Choosing Pavers and Natural Stones for a Comfortable Patio

Creating an inviting outdoor space involves more than just aesthetics; it also requires careful consideration of the materials used. In regions with scorching summer temperatures, selecting pavers and natural stones that stay cool under the sun is essential for ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience.

1. Cool Touch Natural Stones:

   Travertine: With its natural pores and excellent heat-dissipating properties, travertine stays cool underfoot even in intense sunlight. Its ability to reflect rather than absorb heat makes it a popular choice for those seeking comfort.

Marble: If Travertine is not the looks you want to go for, but staying cool is top of mind, marble pavers is a great alternative. This natural stone is often used around pools or on patios. Their lighter color help reflect the sun allowing for a cool experience when in contact with your foot.

   Limestone: Limestone's light colors and heat-reflective qualities contribute to a cooler surface. This natural stone provides a comfortable walking surface, even during the hottest parts of the day.

2. Cooling Pavers for Bare Feet:

   Concrete Pavers: Concrete pavers, especially in lighter shades, tend to stay cooler as they reflect sunlight. Textured finishes can also add comfort, preventing the pavers from becoming uncomfortably hot.

   Porcelain Pavers: Known for their low heat absorption, porcelain pavers provide a cool surface for bare feet. With a variety of designs and colors, they offer both practicality and aesthetic appeal.

  Permeable Pavers: These pavers, with their unique design allowing water penetration, not only contribute to a cooler surface but also reduce heat retention, creating a more pleasant outdoor environment.

3. Products to Approach with Caution:

   Dark-Colored Pavers: Pavers with dark colors, whether natural stone or concrete, can absorb and retain more heat. While they may be visually appealing, they might not be the best choice for those seeking a consistently cool surface. If you want to incorporate dark colored pavers into a hardscape without the concern of burning your feet, adding it as a thin boarder can provide a balanced look.

   Bluestone: Bluestone is a darker shaded natural stone, grey blue in color, that does absorb heat rather easily. Bluestone can get very hot when exposed to direct sun for hours on end. Be mindful of the applications you incorporate this natural stone into your landscape.

Flagstone: Another natural stone that is darker is color, flagstone does absorb heat when exposed to sunlight for an extended period of time. Flagstone does not get as hot as bluestone, but will retain heat more than other options available.

   - Brick Pavers: Traditional clay brick pavers, especially in darker hues, can become quite hot in direct sunlight. Consider lighter alternatives or provide shaded areas if you prefer the classic look of brick. There are also some concrete paver options that look similar to brick without the heat resistance concern.

Designing an outdoor space that remains cool and comfortable under the sun involves thoughtful material selection. If you are still uncertain of the material(s) to select, consulting with a design professional can assist in picking out the right product(s) for your project!