Types of Pavers: What's the Difference and How to Choose

Pavers can completely transform an outdoor space, from garden pathways and patios to driveways and pool decks. But with so many materials, colors, and shapes, knowing which paver type will perform best for your home isn't always straightforward. Each material has unique textures, tones, and maintenance needs that influence how it looks and lasts.

Our team at Bath Landscape & Irrigation has helped Northern Colorado homeowners select and install quality pavers for over 60 years. Working in USDA Hardiness Zones 4b-6a means we understand which types of pavers withstand Colorado's freeze-thaw cycles, intense sun, and dramatic temperature swings.

Below, we'll walk through some of the most popular paver materials, including natural stone, brick, and permeable options, to help you make a confident choice for your next landscaping project.

Flagstone

Flagstone is a natural stone known for its irregular shape and earthy beauty. These flat slabs are split from sedimentary rock like sandstone or limestone, giving each piece a one-of-a-kind appearance that adds character to any outdoor space.

Flagstone's appeal lies in its versatility. It complements everything from rustic garden paths to modern outdoor living areas. Because the surface is naturally textured, it also provides excellent traction, even when wet from rain or snowmelt.

Benefits: Flagstone offers a timeless, natural look that blends beautifully with Colorado's landscape. The slip-resistant surface makes it safe for walkways and pool decks. It works particularly well in informal or organic designs where you want a softer, less structured appearance.

Disadvantages: The uneven surface can make installation more complex and time-consuming. Flagstone typically costs more than manufactured pavers due to quarrying and transportation. It requires sealing to prevent stains and erosion, especially in areas with standard freeze-thaw cycles in Northern Colorado.

For homeowners seeking a natural, handcrafted aesthetic, flagstone offers beauty and durability with minimal upkeep once properly sealed and installed by experienced professionals.

Granite

Granite pavers are prized for their strength and refined appearance. Quarried from dense igneous rock, granite stands up exceptionally well to high traffic and harsh weather, making it a favorite choice for driveways, walkways, and upscale patios.

Available in shades of gray, black, pink, or speckled finishes, granite adds a polished, sophisticated touch to any outdoor setting. The material's density makes it one of the most durable paver options.

Benefits: Granite is highly durable and long-lasting, often outliving other paver materials by decades. It resists chipping, cracking, and fading even under Colorado's intense UV exposure. The material requires low maintenance and cleans easily with water and mild soap.

Disadvantages: Granite is a premium investment because of its higher material costs compared to concrete or brick pavers. Color options are somewhat limited to the natural variations found in quarried stone. Installing the heavy material can be labor-intensive, requiring experienced crews and proper equipment.

If longevity and elegance rank as top priorities for your project, granite represents one of the most resilient paver choices available for Northern Colorado landscapes.

Travertine

Travertine, a limestone formed in mineral springs, is commonly used for patios and pool decks thanks to its naturally cool surface and subtle color variations. Its soft beige, ivory, and tan tones create a warm, welcoming feel that complements Mediterranean and modern homes.

The stone's unique cellular structure means it stays cooler underfoot than darker materials, making it comfortable for barefoot traffic during Colorado's hot summer days.

Benefits: Travertine stays noticeably cooler than granite or concrete, ideal for sunny pool decks and patios. The naturally textured surface provides slip resistance for wet areas. Its luxurious appearance with a smooth finish adds upscale appeal to residential landscapes.

Disadvantages: The porous nature of travertine requires regular sealing to prevent staining from spills or organic matter. The stone can be sensitive to acidic cleaners, which can etch the surface. Travertine is slightly softer than granite or concrete, making it more vulnerable to chipping in high-traffic areas.

Travertine's charm lies in its organic warmth and comfort, perfect for homeowners looking to blend beauty with functionality in their outdoor living spaces.

Brick

Brick pavers bring a classic, traditional appeal to patios, walkways, and garden spaces throughout Fort Collins and Northern Colorado. Made from clay and fired in a kiln, they offer uniform shapes allowing various installation patterns, from herringbone to basket weave and running bond. Brick's rich, natural red tones create a warm, inviting look that pairs beautifully with historic or cottage-style homes common in older Fort Collins neighborhoods.

Benefits: Brick delivers a classic, timeless appearance that never goes out of style. As an eco-friendly and recyclable material, it appeals to environmentally conscious homeowners. Individual bricks can be easily replaced if damaged, making repairs straightforward and cost-effective.

Disadvantages: Brick can fade or chip over time, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic or freeze-thaw exposure. The joints between bricks may require more maintenance to prevent moss or weed growth. Brick offers less color variety compared to stone pavers or manufactured concrete options.

Brick remains a popular choice for those who want an affordable, traditional material that will withstand decades of use in Colorado's demanding climate.

Permeable

Permeable pavers allow water to pass through their surface, reducing runoff and promoting natural drainage into the soil. They can be made from concrete, stone, or recycled materials. The key lies in the spacing and specialized sub-base system that filters water effectively.

These pavers work ideally for driveways, parking areas, or patios in areas prone to heavy rainfall or where local stormwater management requirements apply. Northern Colorado municipalities increasingly encourage permeable surfaces to reduce strain on drainage systems.

Benefits: Permeable pavers offer environmentally friendly and sustainable stormwater solutions. They reduce puddling, erosion, and ice formation during the winter months. Installing permeable surfaces helps meet local stormwater management requirements while potentially qualifying for rebates or incentives.

Disadvantages: Proper installation with correct base materials is essential for effective drainage performance. The joints require more maintenance to keep free of debris that can clog drainage pathways. Due to specialized installation requirements, upfront costs may be higher than traditional pavers.

If you want to combine performance with eco-conscious design, permeable pavers offer an innovative and sustainable solution that benefits your property and the broader community.

Find the Perfect Paver with Bath Landscape & Irrigation

Choosing the right paver type depends on your space, style preferences, and budget considerations. Whether you prefer flagstone's rugged beauty, travertine's cool elegance, or granite's enduring strength, each material brings unique benefits to your landscape design.

Our Bath Landscape & Irrigation team helps homeowners throughout Northern Colorado design and install custom patios, walkways, and outdoor living spaces that balance aesthetics, durability, and sustainability. As a family-owned business with over 60 years of experience in USDA Zones 4b-6a, we understand which paver materials perform best in our challenging climate.

From selecting the perfect paver material to expert installation that ensures proper drainage and longevity, we manage every aspect of your project. Our designers work closely with clients to create cohesive outdoor environments where paver selection complements your home's architecture and existing landscape features.

Ready to get started on your paver project? Call us at (970) 488-1707 or visit our paver patios and pathways page to explore options and schedule a consultation. Learn more about our complete design and installation services.