How to Choose the Right Pavers for Your Outdoor Patio Installation

andreyevalex
Jul 1
2 min read

Installing a patio is one of the best ways to create a functional, beautiful outdoor space — especially in a dense urban environment like NYC. But choosing the right pavers is key to ensuring durability, drainage, and long-term appeal.

Whether you’re upgrading a backyard, a brownstone garden, or a rooftop terrace, here’s what you need to know when selecting the best paver materials for your project.

🧱 1. Understand the Main Types of Pavers

Each material comes with its own pros, cons, and price point. The most common patio paver types include:

🔹 Concrete Pavers

Affordable and widely available
Come in many shapes, colors, and textures
Easy to install and replace
Can mimic the look of stone or brick

Best for: Budget-conscious projects, modern designs, or large areas

🔹 Natural Stone (Bluestone, Travertine, Granite)

High-end, luxurious appearance
Extremely durable and weather-resistant
Each piece is unique in color and texture
Requires professional installation due to irregularity

Best for: Elegant, timeless patios or rooftop terraces with style

🔹 Brick Pavers

Classic look, especially for older or historic homes
Long-lasting and low-maintenance
Slip-resistant surface
Limited color options compared to concrete

Best for: Brownstones, traditional homes, garden paths

🔹 Porcelain Pavers

Ultra-smooth, modern look
Very dense and resistant to stains or fading
Low water absorption = ideal for rooftops
Often more expensive

Best for: Rooftop terraces, luxury patios, contemporary builds

🌧️ 2. Think About Drainage & Climate

NYC weather brings heat, rain, snow, and freeze–thaw cycles. Choose pavers that:

Are non-slip, even when wet
Handle temperature fluctuations without cracking
Can be installed with proper sloping and drainage systems

At Elevate, we always assess the site’s slope and recommend base layers that promote drainage and structural stability — especially for rooftops.

🎨 3. Match the Look to Your Home or Business

Your pavers should enhance — not clash with — your exterior. For example:

Modern homes = smooth concrete or porcelain
Historic homes = brick or bluestone
Rooftop patios = lightweight, clean-line options
Commercial patios = durable, low-maintenance materials

We can show you samples and help match materials to your style.

🔧 4. Consider Long-Term Maintenance

Some pavers require more upkeep than others:

Concrete may fade or stain over time
Stone may need sealing
Brick can shift slightly without proper edging
Porcelain is almost maintenance-free

We’ll walk you through the best options for your usage needs and budget.

🏗️ Expert Patio Installation in NYC

At Elevate Tent Design, we don’t just install patios — we help you make the right decisions from day one. With over 15 years of experience in outdoor construction, we offer: