Concrete Pavers Guide

If you want to add natural beauty and durability to your home in patios, walkways, driveways, pool decks, and other installations, flagstone is the way to go. It will provide you with years of pleasure, and there are plenty of design options – shapes, sizes, and colors – to satisfy even the most demanding creativity.

The main disadvantage for those looking to buy flagstone is getting it for a cheap price. Flagstone pavers can be very expensive to purchase, depending on a number of factors, including geography, rarity of the stone, brand, and the type of stone and color you want. However, there are a few ways to get cheap flagstone, as long as you know where to look. However, there are ways to lower the price that you have to pay for flagstone and flagstone pavers. Here are some tips:

Ten Tips to Buy Flagstone and Save Money

(1) First, decide on your budget. Some flagstone will cost more than others simply due to the type of stone it is, so you need to know the ballpark that you’ll pay to help eliminate expensive options off the bat.

(2) Next, you need to know where to buy flagstone normally. You can get this stone, either in raw or pavers form, from mason supply yards, home improvement stores, and directly from the quarries themselves. Each option will offer different types of flagstone for sale as well as different prices.

(3) The first option, mason supply yards, will often have a decent variety of stone for sale at a variety of prices. Most contractors will work through these yards to obtain your stone, so if they are doing the buying, they will probably get it here. It may be intimidating to buy flagstone from the sources, however, so many people go for other options. However, if you know how to find a deal, you could find used or scrap flagstone available for a cheap price, as long as you are willing to ask.

(4) The next try is home improvement stores. These will usually have very limited quantities of flagstone available, certainly not enough for any large job, and the variety will also be very low. If you only need flagstone for small projects, this may be the way to go.

(5) The best way to buy flagstone is directly from quarries and companies that sell it. This will offer you the most price options as well as the largest variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. You can often customize the size of the stone or pavers to your liking, making this the option of choice if you need to customize your project at all. You will often get good prices here, since you are buying directly from the manufacturer, but you can also expect to pay decently high prices as well for this material.

(6) What other ways are there to buy flagstone for cheap? One way is to look online at sites like Craigslist where people are giving away material. Some sell it for a small price, while others ask that you come and remove it yourself; you can then have the stone for free. This can be a good deal if the stone is in good condition, but always be careful when buying products used, especially building materials. There is usually a reason that someone’s giving away expensive material like this, so always check it out in person before committing to taking it.

(7) Keep an eye out for other deals – contact a mason supply yard, contractor, or other flagstone manufacturer for constant updates about excess flagstone or other deals.

(8) If you are having multiple projects paved with the material in your yard, consider doing all the projects at once. Buying bulk flagstone will maximize the savings you get, as the transportation and quarrying costs will all be rolled into the one project.

(9) In addition, if friends of yours are also considering to have an installation of flagstone put in, consider buying the material together to enjoy bulk rates.

(10) Finally, consider ways to salvage the material from other yards. You might have some lying around yourself, or friends or family might have stone that they no longer have a use for. Recovering and recycling this stone could save you hundreds of even thousands of dollars.

Tags: buy, costs, flagstone for sale, how-to, saving money, where to buy flagstone

One of the more interesting sizes of paving stone are 24 x 24 concrete pavers. They are related, in some way, to concrete paving slabs and paving flags, in that they are larger than typical 6″ x 9″ concrete pavers but still ‘modular’ when compared to poured concrete. Their relatively large size allows for different ideas and designs than the standard 6 x 9″ paver. Here are some general ideas for how to use 24×24 concrete pavers. Hopefully they will be useful to you, either for application to your project or as a spur for your own creativity. (There are other articles in this site that may give you further ideas for particular projects such as outdoor patio ideas and garden paving ideas.)

The Uses of 24 x 24 Pavers

• Note that 24 x 24″ pavers are only usable for certain applications. They are not usable wherever vehicular traffic may be present, as they are big enough that they could break or crack with that amount of weight. They are also probably not suitable for small installations and walkways, as the area of these projects would be too small for the paving flags to be installed comfortably. If the walkway is thick and straight, however, these kinds of stone may be useful. Overall, patios and pool decks are two great uses for this kind of slab – pretty much anywhere you have a lot of square footage to cover and don’t need to worry about the stresses of vehicles.
• These paving stones also can be used as stepping stones for a garden or walkway.

