Pavers vs. Stamped Concrete

If you are interested in getting a patio for your yard then the first decision is typically choosing between concrete or hardscape pavers. While both products offer an attractive aesthetic and lasting durability, there are some differences that we like to educate our clients on. After reading this post, you should be able to make a more informed decision about which type of patio is best for your space.

Cost
Generally speaking a stamped concrete patio will be about the same price as a paver patio once all of the installation expenses are considered. We offer a wide range of pavers that are at a similar price point to stamped concrete, and only the most premium paver selections represent a significant price increase over stamped concrete. On the concrete side, a standard broom finish is the only option that will typically represent a significant price savings compared to a paver patio. If you are trying to maximize the size of your patio for your budget, then it might be worth considering a standard concrete patio.

Appearance
Stamped concrete can be installed in a range of colors and patterns. Color stains can be applied to match the color of existing patios or brickwork, and stamps can be used to match the look of natural stone, tile, or even wood. However, paver patios offer additional options for customization by allowing flexibility for using different colors and sizes of pavers for accents and custom designs. If you are looking for full customization for your patio, then pavers will offer the most flexibility.

Maintenance
Paver patios should be sealed once a year, and occasionally it may be necessary to replace the polymeric sand between the joints to prevent settling and weed growth. Under ideal conditions, a concrete patio will require almost no maintenance. Sealing them once a year will help to preserve the appearance and integrity of the concrete over time, and regular cleaning can be done by sweeping or washing the patio. However, due to the potential for aggressive freezing and thawing in the Midwest, most concrete patios will eventually develop cracks. This leads to the topic of patio repairs.

Repairs
As mentioned above, most concrete patios will eventually form cracks when installed in a climate with freezing and thawing. With modern concrete mixes and proper installation, it is possible that the patio will last 10-15+ years without cracking, but unfortunately there is no way to guarantee this. Once a concrete patio cracks, the damaged sections can be raised with leveling compound, but there is no way to repair the visible cracks. With a paver patio, the construction allows for a limited amount of flexing in order to prevent settling, and the polymeric sand seals the joints to prevent freeze expansions. If any issues do arise, then the affected sections can be repaired or replaced without impacting the rest of the patio.

Conclusion
Our goal is to provide every client with the finished product they are looking for, so we are happy to install either type of patio. If you would like to discuss the patio options in more detail, then please get in touch to discuss your project.