When you're first setting out to plan a big home renovation, such as a new backyard paver design, there's a lot of questions you'll have to consider. Is the patio brand new, or will it be replacing an existing one? If so, is the ground laid out the way you'd like it, or will you need to make some changes to the shape or level of the area? Not least of all your decisions will by what type of stone paver you'll use for your new backyard patio. Should you use travertine pavers, or brick?

While both stones are natural and lovely to look at, one type of paver is likely to last decades or even centuries longer than the other. Travertine pavers are made from high-quality stone that will not crack or fade the way brick pavers do. Travertine is so durable and long-lasting that it was used by ancient Romans, and many of their structures built with this tried-and-true material are still standing today! If you're looking for a look that lasts, travertine pavers are your best investment option.

Why does travertine last longer than brick?
There are several reasons your travertine pavers will outlive brick pavers. One important reason is that bricks are more porous and less dense than travertine, making them more susceptible to the freeze-and-thaw cycle. During this cycle, stone absorbs water from precipitation like rain or snow, at which point it freezes, placing pressure on the stone. When the weather warms, the water unfreezes and the cycle may start over again. Because bricks tend to have more nooks and crannies that the water can get into, they are more likely to break during this cycle.

Another reason travertine pavers last longer than bricks is that they aren't as vulnerable to damage from plants. In some cases, plants may try to grow where they don't belong – such as in between your patio pavers. The disturbance that these roots create can add pressure to stone and cause it to crack, especially if that stone is already weakened from the freeze-and-thaw cycle. While bricks may suffer damage from grasses, weeds and even other-wise friendly garden plants who creep in between your patio pavers, travertine is strong enough to withstand even the toughest roots and tendrils. In fact, if you use travertine pavers, you'll notice far fewer plants are able to take root between your patio stones at all.

Are brick pavers better for poolside areas?
Many of those who chose to go the DIY route with a paving project believe that brick is the best choice for poolside paving stones because it's porous surface ensures a no-slip walking area. However, travertine pavers also come in a no-slip format known as tumbled pavers. Tumbled pavers are more porous than non-tumbled pavers and are able to absorb water more effectively, giving you a no-slip walkway and patio area by the pool. These pavers will last longer than brick pavers because the water they absorb will be less likely to cause cracks and breakage, and they are more impervious to the damage plants often cause to other pavers.

In short, unless you simply prefer the aesthetic of brick, travertine pavers are the more practical option. These beautiful, natural stones are tougher and more long-lasting, making them a good investment for any homeowner looking to complete a renovation. Talk to the friendly and knowledgeable customer service representatives at Travertine Mart online or by phone to learn more about the benefits of using travertine pavers for your next home remodel.