With over 300 days of sunshine a year, living in Denver has its perks—endless blue skies, beautiful views of the Front Range, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy your outdoor space. But here’s the flip side: that same glorious sunshine can be brutal on your hardscape. UV rays don’t just fade fabrics—they can bleach, crack, and degrade your patio, driveway, or walkways over time.
If you’ve invested in a beautiful paver patio or you’re planning to, it’s essential to think about how all that sunlight impacts your materials. Fortunately, you’ve got options—especially UV-resistant pavers designed to withstand Colorado’s intense sun.
Let’s break it all down so you can make the smartest, most durable choice for your outdoor living space.
Why Sunlight in Denver Is Tough on Hardscapes
You might be wondering: isn’t sunlight the same everywhere? Not exactly. Because of Denver’s elevation (we’re a mile closer to the sun, literally), UV radiation is much more intense than in many other places in the U.S.
Here’s what makes it worse:
- Thin Atmosphere: At higher altitudes, there’s less atmosphere to block UV rays.
- Low Humidity: Denver’s dry climate contributes to quicker wear and tear.
- Temperature Swings: Hot days and cool nights cause expansion and contraction, which stresses outdoor materials.
All these factors combined can spell disaster for hardscapes made with the wrong materials.
What Are UV-Resistant Pavers?
UV-resistant pavers are specifically engineered to handle the damaging effects of sunlight. Whether made from concrete, porcelain, or natural stone, these pavers are treated or manufactured to maintain color, resist surface degradation, and stay structurally sound—even under Denver’s relentless sun.
Benefits of UV-Resistant Pavers:
- Maintain their rich color longer
- Less prone to surface cracking or chalking
- Durable enough for foot traffic and driveways
- Often come with long-term warranties
They’re not just functional—they’re also beautiful and versatile, which means you don’t have to sacrifice design for durability.
Types of UV-Resistant Pavers You Should Know About
1. Concrete Pavers with Integral Color
These pavers are mixed with UV-stable pigments during manufacturing, which means the color runs through the entire paver—not just on the surface.
- Great for patios and walkways
- Typically cost-effective
- Available in tons of shapes and textures
2. Porcelain Pavers
These high-density tiles are impervious to UV rays, water, and even freezing temps—ideal for Denver’s climate swings.
- Ultra-low maintenance
- Rich color that doesn’t fade
- Perfect for modern, sleek outdoor designs
3. Natural Stone with UV Sealer
Not all natural stone holds up the same, but sealing them with a high-quality UV-protective product can make a big difference.
- Flagstone and bluestone are popular choices
- Needs resealing every few years
- Gorgeous, organic look
Key Factors to Consider Before Choosing Pavers
It’s not just about picking the right material—it’s also about how you plan, install, and maintain your hardscape.
Here’s what to think about:
- Orientation: South-facing patios will get the most intense sun.
- Surrounding Shade: Trees, pergolas, and umbrellas can reduce UV exposure.
- Slope & Drainage: Prevent water pooling which can magnify sun damage.
- Usage: Heavy traffic areas need more durable surfaces.
Best Practices for Long-Term Protection
Even UV-resistant pavers need a little love. Follow these steps to keep your hardscape in top shape:
- Use a UV-Protective Sealer: Especially for natural stone and older concrete.
- Clean Regularly: Dust and debris can degrade surfaces faster when baked on by the sun.
- Re-seal As Needed: Typically every 2–3 years, depending on product and exposure.
- Avoid Pressure Washing at High PSI: It can strip sealers and surface color.
Who Makes the Best UV-Resistant Pavers?
If you’re going to invest in UV-resistant pavers, you want to know they’ll last. Here are some top brands known for delivering durability and style under the sun.
- Belgard – Offers a wide selection of UV-stable pavers designed for high-sun exposure.
- Unilock – Known for integral color technology and advanced surface protection.
- Techo-Bloc – Combines stunning design with strong UV resistance.
- MSI Surfaces – Offers porcelain pavers that are virtually fade-proof.
- Nicolock – Features color-through technology and color-blend options.
- Angelus Paving Stones – Excellent for high-altitude applications like Denver.
- Pavestone – Economical with good fade-resistance and surface durability.
FAQ: What Denver Homeowners Want to Know
Do I really need UV-resistant pavers in Denver?
Yes. With over 300 days of sunshine and high UV intensity, standard pavers will degrade faster in Denver’s climate.
How long do UV-resistant pavers last?
With proper installation and maintenance, these pavers can easily last 20–30 years or more.
Can I install UV-resistant pavers myself?
While DIY is possible, proper base prep and leveling are crucial in Denver’s freeze-thaw climate. Professional installation is recommended for longevity.
How much do UV-resistant pavers cost?
Expect to pay anywhere from $5 to $15 per square foot for materials. Porcelain and premium options cost more.
Do I still need to seal UV-resistant pavers?
For concrete and stone, sealing adds extra protection and extends lifespan. Porcelain usually doesn’t require sealing.
Let’s Make Your Hardscape Sun-Proof
You already know the Denver sun doesn’t mess around. But with the right UV-resistant paver solution, your outdoor space can stay beautiful and functional for years.
If you’re ready to upgrade your patio, walkway, or driveway with long-lasting materials designed for our unique climate, we’re here to help. Contact us at (720) 580-3677 to talk with a local expert who understands what your hardscape needs to survive and thrive in Denver.