When it comes to designing an outdoor space that stands the test of time, brick pavers are a top choice for both style and durability. But with so many options out there, knowing how to choose brick pavers can be challenging. Whether you’re planning a patio, driveway, or backyard fire pit area, this guide will help you choose the pavers that match your home’s personality, support your lifestyle, and stand up to Michigan’s climate.
1. Start With Function First
Not all pavers are made for all jobs. A paver that works beautifully for a pool deck may not be durable enough for your driveway. Think about the space’s purpose:
- Driveways: Choose pavers engineered for heavy load-bearing like Thornbury™, Artline™ or Treo™ Smooth. These options offer strength without sacrificing modern aesthetics.
- Patios and Walkways: Go for design flexibility with styles like Beacon Hill™ Flagstone or Umbriano®. These are ideal for foot traffic and give you more room to play with color and texture.
- Pool Areas: Consider lighter-toned pavers that stay cool underfoot and offer non-slip surfaces, like Avante Ashlar™ or Coral Stone™.
Knowing how the space will be used is your foundation (literally and figuratively).
2. Match (or Compliment) Your Home’s Style
Look at the architectural tone of your house. Is it classic? Modern? Craftsman? Colonial? Try to echo that in your choice of paver pattern and shape.
- For traditional homes, tumbled and textured styles like Brussels Block® add that timeless, weathered look.
- For modern builds, sleek and linear pavers like Artline™ or Linea™ bring clean lines and understated elegance.
- For transitional or farmhouse styles, Beacon Hill™ Smooth, bridges rustic and refined beautifully.
You don’t have to match materials exactly, but you want the pavers to feel like they belong in the story your home is already telling.
3. Choose a Color That Works with the Landscape
Color might be the most emotional (and personal) part of the decision. Here’s how to approach it with confidence:
- Blend, don’t fight: Look at your siding, roofing, trim, and even nature around your home. Choose a paver color that harmonizes rather than competes.
- Cool tones like grays and charcoals work well with contemporary or coastal homes.
- Warm tones like browns, tans, and rustic reds pair nicely with traditional or wooded environments.
- Don’t forget about multi-color blends (like “Sierra” or “Bavarian” blends) that offer depth and variation for a more organic look.
If you’re unsure, request samples and view them in different light throughout the day.
4. Play with Texture and Finish
Texture not only affects how the surface looks, but how it feels underfoot and even how it handles weather:
- Flagstone and tumbled textures like Beacon Hill Flagstone give a natural, relaxed feel and hide dirt or salt stains well.
- Smooth finishes like Umbriano® are elegant but may show more wear over time. Great for modern aesthetics and easy to clean.
- Brushed or matte finishes offer grip and style, especially for Michigan’s variable seasons.
Think about barefoot comfort, snow shoveling, and slip resistance.
5. Consider Patterns and Layouts
Patterns can add movement and sophistication or ground your design with symmetry and simplicity.
- Herringbone and running bond are classic, especially for driveways and paths.
- Random and multi-size layouts look great for patios or larger spaces, adding visual interest and flow.
- Borders and inlays allow for contrast and definition. Use a darker or lighter paver to frame or highlight a section.
A well-thought-out pattern can elevate a simple paver choice into something custom and memorable.
6. Ask About Sealing, Maintenance & Longevity
Paver products are known for their durability and color retention, but not every paver has the same maintenance needs. Ask your contractor:
- Will this paver require sealing?
- How will it handle Michigan winters, salt, and snow melt?
- What’s the warranty on the specific line?
Some finishes like EnduraColor™ and EasyClean™ provide extra protection and are worth the investment if you want lower maintenance over time.
Whether you’re dreaming of a backyard retreat, an elegant front walkway, or a driveway that stands out, we’ll help you choose the right color, texture, and pattern to match your home and lifestyle. Schedule a free estimate today and let’s start planning your dream hardscape.