24 x 24 Paver Patterns

• There are many interesting ways to lay these 24×24 paving stones in paver patterns. One standard type is the stacked bond. This is simply laying the pavers like they were a chessboard or checkers board.
• Another kind is the running bond. This is alternating the pavers so that the edges of the pavers don’t line up. Instead, the edges of a row of stones are placed halfway in between the side of the upper and lower rows in a staggered format.
• One other kind is the diamond. This is essentially the stacked bond at a 45 degree angle to the borders of the installation. Running the pavers in this direction will draw the eye to the project, so only do this if you want to showcase your patio or pool deck and not have it blend in. It will also make the area look smaller – while this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it’s something you should know.
• You can also mix different sizes of pavers, including 24×24, 6×6, and 6×9, among others, to form irregular patterns. Consider adding regular pavers as a border for a 24×24 project as well.

Installation

• Though they work well with square shaped installations, these pavers can be cut in order to make curves. Read more about cutting concrete pavers here for more information on how to do this.
• Laying these paving stones is both easier and harder. It is easier in that you don’t have to put down as many brick, but it is harder in that the brick you do have to handle are heavier and more cumbersome to deal with.
• How much base you should install depends on what you’re using them for, the look you want, and how well you want them to hold up, as well as the climate around your area. Most of the time, however, you’d be best served to do the job the right way by using at least 4″ of recycled concrete or gravel as a base.

Costs and Other 24×24 Paver Facts

• Note that the other aspects of pavers apply here as well – you can get these brick in a variety of colors and styles according to your needs. Note, however, that generally the different colors and styles that are available will be much less than what is available for standard paving stone options, so plan accordingly.
• In terms of 24 x 24 concrete pavers prices, you will probably pay anywhere from $1 to $4 per square foot, depending on the brand and type. If you want to upgrade the appearance of the project, you can also get this size material in brick and natural stone varieties, though you will have to pay more. More information on pavers cost can be found here.
• It is also possible for you to make your own 24×24 brick as long as you make the right mold or forms. This process has been detailed on other parts of this website – see these articles:

http://www.concretepaversguide.com/concrete-paver-molds-buy-make-and-use.html

http://www.concretepaversguide.com/how-to-make-and-use-concrete-paver-forms.html

http://www.concretepaversguide.com/concrete-block-molds-what-you-need-to-know.html

http://www.concretepaversguide.com/ten-tips-for-finding-concrete-molds-for-sale.html

 

 

Tags: 24 x 24 concrete pavers, 24x24 concrete pavers, concrete pavers, design, other materials, paver patterns

If you are looking for a very strong material for your next hardscape project – driveway, walkway, patio, and the like – look no further than granite pavers. If you create your project out of this material, you can expect it to outlast you, your children, your grandchildren…frankly, the material is pretty much indestructible. Suitable for any use – for both structures and for decorations – granite goes with nearly any decor, home style, and theme.

Granite is a type of natural stone paver that is quarried in nature. It is made up of three components: mica, feldspar and quartz. This material is actually magma, or lava, that has cooled and hardened. Obviously, since it is a natural stone with durable properties, it will resist all weathering and abuse that it can be subjected to. Think about it – do you often see mountains and other stone structures eroding away in your lifetime?

Indeed, granite has been in use for millenia by many peoples for the buildings, monuments, and other structures they’ve built. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, for instance, were well-known granite users. If you see an old or antique monument or statue, it’s very likely that granite was involved somewhere in its construction.

Types of Granite

Generally speaking there are five types of granite pavers you can purchase. Polished is the standard kind – it gives off a smooth and almost glassy look. The next is honed – this is less shiny and more ‘colorful,’ in that it brings out the natural qualities of the material. Diamond 8 and Diamond 10 change the quality of stone’s external appearance in terms of color and texture. The final type, thermal or honed, creates a rough finish on the granite, making it perfect for applications where people will be walking.

Uses for Granite Pavers

Granite pavers can be used for nearly anything inside and outside the home. From walkways and driveways to patios and pool decks, granite pavers can do anything due to their strength and beauty. Granite can also be used for statues, decorations, and indoor applications. Since these paving stones are not slippery when wet, they make a great pool deck or patio.

Designing with Granite

You can lay these brick in many different patterns, just like you can with concrete and brick pavers. Sample types include herringbone, running bond, and basketweave, all at different angles and with different borders. In addition, irregular patterns are also possible, along with other patterns dependent on the shapes of the stones. For instance, most homeowners use square or rectangular pavers, but other shapes, like octagons, can give other potential paving stone patterns. If you get special kits, you can also create fans and circles.

