Pros and Cons of Interlock Paver Driveways, Pathways, and Patios

The number one benefit of interlock as a driveway, entryway, patio, or walkway is its’ design aesthetic. It highlights your home and sets a stylish tone, so you’ll love your outdoor spaces even more. On top of all its design potential, let’s look at the many benefits of interlocking concrete pavers.

Benefits of interlocking concrete pavers:

1) Interlocking pavers significantly reduce the concern of overheating in our cities.

Large surface areas of asphalt and concrete contribute to city hot zones, sometimes called urban heat islands.

If you prefer to impact the environment positively, the interlocking stone is less extreme than other surfacing options. Light-coloured options go a long way to reducing the heat of your home’s exterior.

2) Interlocking paving stones remain fresher-looking than asphalt or concrete longer.

If one gets damaged (although they are highly durable) or stained, it is easy to replace any number of bricks or pavers. 

With their beds prepared to the same standards as poured concrete, pavers last as long as (some say longer than) a poured concrete surface and withstand similarly heavy loads. Driveway pavers are typically 3” thick (or more), and walkway pavers are  2.5” thick.

Over time, concrete may develop cracks due to the freeze and thaw effect of our southern Ontario winter weather.

3) Interlock provides excellent visual impact.

Whether you want a traditional or contemporary, a versatile interlock can be anything you wish for your property’s exterior.

Concrete, although mostly plain looking, can provide greater appeal with colours and stamping.

The downside of interlock pavers:

1) Interlocking concrete pavers or stones cost more than pouring concrete.

Yes, pavers cost more to install than concrete or asphalt, but the extra financial investment pays off in your home’s curb appeal and eventual resale value.

2) Weeds can sometimes grow between the pavers.

The days of weeds growing between pavers are limited; polymeric sand between the gaps and laying bed, minimizes weed growth. 

3) Interlock, comprised of individual pieces, can heave or sink over time.

Maintenance is required for long-established interlock applications. Older interlocking brick, without a thickly prepared bed and with linearly patterned paver areas (as opposed to interlocking patterns), will sink with years of vehicular weight. 

The natural growth of a nearby tree’s roots simply means maintenance. This can offer a chance to change a pathway or redefine a driveway’s edge. Whether you choose concrete or another solid surface, nature has a way of reminding us of its tenacious survival skills.

Whether you choose stylish interlock or practical concrete, London Snowplow & Landscape professionally installs both. 

Call Dennis at (519) 619 0495 to set up a visit to discuss your project ideas.

London Snowplow & Landscape has provided multi-season services to London, St. Thomas, and its surrounding areas since 2016. Read more about our services in our blog post, Two Questions You Should Ask a Lawn Maintenance Contractor.

Categorised in: Interlocking Stone pavers

This post was written by Jade Brown