A big backyard project can easily become overwhelming, especially if you plan to use items like large concrete pavers. You have to consider not only the material but also the cost, how much time it will take to install it, and the difficulty of the installation itself. If it’s beyond your personal skillset or you simply don’t have time for a DIY, you will have to cover the labor costs of others, too.
If you are looking for help with your hardscaping project, Batchelder & Collins will work with you to get the right supplies to fit your unique vision. Large pavers are an excellent way to cover bigger areas faster while keeping costs low. Take a look at some of our favorite tips for designing your yard with large pavers.
Ideas For Your Outdoor Space
Below is a list of ideas for using large pavers that can change the appeal and aesthetic of your outdoor space.
Outdoor Patio
Since large pavers are so effective at covering large areas evenly, they are often implemented in outdoor concrete patio projects. Using large paver materials means you can cover a larger area faster, all while maintaining an even surface that is useful for furniture. In addition to basic outdoor paver patios, this strategy can be used for outdoor living spaces and pool deck patios, too. To add a bit more design and creativity to your large pavers, you may want to consider textured stones. Certain textures can boost your project’s aesthetic while still being even enough to handle furniture well.
Stepping Stones
If you are looking for a new walkway in your outdoor space, large stone pavers can serve as stylish stepping stones. They are easy to install, and given their size, you will not need as many individual pieces as you would if you opted for something smaller. Additionally, using large pavers allows for creative customization options for your stepping stones. By using different colored pavers, for example, you could create a walkway that has an interesting color pattern.
Fire Pits
For a more dramatic fire pit, large pavers are among the best options available. Using these kinds of pavers for a fire pit allows the installation to stand out more in your outdoor space, so it’s advantageous if you want your firepit to be the centerpiece of your backyard.
Outdoor Kitchen
An outdoor kitchen can add quite a bit to any outdoor space, especially if you plan on entertaining guests. With large concrete pavers, you can cover an area quickly, making it easy to lay the groundwork for an outdoor kitchen. That comes with affordability, too, given the increased efficiency. Plus, narrow spaces in an outdoor kitchen can be covered by using plank-style pavers that, when implemented correctly, can offer the illusion of depth.
Best Installation Techniques
Create a Slope
Creating a slope is essential to prevent potential moisture accumulation over time. With a slope in place, water will flow out and away from the worksite. Keep in mind that this does not have to be a steep slope at all. Generally speaking, a quarter inch per every foot of length is enough of a slope to allow for proper drainage without being apparent.
Choose the Right Base
The base for your pavers needs to be reliable, or the project can fail no matter what else you do. Simple dirt will not do the job either since it will shrink by 30% over time. Instead of dirt, we recommend a base of gravel or washed concrete sand. This will keep your pavers in place and prevent the shifting that you’d experience using dirt.
Lay a Deep Base
The size of the base should be proportional to the weight of the pavers, and large pavers can get heavy. Because of this, it is typically best to lay a deep base before installing the pavers. If you are using the pavers for a driveway that will be subject to the weight of vehicles, you will need an especially deep base to support the pavers and accompanying weight.
Compact Sand Layer
A compact sand layer can be incredibly efficient since sand’s granular nature allows it to compact itself automatically compared to the wide range of sizes found in soil and stone. Even so, it’s helpful to compact the sand yourself to ensure that as many gaps and air pockets are pushed out as possible.
Large Paver Maintenance
Clean Regularly
By cleaning your pavers regularly, you can keep them looking like new even when they’ve spent time exposed to the elements. A pressure washer is particularly effective at cleaning concrete pavers since it efficiently removes debris, dirt, and grime.
Seal Your Pavers
After the initial installation, you would significantly benefit from sealing your pavers. This will protect them from water damage. Even if your pavers aren’t set up next to a pool or hot tub, a seal will still protect it from water damage. Additionally, sealed pavers do not grow weeds in the paver joints.
Seek Advice from a Professional
Quite a few different factors can affect pavers, so it is beneficial to seek advice from a professional about your circumstances and needs. Their perspective can offer unique solutions to your individual needs regarding your pavers to keep them in good shape.
Why Our Customers Choose Batchelder & Collins
At Batchelder & Collins, we have been serving our community with high-quality hardscaping materials for more than a century. We are members of the American Institute of Architects, and we offer a broad selection of large concrete pavers, bricks, stone veneers, masonry accessories, and tools. Take a look at what some of our previous clients had to say about our products.
Testimonials
“Always good customer service. Reasonable prices and loading of purchase items is fast and easy.” — Vincent M.
“I love this place. They always have what I need and all the staff is so very helpful! Keep up the good work.” — Debra L.
Elevate Your Space with Pavers
Large concrete pavers can significantly elevate your outdoor space. Get in touch with our team at Batchelder & Collins to find all the supplies you need for your next large paver project.
