Having a patio is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and entertain friends and family. However, if you’re considering installing a patio, you’ll want to make sure you know how thick the pavers should be. Without the right type of pavers, your patio could deteriorate long before its time. Luckily, though, there are standardized sizes for everything.
The most common paver thickness for a patio is 2.38”, which is considered to be the minimum thickness for a patio paver. However, 2.25” is the standard thickness for pavers that are made from concrete. Meanwhile, a thicker paver, at 2.5”, is recommended for patios that will get a lot of foot traffic and are located in areas where the ground may freeze.
As you can see, there are a handful of factors that can influence the exact thickness of your patio pavers. In this article, we’ll go over all the things you should consider when deciding on a paver thickness for your patio, as well as the different types of pavers available and the tools and materials you’ll need to install them.
Why Does the Thickness of the Pavers Matter?
If you’ve never laid pavers before, it would be an easy mistake to assume that any paver can work for any situation. However, the thickness of the pavers you choose can have a big impact on the lifespan of your patio.
For example, if the pavers are too thin, they won’t be able to support the weight of the furniture and people on the patio. On the other hand, if they’re too thick, they won’t be able to easily fit in the space you have available.
The thickness of your pavers also affects how well they will stand up to wear and tear. Thicker pavers are more durable and can withstand more abuse than thinner pavers. Additionally, thicker pavers have a better grip on the surface, so there’s less chance of them shifting or becoming uneven.
Finally, the thickness of the pavers also affects how easy it is to install them. Thicker pavers require more effort to install and take more time, while thinner pavers require less effort and take less time.
Ultimately, the thickness of your pavers depends on a variety of factors, including the type of soil, the weather conditions, and the amount of foot traffic your patio will receive. It’s important to take all of these into consideration when deciding the thickness of the pavers for your patio.
Read: Travertine Vs Concrete Pavers For Pool Decks
Consider the Weight of Added Furniture and Foot Traffic
When deciding on the thickness of your pavers, it’s important to consider how much weight your patio will need to support. If you plan on adding furniture, such as a table and chairs, you’ll need to make sure the pavers are thick enough to support the weight. Additionally, if your patio will receive a lot of foot traffic, you’ll want to make sure the pavers are thick enough to handle it.
In general, thicker pavers are better able to support heavier objects. However, if you’re looking for a more lightweight option, you can always opt for thinner pavers. Just make sure to take the weight of your furniture and foot traffic into consideration before making a decision.
Read: DIY Guide: How To Build A Fire Pit Patio With Pavers?
Types of Pavers
Once you’ve decided on the thickness of your pavers, it’s time to decide on the type. There are two main types of pavers:
- Concrete – Concrete pavers are the most common type of paver and come in a variety of colors and sizes. They’re also the most affordable option and are easy to install. On average, concrete pavers will cost around $1.00 per square foot, making them an easily accessible building material.
- Natural stone – Natural stone pavers, on the other hand, are made from natural stones such as slate, marble, and travertine. They’re more expensive than concrete pavers and require more effort to install, but they offer a unique look that can’t be replicated with other materials. Expect to spend anywhere from $10 to $80 per square foot, depending on the type of stone.
You may also choose to use brick pavers, which are also a cheaper option but be warned that they break easily in colder climates.
Read: How To Choose The Right Paver Material For Your Pool Deck?
What if You Want to Cover a Concrete Patio Slab?
If you already have a concrete patio slab and want to cover it with pavers, you may want to consider using a thinner paver. In this case, a 1.25” paver should be sufficient. If you do choose to use a thinner paver, make sure that the slab is completely level. If there are any bumps or dips, you should use a self-leveling compound to ensure that the pavers lay flat.
Read: How Much Does A Paver Driveway REALLY Cost?
Tools and Materials Needed for Installation
Finally, you’ll need to make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials for installation. Depending on the type of paver you choose, the tools and materials you need may vary. For concrete pavers, you’ll need a rubber mallet, a tape measure, a shovel, a level, and a trowel. For natural stone pavers, you’ll also need a wet saw, a grinder, a chisel, and a hammer.
Additionally, you’ll need sand and gravel for the base, as well as a sealant to protect the pavers and keep them looking good. If the pavers begin to fade in time, you may even need a pressure washer but these can often be rented from your local garden or hardware store.
Read: Are Pavers Cheaper Than Concrete Around A Pool?
The Bottom Line
When it comes to having a patio, the thickness of the pavers is important. Without the right thickness, your patio can suffer from wear and tear and won’t last as long. Generally, the standard thickness for patio pavers is 2.38”, but other factors, such as the weight of the furniture and foot traffic, should be taken into consideration. Additionally, the type of paver you choose can also affect the thickness. No matter what type of paver you choose, make sure you have the right tools and materials on hand to ensure a successful installation. With the right thickness and materials, your patio can last for years to come.