How to Choose the Right Paver for Your Project

Pavers are one of the most versatile and durable hardscape materials available — but with so many styles, materials, and price points on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. Whether you're building a driveway, patio, pool deck, or walkway in Western NC, this guide will help you make a confident choice.

Step 1: Understand the Main Paver Types

There are two broad categories of pavers: concrete pavers and natural stone pavers.

• Concrete pavers are manufactured to precise dimensions, come in a wide range of colors and textures, and are generally more affordable. Brands like Techo-Bloc and Unilock offer concrete pavers engineered for long-term performance and aesthetic variety.
• Natural stone pavers — such as bluestone, granite, or locally quarried NC stone — offer a timeless look and unique character. Browse our Natural Stone and NC Stone collections for locally available options.

Step 2: Match the Paver to the Application

The right paver depends heavily on where and how it will be used:

• Driveways: Choose thicker pavers (2 3/8" or 3 1/8") rated for vehicular load. Concrete pavers from Techo-Bloc or Unilock are excellent here. Avoid thin natural stone unless it's properly reinforced.
• Patios: Almost any paver works for pedestrian-only areas. Focus on aesthetics — texture, color, and pattern — to complement your home and landscape.
• Pool decks: Look for textured or tumbled finishes that resist slip when wet. Light-colored options reflect heat for barefoot comfort.
• Walkways: Thinner pavers (1 3/8" to 2 3/8") are fine for foot traffic. Natural flagstone or tumbled concrete pavers create a classic look.

Step 3: Estimate Cost Per Square Foot

Paver costs vary widely depending on material, brand, and finish. As a general guide for Western NC:

• Standard concrete pavers: $3–$7/sq ft (material only)
• Premium concrete pavers (Techo-Bloc, Unilock): $6–$14/sq ft
• Natural stone (flagstone, bluestone): $8–$20+/sq ft depending on thickness and source
• NC-quarried stone: Often more competitive when sourced locally — check our NC Stone collection for current availability.

Don't forget to budget for base materials (gravel, bedding sand) and joint sand — typically adding $1.50–$3/sq ft to your total installed cost. See our Gravel, Sand & Soil and Paver Tools & Supplies collections for everything you need.

Step 4: Choose a Pattern and Color

Pattern affects both aesthetics and structural performance. Common patterns include:

• Running bond – clean and modern, great for driveways
• Herringbone (45° or 90°) – interlock pattern with excellent structural strength; ideal for driveways
• Basketweave – traditional look, best for patios and low-traffic areas
• Random/ashlar – natural feel, common with flagstone or tumbled pavers

Most paver manufacturers offer color visualizer tools on their websites. You can also bring samples to your job site to test how colors look in your specific light conditions.

Step 5: Don't Overlook Edging

A paver installation without proper edge restraint will shift and spread over time. Be sure to include plastic or metal edge restraint around the perimeter of your project. Find edging and installation accessories in our Paver Tools & Supplies collection.

Ready to Shop?

Browse our full Pavers collection to see what's in stock at Clark & Co. Hardscape Supply. Our team is happy to help you calculate quantities, compare options, and get your order together — stop by or reach out anytime.

Serving contractors and homeowners across Western NC, including Franklin, Sylva, Bryson City, Murphy, and the surrounding region.