Pavers
There are 3 main types of raw materials that are used for manufacturing regular paver products and they all can be used as patio pavers:
Concrete pavers – made from concrete - can be used as patio pavers
Brick pavers – made from clay - can be used as patio pavers
Stone pavers – made from natural stone - such as granite, sandstone, etc, can be used as patio pavers
Each of the above paver groups has a multitude of paver products that are manufactured in an endless selection of colors, shapes, patterns and sizes that would be suited for patio paving applications. Therefore, just about any type of pavers can be used for building a patio. In essence, any regular paver product can be used to make a patio.
When it comes to installing your chosen Patio Pavers, there is a variety of patterns and designs to consider. There are many different paver patterns available, all depending on the shape of the pavers and the size of the project. The number of patterns keeps increasing as new paver shapes are designed and as our creativity continues
Q: Can freeze/thaw cycles damage pavers or slabs?
Answer: No. Damage caused by freezing is virtually non-existent. Joints between concrete units (pavers, slabs, walls) allow them to move without breaking or cracking. The quality of the concrete used also allows each unit to withstand freezing
WHEN SHOULD I SEAL? You do not have to seal your pavers at all or you may seal them on a regular basis. The pavers must be installed for at least 60 days before having them sealed, to allow the concrete to cure. You may want to seal every 2 years or you may want to seal at longer intervals. Whenever you feel you would like a new finish on them again. Most applications last 2-4 years.
Flagstone is a flat natural irregular shaped stone .It comes in many colors and sizes. It has many applications .In our experience it has its place in a landscape and we go over this with you. Flagstone varies in size,shape,color and cost. It does not work well for patio's,driveways,sidewalks,or any place a perfectly flat user friendly surface is desired. Fire pit area's ,stepping stones,flagstone paths are all great places for its use.
Clay soils ?
Most area's of Minneapolis sit on clay {wet} soils they drain poor and virtually move up and down with our climate. Pavers make a perfect choice compared to concrete as concrete will settle ,crack, move in one piece rather than flex like pavers do. Every winter is different just pay attention to the roads you drive if they are heaved and full of pot holes . Then expect some heaving and moving on your paver patio's.walkways,driveways.This does not hurt them .You will also notice if you look close that your house settles and moves more than our patio's.We are experienced with working in clay soil .We take extra steps that we have found work best in flexible type soils.Pavers in clay soil just makes the most sense!