Benefits of Granite Pavers

As with other stone materials, granite is incredibly hard and tough. Thus, it will not be easily scratched, chipped, or damaged, even by the roughest conditions and abuse. Even if the paver are somehow damaged, you can easily remove and replace them as long as you haven’t used mortar to install them. In addition, the amazing polish given to the granite will also last a long time regardless of the surrounding conditions. Granite is also very prized after for its looks – in fact, you’ll pay more money for granite that looks the nicest since these types are rare. Given the stone’s amazing pedigree, you can be sure that adding granite to your home will add an old-world, ancient, and refined look to your hardscape and landscape.

Granite Pavers Colors

Granite pavers come in a variety of colors, everything from white through black granite. Some colors are rarer than others, and are thus used for statues, decorations, and monuments, and thus may be more expensive than the more common materials. Many of these granite pavers are also given a nice polish that will last for many years, keeping the colors vibrant and deep.

Installation

Installation of granite pavers proceeds just like the installation of other paving stones. A sub-base is laid and compacted, followed by a sand layer, and then by the pavers. Joint material, like sand, is then spread between the joints, edges are placed around the project, and the entire surface is compacted. More details can be found on other parts of this site.

Granite Maintenance

Due to its strength and durability, you won’t have to do much maintenance to keep it looking great. You might consider sealing your granite installation, mostly to protect it against stains and to keep the colors vivid and ‘new’ for a longer period of time, but this is certainly not required if you have neither the time nor money.

Granite Pavers Price

The cost of granite pavers will be quite high – in fact, this is perhaps the most expensive material you can work with, not counting the high installation costs due to their heaviness and bulkiness. Expect to pay anywhere in the range of $10 to $60 per square foot for full installation. The type and cost of the pavers you obtain will depend on the suppliers in your area and what they have available for you, as well as the color and grade of granite you want. New stone is quarried all the time so new colors and new types of granite are constantly appearing, making it difficult to give blanket prices you might expect to pay. Note, of course, that since you’ll never have to install a new driveway, patio, etc. again, you’ll be saving money over the lifetime of the installation. Thus, this savings will reduce the total cost of the project when you consider how often you’d have to replace or repair concrete, asphalt, and other materials. You can also save money by getting recycled granite pavers if they are available in your area.

Tags: granite pavers, granite pavers price, other materials

If you want to install a new patio in your backyard, you have a number of options for the material you can use and the design you create. One of the more popular patio types is the concrete patio. There are many different shapes, sizes, and designs for a concrete patio. You can even choose different colors for the concrete by adding certain coloring to the concrete before you pour it. The ultimate design for your concrete you select will depend on the concrete patio molds or forms you use to create the project. There are many different kinds of molds and forms you can use. This article will briefly discuss the most basic ones.

Paver Molds and Forms for Patios

First, you can use a mold to create pavers. These pavers are brick made from concrete that can be arranged in a pattern. No cement or mortar is necessary to hold them in place – simply add sand between the joints, compact, and you’re done. You can purchase concrete patio molds for pavers online or at a hardware store, or you can make your own paver forms yourself, as is described at other parts of this site.

Molds and Forms for Concrete Slabs

The second major type is the concrete slab. These are like concrete pavers, except only thinner and with larger dimensions. These can also be made with molds that you can make or buy. Forms can be made similar to pavers molds, only larger – take four planks of wood and arrange the mold into the size slab you want. Then pour the concrete and let it cure and harden for 24-48 hours.

Concrete Patio Molds and Forms

The final kind of concrete patio molds is a large slab. This is essentially laying down the entire concrete patio in one large structure – these are not ‘laid’ like pavers and smaller slabs are. Instead, the forms are constructed on the site of the patio and filled with concrete. Creating these forms can be tricky, as you need to get the dimensions down pat. Any mistakes will compromise the looks and integrity of the final product. Forms are usually bordered with long planks of wood that serve as the boundaries of the large slab.

Making Your Own Concrete Patio Forms

1. After excavating the area to the proper depth (at least 4 inches), use stakes and string to mark out the dimensions of your patio, forms included.
2. Put in any expansion joints where they may be needed, such as near a foundation or other structure.
3. When setting up your strings, make sure to have the correct slope or grade so that water will pitch away from your house and other sensitive areas.
4. Use 2x4s as the boundaries of the forms. Cut the wood planks until they are in the proper length according to the dimensions of your plan. Nail them through the stakes to create the forms. You may want to add more stakes to provide more  of  a brace for the forms, perhaps one every 12 inches or so. Make sure the height is good – you want the forms to be one inch higher than the grass, though the actual height will depend on how high you want the final patio to be. Make sure it’s not a tripping hazard by being too high or too low!
5. Add braces and supports to the sides of the forms if you believe the concrete will put lots of pressure on them – concrete is quite strong when it is poured.
6. Your concrete patio molds and forms are done! Once the forms are all set up in the way you want – with as many slabs as you need – lay down gravel and wire mesh. Then begin your pour!

