Are Wood Block Pavers Durable? [And Should They Be Sealed?]

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Wood pavers are currently blossoming on the paving materials market because of their unique appeal. You might be wondering whether this paver is perfect for you; if these can withstand certain weights and pressures, and if sealing them might be advantageous. Look no further, we have researched all you need to know about wood block pavers.

The durability of your wood paver depends on the type of wood itself. The right wood should last you for about 20 years with proper maintenance and should have anti-rot and anti-fungal properties. The wood should exhibit a natural aesthetic without any oil, stain, or paint and should feel consistently cool on the feet.

There are a lot more things to factor in when you choose wood block pavers. You will need to weigh if you are able to maintain it, if they fit your lifestyle, and if it can withstand certain weather conditions. They may be visually unique, but is it better than concrete and other paving materials? Should you treat it as other paving surfaces? Keep reading to find out!

Wicker patio sofa and furniture sitting outside on a rustic wooden balcony on a sunny afternoon - Are Wood Block Pavers Durable [And Should They Be Sealed]

Why Choose Wood Block Pavers?

contemporary wood living zone with terrace

Wood block pavers are increasing in popularity not only for their nature-themed aesthetic but also for their sustainability. With climate change, there is a growing demand for more eco-friendly materials and green spaces. Here are some of the reasons why you should consider choosing wood block pavers.

Wood is Permeable

Wood is highly permeable compared to concrete slabs, which means no water will be wasted even during the rainy season. It is also better for the environment as it helps prevent flooding, as well as nourishes the soil underneath.

Permeable pavers act as secondary soil. Since the wood is made into blocks, they can easily catch any stray water during the gardening process.

It is durable and long-lasting

Wood is durable and long-lasting if you choose a high-quality type. It is especially important to choose a good type if you intend on putting it in high-traffic areas such as driveways, walkways, and patios.

You need to choose one that is rot-resistant and has anti-fungal properties to prepare for weather changes. The last thing you want is your wood blocks getting eaten away by bacteria and moisture.

With the right maintenance, it can beautify your paving surface for 20 years.

It is more comfortable under your feet

Patio table and chairs sitting next to a barbecue outside on a rustic wooden balcony on a sunny afternoon

Wood block pavers are perfect if you have children who like to play when the sun is out. It is safer for their skin since it is cooler to the touch; with air, water, and water vapor freely flowing between the gaps of your blocks. This will effectively create a cooling effect and protect you from hot feet!

Wood pavers are low-maintenance

You will not need to worry about the cost of harsh chemical treatments with wood block pavers. These are natural products that need only the occasional sweeping and sealing. You may need to replace some sections of the block wood if necessary, but this will lengthen its lifespan.

Compared to other natural paving surfaces, wood block pavers require the least maintenance.

Should Wood Pavers Be Sealed?

You should still seal your wood pavers if you want to protect them from harsh elements. However, you should only use solutions that are specifically made for wood as to not harm its composition. There is also a specific sealer for block pavers that you should use to protect your paving surface.

What are block paving sealers?

Block paving sealers contain polyurethane which seals both the surface and the dried sand particles between each wood block. These sealers strengthen the surface by providing a barrier against dirt and bacteria which could shift and ruin your pavers.

You will need to apply specifically wood block paving sealers on your surface to maintain its structural integrity.

Check out this Wood Block Paving Sealer on Amazon

Wood Pavers and Sustainability

More people are actively participating in the sustainability movement. Wood pavers are a more sustainable solution compared to non-porous pavers and are better for the community. Here are some of the factors that make wood sustainable.

Read: "Paver Vs. Asphalt Driveway."

Stormwater Solution

Wood pavers are naturally absorbent, so they are more effective at absorbing stray stormwater than any other paving materials. Stormwater can be used to nourish vegetated surfaces, and that can only be done if every last drop of water is soaked through the ground.

If you want your garden to be a sustainable space even during the rainy season, permeable wood block pavers are perfect for you.

Low Carbon Footprint

There are no harsh chemicals or CO2-heavy machinery involved in the forming of wood pavers. From its formation to its function, wood pavers are more eco-friendly than any material on the market. You can install them on your garden or rooftop which you can then transform into an exclusively green space.

You will be one step closer to making your outdoor space a pure and natural area by installing wood block pavers.

Heat reduction

Since wood is more absorbent of water, air, vapor, and moisture easily seeps in and cools the surface. This is a localized cooling effect caused by evaporation, which can create a more comfortable and energy-efficient space.

This is a major benefit since regular asphalt and concrete tend to intensely heat up during the summer months, making it relatively uncomfortable.

Compressive strength

A high-quality wood paver should have a compressive strength of 70.188.629 pascals which makes it significantly stronger than concrete and asphalt. It is designed to withstand even big trucks, so you would not have to worry about its strength if you only intend to put it on your walkway, patio, or driveway.

How to Choose the Right Wood for your Paver

Wicker patio sofa and furniture sitting outside on a rustic wooden balcony on a sunny afternoon

To ensure that your wood pavers perform well in your landscape, you need to consider the wood material itself. You need to make sure that it will thoroughly be enjoyed by everyone without any inconveniences. You want to avoid wood that is prone to rotting and moisture build-up.

Here are the qualities to look for when you are trying to build your woodblock paver.

Anti-Fungal

Moisture accumulation is the culprit of fungi and bacteria. Wood block pavers will already solve this problem because of the breathable gaps, but the wood itself will need to be of high quality to prevent any risk.

Rot-Resistant

While wood has a reputation for rotting, there are woods that are naturally rot-resistant, which means you won't have to rely on chemicals for its upkeep. This will make your wood low-maintenance and durable, preventing expensive repairs and inconveniences.

Pros and Cons of Wood Pavers

You will need to weigh whether wood block pavers fit your lifestyle and aesthetic. Here are some of its pros and cons.

Wood Paver Pros

  • Wood pavers are generally easy to maintain and can be extra durable against weather changes and outdoor activities when pressure-treated.
  • Wood is also aesthetically pleasing and will pair well with a rustic vibe.
  • Investing in high-quality wood pavers will make your space polished and natural-looking.

Wood Paver Cons

  • High-quality wood pavers can be quite costly.
  • It will also require sealing the surface just as any paver surface to be maintained, so you will need to allow time for that.
  • Wood could also expand and contract when exposed to harsh elements, so you may need to replace some blocks when necessary.

Best Types of Wood Pavers

tables and chairs against lush vegetation background

There are specific types of wood that work best for building outdoor landscapes. These woods have usually been pressure-treated with copper to prevent rotting and insect infestation. Off course, you would still need to seal these woods to keep their luster and avoid weather-related damage and corrosion.

Remember that some wood can be costlier and less budget-friendly than others. Tropical wood such as ipe, purpleheart, and old-growth teak can cost you more because it is generally difficult to work with. You will want a paver that you can easily form according to your preference.

Here are the most recommended wood types that can function well as pavers:

  • Cypress Wood
  • White Cedar
  • Mulberry
  • Cedar
  • Black Locust Wood

Final Thoughts

Wood pavers are a great alternative if you want to install a natural material across your paving surface. Wood is a classic outdoor landscaping choice as it blends with the surroundings. As with any project, the key to making it last is to choose a material that is high-quality and durable.

If you enjoyed this article, check out this one: "Can You Grout Outdoor Pavers?"