other materials used for walls in that they are not hollow. Cement blocks for patios are flatter than these kind of block which allows them to cover more square footage for a project. Hollow block should really only be used for vertical projects like walls and steps.

There are many different sizes of this material you can buy. Each will have its advantages and disadvantages, as well as the design ideas and possibilities that will come with using the material. On one end are the blocks that are much like concrete pavers – they come in 6×9″ and 6×6″ varieties. Others are larger, and are more like ‘flags’ or ‘slabs’ than pavers. These include the square shaped blocks – 12″ x 12″, 16″ x 16″, 18″ x 18″, and 24″ x 24″. Other rectangular shapes are also possible, such as 8″ x 16″. You may also be able to get ’round’ concrete block that are actually more like round stepping stones than anything else.

You can also get these blocks with different finishes, textures, and veneers. For instance, you can get smooth, textured (the aggregate shows through the surface), brickface, decorative, and others. For instance, you can get block that looks like another material – such as bricks, cobblestone, and even slate. The exact types will depend on what material is available in your local area, which can be found out by contacting your local mason supply yard.

Costs and Prices

Concrete block prices will depend on a lot of factors. One, of course, is the size of the block. Another factor is the texture – if you get plain concrete, you’ll pay less than if you get a fancy texture or decorative surface like brickface or cobblestone. Other factors that will affect the cost include your location, if you install them yourself, if you get any deals or blocks for sale, and the complexity of the job. You can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $30 a square foot or more, all depending on these various factors. Ask a contractor or mason for an estimate to be more precise.

Note, of course, that you could also try to make your own concrete patio blocks with molds you either buy or make yourself. You’ll have to pour your own concrete, and it may take awhile to create all those block, but it might be worth it in the end considering each block will be much cheaper than if you went out and bought them. However, note that your design options – color and texture – may be limited with this method.