Good luck with your concrete patio mold!

Tags: concrete patio molds, molds

One material you could use to build your driveway from is cobblestone or cobblestone pavers. A cobblestone driveway is very strong, as it will even outlast concrete pavers. With this functional strength comes a certain charm due to the ‘natural’ quality of the material. Cobblestone driveways are thus a great balance between beauty and strength, form and function, and value and durability and can be used residentially or commercially.

Cobblestone can really be shorthand for many different block types and materials, like sandstone and limestone, but the most common is granite cobblestone. As such it is an incredibly hard and dense material and thus perfect for a driveway that will be driven and parked on.

The benefits of cobblestone driveways are many. First, you have many design options due to the different types of stone shapes, sizes, and colors available. Second, this material is very strong, and can handle the effects of vehicular traffic, weather, and abuse alike. Third, it requires little maintenance compared to other options, and it will drain water easily compared to solid slabs. Cobblestone resists stains as well.

Another advantage is aesthetic. Cobblestones have been used for many years and centuries to pave streets and other hardscape projects. Thus, they carry an ‘old world feel’ with them that cannot be matched by other materials. However, note that you will pay for this old world feel, as it can be difficult to obtain cobblestone pavers in quantity, much less for a cheap price.

If you don’t want to install an entire cobblestone driveway, perhaps due to the high costs involved, you could use the material as an apron and use some other material, like asphalt, for the rest of the driveway. You’ll thus combine the class of cobblestone with the easy and ubiquity of asphalt. Another use for ‘Belgian block’ (another name for cobblestone) is for driveway edging, or for any other kind of edging. Consider also the benefits of creating cobblestone walkways, patios, and garden installations and edgings.

Cobblestone Driveway Installation

Laying cobblestones is not difficult and can be accomplished by a willing and able homeowner, but many will want a contractor to do the work. Working with cobblestones is very similar to the process used to lay concrete pavers and other hardscape materials. First, the original driveway must be removed and the area excavated to a depth of 9 to 12″ or more. A good, solid base of around 9″ of aggregate, or gravel, should be filled in, minding of course the grade (slope) to allow proper water flow. This surface is then compacted. Spend a lot of time on the base – the better it is installed, the better the final product. Make it as thick as you need for the traffic you expect – thicker usually translates into strong, so you should be at least 9 to 12″, if not more. After it is complete, a layer of fine sand is used to create the bed. The cobblestone driveway pavers are then laid in the desired pattern and form – make sure the cobblestone pavers lay close to each other. When the entire surface is laid, fill in the gaps between the pavers with more sand, using a broom to sweep in the material. You will have to repeat this step over the next few days as the surface settles. This will ensure that the structure holds together well. In between each ‘set,’ wet the driveway to allow the sand to compact and bind together. You may also want to use a plate compactor to ensure that the project holds together well.

Cobblestone Driveway Cost

As with other hardscaping options, you’ll increase the value of your home when you install a new cobblestone driveway. This will somewhat offset the overall price you’ll have to pay for the project over its lifetime. However, cobblestone is still expensive for two reasons. First, cobblestone is a natural material, and natural materials usually cost more than concrete and other manufactured varieties. Second, installing these cobblestones by hand is a time-consuming process. Expect to pay around $10 to $60 or more per square foot, depending on many factors which have been detailed elsewhere on this site.

Note: if you install them yourself, you’ll save good money on the labor costs you’d have to pay if you hired someone to do the work. Shop around to find the cobblestone that meets your design and color requirements, as well as stone that will fit in your budget. There are many different types of stone that fit under the ‘cobblestone’ label, so find the one that best balances cost, looks, and function.

Tags: cobblestone driveway, cobblestone driveway cost, cobblestone driveway pavers, driveways, other materials

If you are thinking of paving your driveway or other outdoor project, you probably want to know what cheap paving options exist out there to help save you money and aggravation. While the exact prices, and what turns out to be the cheapest option, will depend on your particular circumstances (such as the area you live in, the particular project you want to work on, etc.), there are a few general cheap paving ideas that can get you started in your research.

