When you invest in a patio or walkway, the materials you choose will influence how your space looks, functions, and holds up over many seasons. At Beaver Valley Lawn Service, we help homeowners throughout Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, and Washington Counties choose pavers that fit both their property and their long-term plans.
As a second-generation, family-owned business, we understand the value of selecting materials that are practical, durable, and suited to Western Pennsylvania’s climate.
This guide breaks down what you need to consider when selecting pavers, along with insights from years of experience designing and installing outdoor hardscapes.
Before you explore colors and patterns, start with function. The way you plan to use the space will guide which pavers make the most sense.
For Patios
Patio designs often prioritize comfort and visual appeal. Homeowners typically want a surface that feels stable underfoot, resists stains, and complements the surrounding landscaping or outdoor features, such as fire pits, seating walls, or pergolas.
For Walkways
Walkways require materials that enhance traction, allow for smooth transitions between grades, and withstand frequent foot traffic. They also need to be sized correctly so the path feels natural rather than cramped.
For Driveway Extensions or Heavier Loads
If your project includes vehicle traffic—or might in the future—you’ll need thicker, interlocking pavers designed to distribute weight and prevent shifting.
Each material brings its own strengths. Your choice should strike a balance between appearance, durability, and maintenance expectations.
Concrete Pavers
Concrete pavers are one of the most versatile options and remain popular for their wide range of sizes, shapes, and finishes. Their consistent dimensions allow for clean patterns and tight joints, which help prevent weeds and shifting when installed correctly.
Concrete pavers are also easier to repair than poured concrete slabs. If a section settles or becomes damaged, an individual unit can be reset or replaced.
Brick Pavers
Brick offers a warm, timeless look and holds color well over time. It works especially well for traditional homes or properties aiming for a classic aesthetic. Brick pavers are strong and slip-resistant, though they may require occasional joint sand replenishment to maintain stability.
Natural Stone Pavers
Flagstone, sandstone, and limestone are valued for their unique texture and varied appearance. Natural stone pairs well with rustic, wooded, or historic properties found across the Greater Pittsburgh region. While stone is durable, its long-term performance depends on choosing the right type—some stones resist freeze-thaw cycles better than others.
Western Pennsylvania experiences wet winters, cycles of freezing and thawing, and hot summers—all of these impact paver performance.
Here’s what matters most:
Freeze-Thaw Resilience
Pavers should be dense enough to resist moisture penetration, which reduces the chance of cracking during winter.
Proper Base Preparation
Even the best pavers will move or heave if the base is not built correctly. Our team builds deep, compacted aggregate bases designed to handle local soil conditions and seasonal changes.
Drainage Planning
Standing water can stain surfaces, cause erosion, and shorten the lifespan of your project. Incorporating the proper slope and installing edging can help direct water away from your home and maintain a stable area.
Your patio or walkway should feel like an extension of your home—not an afterthought.
Brick homes often pair well with warm tones, while modern homes look sharp with greys, charcoals, or smooth-edged pavers.
If you have wooded surroundings, natural stone or earth-toned concrete blends well. If you prefer a clean, structured look, larger format pavers or linear patterns can add clarity and definition.
Lighter pavers show stains less but may highlight dirt or weathering. Darker pavers create contrast but can heat up in direct sunlight. Sealants can help manage both issues when applied correctly and at the proper intervals.
The pattern you choose affects both appearance and durability.
Common Layouts
The right pattern often depends on the area size, shape, and the traffic it will receive. Our installers ensure proper staggering, joint alignment, and edge restraint placement for long-lasting results.
A paver patio or walkway can be enhanced as part of a larger outdoor plan. Consider how the space fits into your yard as a whole.
Popular Add-Ons
We build many of these features in-house, allowing homeowners to create a cohesive design without hiring separate contractors.
Proper installation is just as critical as selecting the right pavers. As a local, family-run business serving the region for decades, Beaver Valley Lawn Service brings a deep understanding of soil conditions, local stone suppliers, and regional design preferences.
Our approach includes:
This process reduces settling, improves drainage, and helps your patio or walkway look its best year after year.
Choosing the right pavers doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. By focusing on durability, climate suitability, and how the materials support your overall design, you can create an outdoor space that enhances the value and function of your property.
If you’re planning a patio, walkway, or other hardscaping project in the Greater Pittsburgh area, Beaver Valley Lawn Service is here to help. Our team can guide you through material options, discuss design ideas, and create a long-lasting space that you’ll enjoy every season.
