Looking to freshen up your outdoor space with new patio materials? Patio pavers and cobblestones beautifully accentuate every outdoor space. When creating a patio, you’ll choose a material and then a type of paver – the actual stepping stone that will make up the patio. With plenty of types, materials, and shapes to choose from, there’s something for every style. This guide will cover types of patio pavers and patio paver materials for all types of patios.

Types of Patio Materials

There are several different types of patio materials and each come with their own benefits. Read on to find out more.

Travertine: Travertine is a stone with natural cream and white colors. Travertine is an especially durable material so if you’re looking to create a patio that will last, opt for patio materials made of travertine.

Marble: Marble is made from rock that has been recrystallized. Marble is one of the most beautiful types of patio pavers and will instantly add value to your home. Marble is also known for being heat-resistant. If you want your patio to stay cool under the hot sun, opt for marble.

Quartzite: Quartzite is a stone that has natural specks and lines throughout. This naturally beautiful material creates types of patios that will last forever – it has the ability to retain its look for years because it is UV ray–resistant.

Composite: Composite is an option that takes the best elements from different patio materials and blends them together. Composite patio paver materials are a great option if you want to customize your patio materials.

Granite: Granite is a rock that has natural (and sometimes sparkly) specks in it. While granite is another stone that is highly resistant to scratches and chips, it also has a wide variety of colors and patterns. Granite allows you to customize the look of your patio, while also ensuring long-lasting durability.

Sandstone: Sandstone is a beautiful rock with naturally swirling patterns in a cream color scheme. Sandstone is very durable but also easy to replace. If you’re a renter or someone who likes to switch things up every few years, choose sandstone for easy removal.

Slate: Slate is rock formed from clay or volcanic ash. Slate is completely fire-resistant, which makes it ideal for areas that might come into contact with fire. If you have an outdoor fire pit or a grill, opt for slate patio materials for maximum safety.

Types of Patio Pavers

Pavers are also called patio stones. These are the stepping stones that you’ll lay to create your patio or walkway. There are a few types of pavers to choose from:

Paving Stones: Paving stones are large and flat pieces of stone. These types of patio pavers are mostly used for patios and walkways, but can also be used as decorative pieces in your yard or garden.

Pool Copings: Pool copings are pieces of stone used to cap the edge of your pool. These patio materials come with a rounded edge that will create a seamless transition from patio to pool.

Boulders & Slabs: Boulders and slabs are irregularly shaped pieces of stone. These are often used for decoration or for creating a natural boundary. Opt for boulders and slabs if you like types of patios that have distinct sections.

Patio Material Shapes

Rectangle: Rectangle patio paver materials offer a neat look that can resemble long and thin planks like hardwood or shiplap. Opt for rectangular types of patio pavers if you’re aiming for an indoor/outdoor style.

Square: Square patio pavers keep everything neat and easy to install. Since you’re working with the same dimensions for every piece, installing these types of patio pavers can be an easy DIY project.

Cobblestone: Cobblestone patio pavers are irregularly shaped and resemble large pieces of gravel. These types of patio pavers can be used to fill in any open gaps between paving stones. They are easy to install and don’t require professional installation.

Random: Randomly shaped types of patio pavers vary in shape and size. Some may be paving stones while others may be boulders and slabs. Opt for this kind of patio material if you want your patio to be completely unique.

Different patio materials can create entirely different types of patios. But now that this guide has covered types of patio pavers and patio paver materials, you can feel confident about choosing what’s best for your patio. Once you’ve picked out your patio materials, check out our guide How to Choose the Best Outdoor Furniture for furnishing ideas.