Clay pavers – sustainable and ecological 

Sustainable construction means sustainable materials. Clay pavers have been used for many centuries. Our bricks are extremely sustainable and ecologically responsible for a number of different reasons.

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The average lifespan of clay pavers is around 135 years. The specific composition of the clay and the firing process mean that they are less porous than regular facing bricks and bricks, making them extremely resistant to extreme frost, pressure, wear, and aggressive substances.

But a longer lifespan is not the only sustainable property! In contrast to concrete, clay pavers are free from colourants and top coatings. Their natural colour is achieved through a combination of different types of clay, minerals, and sand. That means they're also colourfast. Weather conditions and other external factors will not affect the colour of the pavers. On the contrary, clay paving becomes more attractive as it ages. Research also suggests that around 90% of clay pavers are reused, making them a full-fledged component of the circular economy.

Vandersanden’s production process for clay pavers has been designed to be as energy efficient as possible. We only use green energy and even generate our own renewable energy via solar roofs on our plants. In addition, we reuse the heat produced by our energy-efficient tunnel kiln ovens to dry the stones before they are fired.

We also minimise waste as much as possible. The rinsing water used in the product process is purified via an internal cycle and then reused. What’s more, a large proportion of our river clay is extracted locally, reducing transport and minimising emissions. 

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We use river clay in our clay mixtures, officially a renewable raw material. The river deposits more clay than we extract as an industry. Extracting the clay from the floodplains of rivers helps to enhance river water safety and reduce the risk of flooding.

From clay quarry site to biodiverse nature area

The excavation helps to create a new and varied natural landscape that becomes home to countless plants and animals. This way, the extraction of clay helps to boost biodiversity.

In recent years, the ceramics industry has succeeded in limiting its emissions while at the same time producing a high-quality and sustainable product. It’s the brick industry's way of contributing to and preserving our ecosystem.

In a nutshell, clay pavers are an extremely sustainable solution for your garden paving. This is also reflected in the high economic residual value of the product – even after decades of use, clay pavers can be reintegrated into the design of your garden. With their timeless look, your garden design will always fit with the times.

Decorative clay paving has been a part of our culture for hundreds of years, and the natural weathering only helps to make the product more attractive and more authentic. Being a bona fide natural product, it can be ideally combined with the green of your garden like other sustainable materials such as wood.

Clay pavers are also sustainable, and the many joints between the pavers help with water drainage in the event of heavy rainfall. Our range of moulded bricks is supplied with spacers. These bricks give appealing, straight lines in the streetscape with a guaranteed joint width of approx. 3 mm. This helps to increase water permeability.

Discover our garden colours

You might already have a clear idea or design for your garden or public space project, or perhaps you want to have an idea of the options first. Wherever you’re starting from, it begins with inspiration, and we’d be happy to help you along the way. Be surprised by the endless possibilities offered by Vandersanden clay pavers and get a taste for the unparalleled appearance and authentic sense of experience.

Request inspiration guide for clay pavers