There are many factors that you should consider before making a decision about the cost of pavers or concrete. Your budget is the most important factor. It may be tempting to choose the most expensive material if you have a budget. It’s important to consider the long-term effects of the material you choose, and the maintenance it may require.
A concrete driveway will generally cost less than pavers. However, driveways that are subject to a lot of wear and tear can develop cracks which will require expensive repairs. Although the initial cost of a paver driveway may be higher, it is much easier to maintain it as it ages. A concrete patio will cost you less upfront than a paver patio. However, it can be more prone to wear and tear from people who entertain on it. If you are considering selling your home, it is worth looking into which material will be more appealing to potential buyers. Every material has its advantages and disadvantages. This guide will help you decide which one is best for your home.
1. Paving stones are 10 to 15% more expensive than concrete.
Concrete is more expensive than pavers in the beginning. You might be wondering what pavers are. Pavers can be blocks, stones or bricks that are used to cover an area outside, such as a driveway, patio, or walkway. Although individual pavers can be cheaper than concrete, the labor and time required to lay pavers can make it more expensive. Concrete costs about $3 to $6 per sq. foot and pavers cost $8 to $25 per square feet. Concrete may be the best choice if your budget is tight. However, you will need to save money for future maintenance and repairs.
2. Concrete poured concrete is the most economical per square foot. However, the cost can rise if you add colors or patterns.
The cost of a basic concrete surface starts at $3 per square feet. However, the price will rise if you add accents like colors or designs. For example, stamped concrete is more appealing than regular concrete. You can make it look like stone or wood at a fraction the cost of these (often more expensive) materials. For more intricate designs, a basic stamped concrete design costs $8 per square feet. It can go up to $20 per sq. foot. Concrete can be stained by adding pigments to make it more colorful and interesting. Staining concrete can be purchased for $7 to $15 per square foot. You can also add brushing, stenciling and engraving to your concrete. Concrete enhancements can add $0.40-10 per square foot to concrete’s cost. If you do all the customizations, the concrete price may be comparable to pavers
3. Paving stones are stronger than concrete and can withstand greater pressure per square inch.
Paving bricks and stones can be used to enclose your driveway, whether you are using cement pavers or stone driveway paving. They are stronger than concrete and can support more weight before cracks appear. Concrete can support up to 2,250 psi, while pavers can withstand 8,000 psi. Concrete driveways are stronger than asphalt driveways.
Pavers are easier to replace and repair than concrete. You can replace a brick or stone that is damaged or missing without affecting others. The cost of repairs can be done yourself for as low as $0.50 per brick or stone, or free if you have any pavers left by your contractor. If your paver patio is complex and has multiple pavers that are broken, it may be worth contacting a professional to repair the damage.
4. Concrete is more susceptible to damage than pavers.
Concrete is more expensive than pavers, but it has its downsides. Concrete slabs are not as durable as pavers, so they can crack, stain and shift over time. This can cause drainage problems in your yard which could lead to another large bill. A drainage system for your backyard will cost you on average $4,000 but could run as high as $18,000 if there are major drainage issues.
Sometimes a power washer is enough to get rid of stains. However, some stains might not be able to be removed completely with this method. The homeowner has two options: either live with the stain or replace the concrete. It is more difficult than replacing individual pavers. A professional will need to remove a large portion of the concrete and pour new concrete. This takes more time, materials and money than just repairing a few stones. A synthetic sealant can be used to repair small, superficial cracks at $0.10 to $0.15 per foot. While minor concrete cracks may cost $300 to fix, the bill for major damage could reach $3,500.
5. Concrete and pavers both require regular maintenance, such as cleaning and sealing.
Concrete and pavers, no matter what material you choose to use, must be protected from the elements. Sealants protect concrete and pavers from the effects of UV rays and other environmental elements over time. To extend the life of concrete and pavers, sealants will be required after they have been poured. There are many sealants available and most homeowners can do the job themselves. However, it is easier to hire a professional and save time. Protective gear and special equipment are required to seal concrete or pavers. As an added layer of insurance, the driveway or patio can be sealed once it is done. Concrete and pavers must be cleaned prior to being resealed. Concrete can be sealed for $1.50 per square feet, while pavers can be cleaned and sealed for $2 per square.
Even if you are not resealing, seasonal power washing can benefit both materials. This is a safe and easy way to clean up debris and buildup on your patio or driveway. Most hardware stores rent power washers for a set time. This is usually between 4 and 7 hours.
6. Concrete and pavers can both deliver similar returns on investments, but it’s how they are used that matters.
You should always consider the potential resale value for your home if you intend to sell it in the future. When choosing between concrete or pavers, the most important thing is how they are used. A concrete patio that is well maintained and matches the rest of your backyard will be more valuable than a paver walkway that is covered in moss or missing bricks. A paver driveway with a simple, classic design may be more valuable than one that is stained or stamped concrete and doesn’t match the exterior. The bottom line: Small changes in outdoor areas can make a big difference if they improve the flow of the home or increase its visual appeal.
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