What are the pros and cons of building a patio with concrete pavers?
Description: Concrete pavers, or paving stones, are concrete shapes in various colors and textures that interlock to form a patterned surface. Benefits: Because these long-lasting pavers aren’t set in mortar (except around the perimeter of the patio), they can be removed and replaced if there’s a problem with a particular tile. Pavers come in an endless array of shapes, styles and finishes, and can mimic almost any kind of stone. Drawbacks: Expect weeds to grow in the joints of your pavers; a regular spray of herbicide should keep them under control. Also, the same “efflorescence” that sometimes appears on poured concrete – whitish, water-soluble salt deposits – occasionally appear when the pavers are new. To remove, scour the spots with a stiff brush. Installation: Do-it-yourselfers can tackle the installation of pavers, which are set on sand rather than bound with mortar. You can lay pavers on top of your existing patio if it’s level and in good condition, so there’s no need to break