By cheap, of course, we don’t mean or want ‘poor quality.’ What we mean is inexpensive price for something that offers good value. If we create a driveway out of poor quality materials and workmanship, we might have to replace or repair it sooner than we like, increasing the overall price we’ll have to pay over the lifetime of the driveway. Thus, go for inexpensive instead of ‘cheap’ in the sense of poor quality. With that caveat behind us, here are some cheap paving ideas that can stimulate your own ideas and thinking:

1. Perhaps the cheapest option out there is using loose stone or gravel for your driveway. This is easy to install, but it comes with heavy maintenance costs. Even if you put borders around the driveway, stone will get loose and will have to be raked and tended to often. In addition, plowing or removing snow from these driveways is near impossible without doing  harm to the driveway, so don’t get this material if you live in a snowy area. In general, stone can look good with the right driveways and homes, but many people prefer hardscape options.
2. Macadam, also known as tar and chip, is also quite cheap. It looks like a combination of asphalt and loose stones/gravel. You could also go with asphalt if you’d like, as this is quite cheap and, if installed properly, could last for awhile.
3. Concrete, of course, is a popular option. This may not be the best choice if you have a huge driveway, but for small projects it works well. Make sure that whoever installs it does whatever it takes to minimize the cracking of concrete, but realize that concrete will eventually crack. Don’t go cheap here with concrete, as you’ll regret it when it starts cracking and looking terrible after one winter.
4. Any option using bricks or pavers of any kind will be quite expensive as the pavers need to be laid by hand. Of course, if you do the work yourself instead of hiring a contractor, you’ll probably be able to install them relatively cheaply. This is especially true if you are able to obtain cheap paving stones from a variety of sources – for more information on this, see the pages on this website having to do with cheap pavers for sale.
5. Clay bricks are a particularly good material, as they will handle the rigors of expansion/contraction cycles well due to their flexibility while also imparting some strength to your project.
6. If you want to go the ‘paver’ route without using pavers, consider using bigger slabs. You can find cheap paving slabs and cheap paving flags more easily than cheap pavers, as the larger size of the material will make the price per square foot lower than pavers. This is due both to the size of the flag and the fact that fewer flags than pavers will be needed to cover a particular area.
7. Note as well that you can save money depending on the contractor that you hire for the work. If you get a cheap contractor, you’ll lower the overall price of the installation regardless of the material you use. In addition, if you install the paving yourself, you’ll save even more money, at the expense of your own time of course.
8. Keep in mind maintenance costs when thinking of your options. For instance, a material like asphalt will need to be sealed periodically, while stone or concrete will not. This can add up after awhile, so add the long-term costs to the short-term equation.
9. If you and multiple houses in your neighborhood are getting new driveways, combine your efforts to receive a lower price for everyone. For instance, if you are installing asphalt, you can often get a much better price if other houses in your neighborhood are also getting new asphalt driveways. Talk with your neighbors to see what can be arranged.
10. Permeable paving may also be a great option for you if you need something cheap, environmentally friendly, and permeable to water.

Good luck! We hope this gives you some ideas to get you started! If you have any more ideas or thoughts, leave them in the comments below.

Tags: basics, cheap paving, cheap paving ideas, cheap paving stones, design, ideas

Adding stepping stones to your yard is a great way to add the little details that will truly allow your home, landscape, and hardscape to shine. Here’s a brief round stepping stones guide that will help you make the design and purchase decisions you need.

Types of Round Stepping Stones

There are plenty of stepping stone options available for you depending on your budget, design, and tastes. First, there are many different materials of stones you can purchase. From concrete to stone and brick to rubber, each type of stone will have its advantages, textures, styles, and price, so be sure to consider all available options.

Aside from material, color is another factor to consider. The decision you make on color will depend on your home’s theme and the other projects and accessories you have around the area. In general, it’s best to pick a color that complements these objects rather than matches them. In addition, if you want the stone to blend in, pick a neutral color; if you want them to stand out, pick something vibrant and unique.

Another consideration is thickness. This is important for three reasons – first, thicker means more expensive. Second, thicker means heavier and thus more unwieldy to transport and install. Third, the thickness will matter depend on the kind of traffic you expect on the stones. If you are just walking on them, there should be no problem with any thickness, but if you expect someone to drive on them occasionally, you’ll want to get more heavy duty ones.

Uses for Round Stepping Stones

There are many different ways you can use round stepping stones around your home. First, in the front yard. One popular use is to have a stepping stone pathway from your driveway to your stoop or front door. You can also use them in your flowerbeds. For instance, some people have an electrical outlet or water spigot in a flowerbed. Having to go through dirt to get to them can be annoying, so having a stepping stone or two can increase your accessibility to these items. You can also use round stepping stones to lead from your driveway to the side of your house and to your backyard, either to a patio, walkway, or yard itself.

