You've likely heard real estate professionals and home improvement influencers talking about the importance curb appeal. But have you ever considered the untapped potential of bluestone pavers in elevating your home's appeal and value?
Though bluestone has been a feature of Melbourne’s architectural scene for decades, it has experienced an explosion of popularity in the last few years. This article will discuss the benefits of using bluestone pavers and how they can improve your home's curb appeal.
The Power of Curb Appeal: More Than Just Aesthetic
When it comes to enhancing your property value, the concept of curb appeal is a game-changer. This term might seem like a buzzword thrown around by real estate professionals and home improvement enthusiasts, but it holds more weight than you might think. Curb appeal is not just about beautifying your home's exterior; it's an investment that yields tangible returns.
So, what exactly is curb appeal? In essence, it's the first impression your home leaves on anyone who passes by or visits. It’s that eye-catching factor that makes people double-take, appreciating the visual harmony between your home's architecture, landscape, and the overall neighbourhood.
Now, it's worth noting that curb appeal goes beyond simply improving aesthetics. An array of studies have underlined that a well-maintained and attractive exterior can increase a home's sale price by up to 7%.
This might not sound like much initially, but when you factor in the cost of a property, especially in Australia's competitive real estate market, this percentage translates into a significant amount. With the average home price of a home in Melbourne sitting around $900,000, this increase could net you an extra $63,000 when you sell!
But why does curb appeal matter to potential buyers? The answer lies in psychology. A high curb appeal creates a positive perception of your property, making potential buyers more likely to invest. This is because a well-maintained exterior is often indicative of an equally well-kept interior. It assures prospective buyers that the property has been taken care of, reducing the likelihood of hidden maintenance issues.
Ready to add a touch of elegance to your home's exterior? Paver Shop offers high-quality and affordable bluestone pavers in Thomastown, Preston, Taylors Lakes and beyond.
Why Choose Bluestone Pavers?
Attractive
With an inherent aesthetic appeal, bluestone pavers create an inviting atmosphere that speaks volumes about the homeowner's taste and style. Their organic and earthy hues, ranging from cool blues to deep charcoals, are also known to blend beautifully with various architectural styles. All in all, their stunning appearance has made them a popular option for a wide array of landscaping projects.
Durable
What truly sets bluestone pavers apart is their impressive durability. As a natural stone paver, they have a high resistance to wear and tear; this means that each paver is built to withstand the test of time, as well as Australia’s weather. Their notable compressive strength allows them to handle heavy foot traffic, vehicular movement, and even the weight of outdoor furniture without any significant damage. This makes them an ideal choice for driveways, pathways, patios, pool decks, and other outdoor spaces that require a strong paving material.
Versatile
From polished and honed finishes that exude a sleek, modern vibe to rough and natural surfaces that lend a more rustic, traditional feel, there's a bluestone paver to fit every homeowner's vision. Their versatility extends to the variety of shapes and sizes available. Whether you prefer the uniformity of square and rectangular pavers or the whimsical charm of crazy pavers, bluestone pavers can do it all.
Locally Sourced
Supporting local businesses is another compelling reason to opt for bluestone pavers. We use locally sourced bluestone, contributing to the Victorian economy and ensuring the quality and authenticity of the material. Made from locally sourced natural stone, they carry a lower carbon footprint than even other natural stone pavers, aligning with the growing desire for sustainable home improvement options.
Types of Bluestone Pavers You Can Choose From
Bluestone pavers are truly a hidden gem, waiting to accentuate your home's curb appeal with their unique charm and versatility. They come in a wide range of designs, from whimsical crazy pavers to the more traditional tumbled cobblestones.
Bluestone Crazy Pavers
When we talk about 'crazy pavers', we're referring to an irregular, mosaic-like pattern that can infuse a sense of fun and creativity into your garden. They are a popular choice among homeowners with a flair for the unique and unconventional.
Bluestone Tumbled Cobblestones
Tumbled cobblestones offer a more traditional, old-world charm, evoking the cobbled laneways of Melbourne’s CBD. These robust and textured stones are ideal for driveways, creating a sturdy surface that can withstand heavy traffic while maintaining its aesthetic appeal.
Bluestone Stepping Stones
Stepping stones can create a path through your garden, leading the eye (and foot) on a journey around your property. They’ve become increasingly popular, especially as standard turf lawns are replaced with mulch and native plants. This is because the bluestone pavers provide an easy-to-traverse surface while blending beautifully with Australian flora.
Bluestone Flat Pavers
The simplicity of flat pavers can sometimes be overlooked in the pursuit of more elaborate designs. However, these subtle additions can significantly impact your home's exterior. Flat pavers used for pathways can provide a streamlined, modern look that subtly elevates your home's exterior.
Things to Consider
When planning to incorporate bluestone pavers, consider the overall aesthetic and functionality you want to achieve. If you're aiming for a rustic look, tumbled cobblestones might be the way to go. For a more modern appeal, flat pavers could be your best bet.
And don't forget to think about your climate, as bluestone's heat retention properties can make it a warm surface during the summer months. Opt for a lighter colour, or use bluestone in shaded areas to enjoy a cool, comfortable surface all day long.
Bluestone Pavers 101: Frequently Asked Questions
How easy is it to install bluestone pavers?
Installing bluestone pavers is a task that requires meticulous planning and precision. While this can be a fun DIY project for some, it can be challenging for those without experience in masonry or landscaping. It's recommended to seek professional help to ensure the pavers are installed correctly, which will save you time and potential rework in the long run.
What type of maintenance do bluestone pavers need?
Bluestone pavers are known for their durability and resistance to wear, making them a minimal maintenance natural stone product. However, regular cleaning with a non-acidic cleaner and water is essential to keep them looking their best. Avoid strong acids or bases like vinegar or bleach, as these could discolour or damage the stone. Sealing your pavers can also add an extra layer of protection, enhancing their longevity and maintaining their aesthetic appeal.
Are there any downsides to installing bluestone pavers?
Like any home improvement project, there are pros and cons to consider. Bluestone pavers might initially cost more than other materials such as concrete pavers or brick due to their superior quality. They can also be quite heavy, which might complicate the installation process. However, their durability, versatility, and unique aesthetic appeal often outweigh these concerns.
Any tips for choosing the right bluestone pavers?
When selecting bluestone pavers, consider factors such as colour, size, and finish. These pavers come in a range of hues, from cool blues to warm browns, allowing you to match them with your home's exterior. The size and finish of the pavers would depend on their intended use and your personal style. For instance, larger, tumbled pavers might be ideal for a rustic, old-world charm, while smaller, polished ones might better suit a modern, sleek design.
Quality Bluestone Pavers For Sale in Melbourne
Bluestone pavers offer numerous benefits for homeowners looking to enhance their property's curb appeal with a touch of elegance. From their unique aesthetic to their robust nature and versatility, bluestone pavers are an excellent choice for almost any property. So consider incorporating them into your home's design today!
Convinced? Check out Paver Shop’s huge range of bluestone pavers for sale across Melbourne. We can supply, install and maintain pavers of all sizes, colours and types, keeping them looking great for decades to come. Not sure what the best option is for your home? Come visit our showroom, and our friendly team will walk you through and find the best style for your outdoor spaces. Call today on 03 9462 4325 to make an appointment.