Softer Than Concrete Pavers: The Sustainable Material For Your Patio

Pre-cast concrete pavers are generally the most affordable way to create a patio or other solid surface in your yard. They are durable and available in a huge range of colors and styles. Unfortunately, concrete is also an environmentally damaging material. Instead, try recycled rubber. It's among a number of eco-friendly patio materials. Plus, it's softer underfoot than concrete and can reduce impacts if there are kids running around.

Recycled rubber can come from industrial waste and other scrap products, but it's mostly made from old car and truck tires. It's considered sustainable for a couple of reasons. Firstly. it prevents at least some of the millions of scrap tires thrown away each year from going into landfills. Making recycled rubber also uses less energy than making new rubber, whether that's natural rubber from trees or synthetic rubber made from petrochemicals.

Recycled rubber pavers are available from a variety of sources, including home improvement stores, online retailers, and specialty suppliers. They are easy to install and can be cut and shaped with a utility knife rather than needing an angle grinder or tile saw as you would for concrete pavers. If you're thinking about other hardscaping in your yard, beyond the patio, recycled rubber can be used for walkways and even driveways.

Unlike concrete pavers, recycled rubber is forgiving of uneven loading, won't crack due to frost and doesn't get slippery in the rain. However, the sun's harsh UV rays can eventually cause fading. If you are going to use them for a driveway, it's important to choose the correct type and ensure the sub-base is properly prepared, as heavy traffic might cause damage. Over a period of time, the give in the surface can result in indentations from patio furniture. It probably goes without saying that it's not a safe surface if you're looking for somewhere to put a DIY fire pit in your yard.

There's also the question of visual appeal. As recycled rubber products become more popular, the range can be expected to expand, but at the moment, it doesn't offer the same choice of colors and textures that you'll find with concrete pavers. However, while the costs of the different materials may be similar (depending on style), installing recycled rubber pavers is generally considered a simple task, so you could save money if you do it yourself.

Recycled rubber pavers are a softer, more eco-friendly option than concrete, but they won't be for everyone. Fortunately, with more and more people focusing on sustainability in their homes and yards, there is a greater choice of recycled, eco-friendly alternatives than ever before.