Pavers and the Sun – How Do They Get Along?

July 29

As many homeowners have found out, those gorgeous paving stones in your backyard can get uncomfortably hot during summer, especially if you live in a city like San Diego. Luckily, paver companies offer different types of materials, some of which are designed to be more heat-resistant than the traditional options. In the following article, we will provide you with some tips on how to keep your pavers colder and more comfortable to walk on during sweltering summer days. Keep reading to learn more.

Do pavers get hot in the sun?

All surfaces get hotter when exposed to direct sunlight, and pavers are no exception. This occurs because they naturally absorb sunlight and thus become progressively warmer throughout the day. The only question is whether they will heat up enough to make it uncomfortable to stand on them.  If you enjoy walking around your yard barefoot, or if you have children or pets who will be crawling on the ground, choosing the right paving material will make all the difference. 

Are there pavers that don’t get hot?

Pavers that do not heat up at all do not exist, but there are some heat-resistant models that do not get uncomfortably warm. Here are a few things you should consider before you decide to put pavers in your yard or replace the old ones:
  • Type of pavers – Red brick is definitely not the first option for cool pavers. Concrete pavers are a slightly better option. Porcelain or marble pavers have proven to be extremely comfortable during hot days and easy to maintain, with the material itself being extremely resilient and long-lasting.
When it comes to keeping cool at high temperatures, the best paving material is probably travertine. This type of stone can be as much as 30% colder than concrete pavers, and it also looks beautiful.
  • Colors – The darker the color of the pavers, the warmer it will get. You can choose between white, yellow or light gray variants and be sure that you will not be uncomfortable if you go for a walk. On the other hand, keep in mind that the lighter the paver, the faster it will get dirty, so you will have to clean it more often.

How do I keep my pavers from getting hot?

The easiest and simplest way to cool your pavers is to spray them with a garden hose. However, this solution is temporary because the water will evaporate quickly. Another option is to install fans to make the hot air circulate, but the noise they make may bother you too much.  You can also install a sprinkler system in your yard, but it is a much more expensive investment. The simplest solution is to plant trees around the driveway and pavers, therefore providing them with constant shade.

Are there pavers that don't get hotWhere can I find the leading San Diego paver companies?

Creating a comfortable and eye-catching backyard is a complex process that requires knowledge, skill, time and energy. Why invest so much effort when you can spend a sunny afternoon at the San Diego Air & Space Museum and leave the work to the pros?  Whether you need a full installation or you need help restoring your pavers to their old shine – you’re in the right place! As the leading landscaping company in San Diego, Pacific Dreamscapes is fully equipped to meet your needs with utmost care and efficiency. Contact us today! Whether you’re looking to remove moss from your pavers or wondering whether rain will damage your paver sand, we’ll be happy to answer your questions and provide you with a comprehensive range of landscaping services.