In the backyard, you have similar options, including walkways to and from patios, steps, and pool decks. Your use for these stones depends on what you have in your yard. For instance, if you have a hot tub or pool, you could have the stones leading to those installations from a patio or walkway – this will prevent people from getting muddy or dirty feet. If you have a garden or other landscaping project, you can use the round stepping stones to accentuate your creations or as a walkway that can lead you and visitors through your garden according to whatever path you’d like. They are also useful to help prevent people from walking on and damaging your floral and plant creations.

The potential uses for concrete round stepping stones is really only limited by your imagination, so get to thinking and creating! A professional landscaper, contractor, or designer can also help give you some ideas. You could also look at magazines and images of homes whose style you like to get additional ideas. Keep your eyes and mind open!

Making Your Own Round Stepping Stones

It is also possible for you to make your own! There are many ways to do this, of course, but the easiest way is to make a circular concrete mold of the proper thickness and fill it with concrete. Allow it to dry and cure and you’ll be ready to go! Simply add some color or aggregate to the concrete before pouring if you’d like to customize the appearance of the stones.

Installation of Stones

Installing a round stepping stone is quite easy. Usually, all you need to do is remove any grass or sod and ‘implant’ the stone into the soil or ground. Sometimes, however, you may have to excavate a bit if you are using a heavy duty, thick paver that needs to be installed tightly and firmly into a good sub base. This is not difficult, however, and can easily be done by a homeowner.

Round Stepping Stones Price

The cost of round stepping stones will depend on the type you purchase; they are usually bought in singletons, though you can sometimes get a better deal if you buy more than one. Expect to spend anywhere from $10 to $40 per stone depending on the quality and material you purchase. You can buy these stones at home improvement stores, mason supply yards, construction supply yards, landscaping and gardening supply stores, and online. You can also find them used on sites like craigslist and freecycle, often for a good deal – even free!

If you’re interested in seeing some sample stones, check out this link at Amazon. Note: this is an affiliate link. Concrete Pavers Guide earns a small commission (around 5%) if you purchase anything you buy while visiting this link. Thank you for your support!

Tags: concrete round stepping stones, other materials, round stepping stones

If you’re thinking about or have decided to build a new driveway, one of the big decisions you have to make is which driveway materials to use. Your choice will impact how much you pay, its aesthetics (how it looks), maintenance required, and how long the driveway will last until you have to replace it. Thus, there are a lot of factors to juggle. Here is a brief run down of the driveway materials you may want to consider for your next project. At the end there will also be a brief discussion of some of the other material you may have to purchase or use in order to complete your driveway.

Concrete Driveways

A standard driveway material that has stood the test of time. If installed correctly, it will last a very long time, though cracking could be an issue in certain climates. Can also be colored, stained, and stamped in order to increase the aesthetic options, as the plain grey concrete can be rather boring. This is a relatively cheap material as well, though a homeowner will usually not have the skill to pour all the concrete by him or herself.

Asphalt Driveways

This is a great material for many driveways, as it will not show stains well and it will resist cracking. This is one of the most cheap driveway materials, so pick this if looks and overall durability aren’t your main focus. Do realize that you will probably have to repair, maintain, and eventually replace this project within a relatively short period of time compared to other options, especially depending on how well the project is installed.

Concrete Pavers Driveways

The benefits and advantages of concrete pavers have been explained in many places on this site. Overall, this material is a great balance between value, price, durability, beauty, and design flexibility. If you need truly permeable material, you could go with grass pavers. These are also eco friendly driveway materials, as they allow grass to grow between the honeycomb structure while also letting water easily drain through.

Natural Stone Pavers Driveways

This is a very expensive option, but perhaps the most beautiful out of the entire list. There are many different types of stone that can be used for driveways – such as cobblestone – and they bring the beauty of the natural world to the front of your home – for a price, of course.

Brick Pavers Driveways

Related to concrete pavers, these are not as strong, but they are generally a bit cheaper. They may also require a bit more maintenance. Made out of clay.

Gravel and Stone Driveways

These driveways are cheap and last forever.  There are many different types of stones you can use, from gravel to small stones like bluestone. These stones come in many sizes and colors to fit your design and aesthetic requirements. Combined with borders for the driveway, these stones can be kept relatively well contained in most cases. They require some maintenance when the stone goes astray, however, and it may not work with certain decors. Another idea is to have a plain driveway made out of recycled concrete. This is a great idea to save you money; plus, you’ll be using recycled driveway materials, so you’ll also be doing your part for the planet. The only disadvantage here is that the final product may not look great. If you just need function, though, it may be just fine for your purposes.

