Which is cheaper pavers or concrete

When choosing hardscaping for your driveway, pool deck, patio, or garden, there are typically two options that involve concrete — poured concrete slabs and concrete pavers. Poured concrete slabs are large concrete surfaces that are poured as wet concrete mixes onsite and left to cure as a single slab. They are one of the most common methods for constructing concrete driveways.

Concrete pavers come in many different shapes, sizes, and colors, and can be arranged in various patterns. However, there are numerous techniques that can be done to transform the appearance of concrete. It can be stained, scored or embedded with decorative stones. Additionally, stamped concrete is designed to resemble paving stones.

Your budget and personal preferences should determine whether you want authentic pavers or a simulated version. If cost is an issue, do not assume that one of these products will automatically be more expensive than the other.

Paving stones and stamped concrete are often very close in price, so it is worth getting estimates for both options to help you determine which is right for your project. Concrete slabs can often be very slippery when wet. This can cause cars to lose traction and leave tire marks on a newly installed concrete driveway.

Additionally, a slippery pool deck or patio can be very dangerous if someone were to fall on the hard concrete deck. Pavers are manufactured to be non-skid and non-slip. This means vehicles will have better traction, which will help prevent tire marks, and there is a reduced risk of slipping on a wet pool deck or patio. In terms of value, paving stones are considered to be one of the only hardscape products that instantly add value to your home upon installation.

The ROI will fluctuate based off various factors such as holding period, property value, etc. In regards to the value of concrete slabs, since many homes use concrete slabs as a paving material, the ROI is minimal. The best way to stamp the image of your home into the minds of your visitors is to create a remarkable first impression. A welcoming walkway or a charming patio will capture the attention and interest of your guests.

In terms of cost, concrete slabs are generally less expensive upfront, but may incur more costs over time as it needs to be repaired or replaced. Stamped concrete and paving stones both have a higher upfront cost than slab concrete. Stamped concrete can have similar issues to slab concrete in terms of staining or cracking, which may incur higher costs over time. Paving stones, which are usually in the same price range as stamped concrete, are easiest to repair or replace if damage occurs over time.

Looking at the costs and benefits of the two paving solutions for concrete slabs and pavers, it is apparent that pavers is the best paving option. Due to their versatility, aesthetic and lifetime product guarantee, pavers are quickly becoming the preferred hardscape solution among homeowners and contractors. If you are interested in working with the best paving stone installation crews in Southern California, we are here to help!

Skip to content. Pavers vs Concrete: Comparing the Costs and Benefits If you are considering replacing or adding a walkway, patio, or driveway to your outdoor living area, you may become befuddled over the myriad of choices you have. Also, take into consideration preventative measures like covering the patio and applying a sealant. This increases the longevity and strength of the concrete. Pavers tend to break or move, which makes the whole area unappealing.

However, pricing depends on how much work is necessary to make the whole space attractive. After considering concrete and pavers installation and repair costs, you can make a decision.

While price is a huge determinant, also consider the aesthetics. Remember, while concrete is cheaper to install, pavers are a complete project. You have to think about how to make the concrete attractive.

It can look dull and unappealing. So, you end up spending more to make it look better. Many people prefer to place rags, install a carpet, paint, or use other ideas to improve its aesthetics. Another consideration before you pick one of the two is the value of your property. While concrete is an excellent addition to your home, pavers add value to it. Therefore, potential buyers can pay more when you have pavers in place. Consider this fact if you ever intend to resell your home in the future.

That also means you have to keep maintaining and repairing the pavers. It speaks volumes about the aesthetics of the property. Concrete and pavers are an excellent choice for your home. The two have numerous benefits that make them worth the extra effort. However, concrete is cheaper than pavers when considering the costs. For instance, a coat of paint can go a long way into transitioning your deck or walkway. Keep in mind the two are long-lasting and versatile, but the extent of damage depends on the environment.

Still, you can choose to use the two in your home for different areas. For instance, concrete for driveway and walkway while pavers go on the patio, thus minimizing costs. Hubert Miles is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.

I've been conducting home inspections for 17 years. I started HomeInspectionInsider. Refrigerator quality is integral to the household. This is why, while the market may hype up some refrigerator brands, you want to be cautious of marketing traps. Based on marketplace reviews, what Roof venting uses air pressure to remove heat from the attic, which in turn keeps your home comfortable. An attic that is not venting well can cause condensation, damage the roof structure, and cause Skip to content Are you considering transforming your patio, driveway, or walkway?

Prices exclude specialty designs and finishes. Quick Article Navigation Show. What is Concrete? CONS Limited design options Repairs are complicated and costly Stains over time Can split and crack Can be affected by outside temperature Can become slippery when wet. Appearance Pavers are usually more visually appealing than concrete slabs 1 because you can manipulate the pavers and create designs, and they come in a variety of colors.

Costs The cost to install pavers or a concrete slab depends on the surface area that you want covered, materials, labor, and removal of previous pavers or concrete. Durability Concrete slabs are more prone to splitting and cracking , especially if the ground beneath them shifts.

Safety Concrete slabs can become slippery when wet, especially if they have been treated with a protective sealant or been painted. Was this guide helpful to you? Yes No. Feedback Send.

Thanks for your feedback! Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet Definitions in laymen's terms, cost considerations, pictures and things you need to know. See full cheat sheet. How much does it cost to install pavers or concrete in my city? Related comparison guides. Slab vs Crawl Space Foundation. Related cost guides. Arbor Installation. Backyard Pond Installation.

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Build a Patio. Build Covered Patio. Lay Stamped Concrete Patio. Build a Pergola. Build a Playground.