A concrete paver patio is easy to install and can really make a difference to the look and ambience of your backyard.
Just imagine a place to sit under the shade of trees or in the warmth of the sun.
Patios are a great place to relax and be surrounded by nature even if you are in an urban area.
A paver patio can fit into the smallest of backyards, just use your imagination.
It can be big enough for a couple of chairs or large enough to entertain guests.
It all depends on your needs.
So before you head out the door to the local home and garden centre decide why you want this patio and what you are going to use it for.
If large gatherings are your thing, make sure it's large enough so that your guests don't feel left out on the grass! Here are a few pointers to keep in mind when you are considering building a backyard patio with pavers.
Location, location, location!! This is important when deciding where to put your backyard patio getaway.
Take note of where the sun is in your yard and at what time of day.
Decide on when you will be using it the most and locate it accordingly.
You don't want to be baking in the sun if you'd rather be cooling off in the breeze! Precast concrete pavers will dull over time.
The wear and tear of the weather and general use will wear off the surface finish.
This will not be obvious initially as it is very gradual but after five years the difference in colour from the original paver can be significant.
Natural stones such as flagstone, clay brick, or slate retain their colour well.
In spite of this, precast pavers are still the best choice for the do-it-yourselfer.
Interlocking pavers are very simple to install, it's just like putting together a jigsaw puzzle only they are all uniform so you won't have to search for the missing pieces! A huge benefit is that if you are planning a square or rectangular patio, you may not even have to cut them.
Repairing an interlocking paver patio is also quite easy.
If a paver gets cracked or stained you simply pull it up and replace it.
Now if its years later, the colour fade may come into play.
It's a good idea to keep a stock of extra pavers outside somewhere so that they fade and are ready for future repairs.
Concrete interlocking paver patios can easily be installed in a day.
You may need to have a few hands on deck though.
It can be done alone, but it is much faster and less frustrating with a second or third set of hands.
With lots of help it may only take a few hours to transform the look and feel of your backyard!