Cobblestone Pavers: Applications, Benefits, and Maintenance

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Cobblestones give an authentic "Old World" look to any property. The use of cobblestones as paving material for roads and lanes was common in Europe and early America, and their historical charm makes them a desirable paving option for residential and landscaping use. Cobblestones were originally collected from riverbeds, in which their rounded shapes were created by the movement of water, wearing the stones smooth over time. Today, cobblestone pavers are produced from quarried stone and rounded mechanically into regular and irregular shapes and sizes. One of their unique benefits is that they can prevent erosion by allowing drainage while still providing a durable surface that withstands heavy use.

Applications

Cobblestones are used in both commercial and residential projects, although they are perhaps most prized in residential and landscaping design. They are suitable for driveways, pathways, patios, and garden environments. Cobblestone pavers' historical, aesthetic appeal adds charm to any property. Often set in sand, these pavers flex with the earth and are a good choice where erosion is anticipated because they maintain the integrity of grounds that may be prone to slight shifting. Examples of this include hillside pathways and banked retaining walls.

Benefits

Cobblestone pavers are universally cited for their Old World charm. Now available in so many shapes and sizes, they are also popular for the endless variety of designs that can be created as they are laid. Durable and long-lasting, cobblestone pavers rarely need replacing, but when they do, they can be replaced where needed without requiring extensive work; simply remove the cobblestone pavers that need replacing, and install new ones. Because cobblestone pavers are often laid in sand bedding, it's easier to remove and replace these pavers than many other types.

Maintenance

Surfaces covered with cobblestone pavers are very low maintenance. Occasionally, new sand may be needed to secure the pavers in position. The sand can be applied to the overall surface, watered, and allowed to settle. After the settling process, excess sand can be swept away. After many seasons in wet weather, the cobblestones may become coated with moss and slippery when wet. In this case, they can be pressure-hosed after applying a biodegradable detergent to remove the slippery coating.

With today's commercial production of cobblestones, the shapes, colors, and sizes of these pavers offer enormous flexibility in design. Cobblestone pavers can be used to make architectural statements of quality and add unique charm to a property, enhancing value and individuality. Contact a certified paving stone contractor to make your vision a reality.

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