We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Home

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What are the Pros and Cons of Natural Stone Pavers?

By Vasanth S.
Updated: May 16, 2024
Views: 16,213
Share

Natural stone pavers have several advantages over other types of patio pavers, but they also have a few disadvantages. They are available in a variety of colors, sizes, and patterns, and in most cases, they are more natural looking than manufactured pavers. Unfortunately, most absorb moisture readily, which can lead to cracks and other problems.

There are several types of natural stone pavers to select from. Whether it is granite, limestone, or travertine, each material offers a wide selection of pavers that differs in size, color, pattern, and finish. The initial planning for a large paving job becomes easier because there is bound to be a selection that matches the design of the home.

Granite, for example, is available in flamed gray or flamed gold. It is cut into several sizes, including 8 by 8 inches (20.32 by 20.32 cm), 8 by 16 inches (20.32 by 40.64 cm), 16 by 16 inches (40.64 by 40.64 cm), 16 by 24 inches (40.64 by 60.96 cm), and 24 by 24 inches (60.96 by 60.96 cm). Most companies offer stones that are cut to size as well. Granite is available in a number of finishes including polished, honed, and sandblasted. Additionally, there are many patterns for installation, including ashlar, herringbone, and running bond.

Natural stone pavers can be set directly in soil with little preparation. They can also be set in sand on top of existing concrete. One disadvantage is that the surface of the patio may not be completely flat.

Another advantage of natural stone over concrete or brick is the overall appearance of the finished installation. It has a much more natural appearance than manufactured paving; the large number of natural options can ensure that the customer gets the desired look. Moreover, the property value of the house tends to increases dramatically with a patio that is paved with natural stones. Concrete and brick, in contrast, seldom increase the value of the home as much.

The installation time for natural stone pavers is generally less than for concrete because the stones are cut to a specific thickness and size. Installation cost therefore is generally lower. The actual cost of the natural stone is, however, typically much more expensive than concrete or brick.

A disadvantage of natural stone is that it tends to absorb moisture much more easily than concrete or brick. Moisture within the stones can freeze during the winter and cause the pavers to break. This leaves a noticeable crack on the surface of the stone, which can reduce the appeal of the overall patio appearance.

Share
HomeQuestionsAnswered is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
By lluviaporos — On Jun 22, 2013

@Mor - It depends on the kind of paving slabs you're getting though. There are a lot of natural stones that will be perfectly safe even in the ice. I'd say more than concrete even, since concrete paving stones tend to be quite slick and glossy.

But if you are worried, there are finishes that you can buy at the store which will make a slick surface safer to walk on.

By Mor — On Jun 21, 2013

I think it's very important to make sure that your natural stone tiles are not going to be too slippery. Often they have been polished to look a certain way and that doesn't take into account the fact that people need to be able to walk over them without taking a fall in all conditions.

I tend to wear flip flops a lot, which don't have much of a grip at the bottom, and I've fallen more than one on tiles that didn't have a safe surface for walking.

This is particularly true if you have children, since they will be running all over the place and will be the first ones to fall if you haven't made sure that they will be safe.

By bythewell — On Jun 21, 2013

A few cracks doesn't look that bad really, if you are really going for a natural look. You just have to make sure your paving stones are still safe to walk on and that the crack isn't so big it's going to start growing a small garden of weeds in the middle of your stone.

This is more of a problem in areas which get cold enough for the stones to freeze like that. I imagine if you're really worried about it, you could put them under a tree or something that would create a micro-climate and make them less likely to freeze.

Share
https://www.homequestionsanswered.com/what-are-the-pros-and-cons-of-natural-stone-pavers.htm
Copy this link
HomeQuestionsAnswered, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

HomeQuestionsAnswered, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.