Macadam/Tar and Chip Driveways

This driveway type is essentially a mix between asphalt and stone driveways, as stones are poured on top of the hot asphalt. These are alternative driveway materials, as they are not as popular as the others discussed above – there’s not much information out there about this type. However, it is a very cheap kind of material, and it enjoys some benefits over its close neighbor, asphalts.

Other Necessary Materials

When installing a new driveway, there are some other materials you may have to use to complete the project. You may need fill if you need to do heavy excavation. You will need a sub base, such as one made from recycled concrete or crushed aggregate. You may also need sand in order to lay down the material, such as for concrete pavers. You may also need topsoil to fill in your landscaping once the driveway is completed in addition to flowers, trees, plants, and other landscaping necessities.

Further Considerations

Realize that there will be many factors that will affect your final decision. Besides the obvious ones (budget, looks, taste, function), there are some more subtle ones. For example, environment – if you have a lot of water in the area, you will need a driveway that drains well. Solid surfaces, like concrete and asphalt, will not drain as well as more porous ones. Do you need to use the driveway for specific purposes, like playing basketball? Will it see heavy vehicular traffic? How much time do you have to invest in maintenance? How will the chosen material affect the property value of your home? These questions and others will be important to think about when you make your final decision.

Tags: alternative driveway materials, basics, cheap driveway materials, driveway materials, driveways, eco friendly driveway materials, other materials, projects, recycled driveway materials

Everyone knows the value of concrete pavers – it has been well discussed on numerous pages on this site, for example. However, the expense of buying these pavers may be prohibitive for some homeowners. This is especially true for those who need a small amount for a small project, not enough to buy an entire pallet and have too much to spare. Luckily, for these homeowners and contractors there is a solution: paver molds.

If you purchase or make your own concrete paver molds, you can make your own pavers at a price lower than if you bought! In addition, if you add coloring to the paving stones as you make them, you can have a variety of colors to match or rival those that you can buy commercially. Thus, you can get the benefits of pavers – strength, durability, design options, and beauty – without having to buy a huge amount and take on the expense.

Note, before we continue, that making pavers is viable for small projects only. If you are doing a large project, such as a patio, walkway, driveway, and the like, you will be better off buying the pavers, as you know you are getting quality, regularity, and volume for a good price.

Concrete Paver Molds for Sale

If you don’t want to go through the trouble of making the molds yourself, you can buy them pre-made. This is especially useful if you want funky or unique molds that would be difficult for you to make yourself. Look online for the paver molds available through both companies and individuals selling them. Sites likes craigslist and Ebay are a good start, and you can also check out dedicated paver mold sites. You can also look at home improvement stores and  masonry supply stores. The cost of these molds will depend on the material they are made from and their complexity. You should expect to spend $5 to $40 per mold, or more. If you buy multiple packs of molds so that you can mass produce your pavers, expect to pay more total, but you’ll also pay less per mold. You can also get the tools, colors, and other materials you’ll need at these sites, or you can buy them at home improvement stores or mason supply yards.

How to Make Paver Molds

No matter what you use the pavers for, the same mold will work for all. Thus, if you want to make a patio, a patio pavers mold will also make pavers suitable for driveways, walkways, pool decks, and so on. Making them is also cheap and rather easy, but you’ll have to be careful to do the job right. You’ll need to get half inch thick wood planks and 1 and 1/4 inch screws to assemble the molds. The length of the wood strips will depend on the dimensions of the pavers you want in length, width, and thickness. Calibrate your molds based on the specifications of the pavers. Its best to match the specs of pavers from manufacturers, just to be sure of their strength and durability, so get your hands on a sample to match.

Let’s say your brick will be 6″ by 6″ and 2″ high. Cut two strips of wood 6 inches long and two inches wide and two strips 7″ long and 2″ high. Then assemble the four strips into a ‘square,’ almost like a 2″ thick picture frame, with the 6″ x 6″ measured on the inside of the square. Use screws to hold the square together. Mass produce these and you’re ready to go! Use spray lacquer to make sure that the pavers will not stick to the inside of the square when they are done.

Simply lay the molds on top of  a bed of sand, fill them with concrete, and allow them to dry as explained on the instructions on the concrete. Don’t forget to add concrete to the mix before you pour the concrete if desired. When they are done, remove the mold, and then lay them as you’d like!

Don’t forget that you can experiment with different sizes once you get good at making squared cement paver molds. Note that if you have access to the material, you could try making silicon molds that will let you get many different unique shapes and styles of paver.

Using Paver Molds

Note that making tons of pavers will take a long time due to the wait time between first pouring and drying – which could be 24 to 48 hours. Thus, if you can only make 24 6″x6″ pavers at a time, this means you can only create enough material to cover 6 square feet in a 24 hour period. This is why if the project is large, you’re better off buying pavers unless you have the patience and resource to make them yourself. However, making your own pavers is viable for smaller projects that only require a few pavers, such as for garden applications.

Tags: cement paver molds, concrete paver molds, concrete paver molds for sale, DIY, molds, patio paver molds, paver molds

Concrete is a great material for both outdoor and indoor applications. It is strong, durable, and long-lasting, as well as quite cheap for most projects. Its major downfall is its looks – concrete is simply boring to look at and doesn’t match with many home themes and indoor decors. Luckily, it is possible to change the outward appearance of the concrete through concrete staining. Concrete staining do it yourself is very doable for many homeowners, though there are things to keep in mind to do it economically, safely, and effectively.

Benefits of Staining Concrete

As already explained, staining concrete will add a nice color to your floor, patio, walkway, etc., one that you can match to the other features of your home to have a more integrated design. Another benefit of the stain is its sealing properties, as it will help protect the concrete from unwanted stains, dirt, and damage. Note, however, that you may want to lay down a layer of sealer before you stain the concrete to further protect the surface.

A further benefit has to do with the texture of the concrete. Over time, even the hardest concrete will show signs of wear and tear, including cracks and blemishes and rough textures. Concrete stain will help smooth and even out the surface. This is an advantage over painting, patching, and polishing, as these will have to be redone every once in a while.

There are two main types of stain. The first only lays a thin layer on the top of the concrete. It worms its ways into the pores and imperfections of the surface. This is the acrylic stain; it works best with old concrete, though it can also work with new as well. It is good for hiding these imperfections. While this is less serious and cheaper, it will not last as long to weather, traffic, and abuse. The other kind reacts with the surface of the concrete to provide a deeper, and thus more hardy and long lasting, stain. This is the acid stain – it reacts with the calcium carbonate and lime of the concrete. The acid concrete stain will actually accentuate any imperfections on the concrete and works better with new concrete. The stains you use will depend on the properties of your concrete and the effect you’re going for, as well as the traffic and weathering that you expect the stain to experience. A harder concrete surface will require deeper penetration of the stain, while a rougher and/or more porous concrete surface will require stain that will ooze into the holes best.

Concrete Stain Do It Yourself Tips

In general, if you have the skills and are open to staining concrete, do it yourself. You’ll save money and do the job the way you want it to be done. Of course, if you don’t have the skills or the confidence, you can always hire a contractor. Note, however, that a improperly applied stain will look terrible, so make sure you do your research and potentially practice on a less visible area before attempting this. Note that the stain is permanent, so be careful with your design and installation decisions!

Before applying stain, make sure to have safety equipment in place, as this material can be very harmful to your skin and lungs. Whenever engaging in acid stain concrete do it yourself activities, wear goggles, thick clothing, and a mask. Make sure you have plenty of ventilation so that fumes don’t build up.

Next, clean the surface of the concrete as best you can to remove all blemishes and debris that is removable. Get concrete cleaner or use a sandblaster for this step. At this point, you may apply one layer of sealant with a paint brush and paint roller. Allow the sealer to dry before continuing with the next steps.

Follow the instructions on the staining package to determine how to prepare the stain. You may have to experiment here to find the texture, color, and other features of the stain that you want for your concrete. You can do this by finding other concrete, either blocks, old patches in your yard, or concrete slabs you create just for testing. The more you dilute the stain, the different the color will appear; you can also experiment with different ways to create designs and patterns on your concrete, if desired.

How you apply the stain will depend on the effect you’re looking for. If you just want an even coat, apply it with paint brushes and rollers. However, if you want special patterns, you’ll have to be more creative. Consider covering certain objects with the acid stain and then laying them on the concrete to create the patterns you like. Allow the stain to dry, and add a second layer if you want.

Never rush when applying your stain. Properly applied, concrete acid stain can look great. However, if you rush it, it will end up looking terrible, perhaps worse than it did before, and you’ll regret your efforts. Take your time, put in the effort, use your creativity, and it will turn out great.

Tags: DIY, maintenance