Pavers vs Concrete – Which One Should You Choose

Pavers or concrete? It’s a hard decision, especially since they’re long-term investments that can impact your outdoor’s look and function. In Australia, concrete starts at about $65 per square metre, while pavers are often 15% pricier. But cost isn’t everything. Design, durability, and maintenance matter too, and can dramatically change the cost equation.

Below we’ll discuss the pros and cons of pavers and concrete to help you make an informed decision.

Is It Better to Use Pavers or Concrete?

TLDR:

Pavers are better for most landscaping projects – providing versatility, durability, and ease of repair. It is a more aesthetically pleasing option with less maintenance needed compared to concrete. While they’re initially more expensive, their longevity and ability to add value to your home make them a worthwhile investment.

Pavers vs Concrete: Let’s Break it Down

Design

Pavers, especially stone pavers, take the win. They come in a wide range of shapes, colours, and patterns, offering endless design possibilities. Whether you want a sleek modern patio, a rustic cobblestone driveway, or an intricate geometric walkway, pavers can make it happen. The variety of finishes, like smooth, textured, or tumbled, adds another layer of customisation.

Concrete, while less versatile in its raw form, can still offer some flexibility. With finishes like stamped, stencilled, or coloured concrete, you can mimic the look of stone, tiles, or even wood. However, these customisations often come at an additional cost and may not match the detailed look of individual pavers.

Winner: Pavers. Their versatility and customisation options make them the clear choice if design is your priority.

Installation

When it comes to installation, concrete pulls ahead by a long distance. Concrete is quicker and easier to install, requiring owners to pour, level, and let it cure. Wait for a few days and it’s good to go. Pavers, on the other hand, require more time and effort. Each piece is laid by hand over a compacted base and secured with joint sand – it’s more intricate, but the final product is often worth it.

Winner: Concrete

Durability and Maintenance

Pavers can handle heavy loads and adapt to ground movement, meaning they’re less likely to crack than concrete. Furthermore, pavers are easily replaceable, allowing for repairs if any damage occurs. Regular maintenance, like resealing and replacing joint sand, keeps them in top condition and protects against stains. Many pavers also come with slip-resistant finishes, ideal for areas exposed to water.

Concrete is durable too, but it can crack in regions with freeze-thaw cycles. Repairs, like patching or resurfacing, can also be visible, meaning it may not always look brand new. Regular sealing and cleaning can help protect against stains, but once cracks or chips occur, they’re challenging to fix without visible signs of repair.

Winner: Pavers. Their ability to withstand heavy loads and ground movement, as well as their easy maintenance, make them a clear winner in this category.

Cost

As mentioned earlier, pavers can be pricy, ranging from $100–$180 per square metre, including materials and labour. Furthermore, they’re harder to install, so DIY is simply out of the question for many.

On the other hand, plan concrete can cost as little as $50-$75 per square metre, while decorative options like coloured or exposed aggregate concrete are a bit pricier but still cheaper than pavers. Just keep in mind, concrete can crack over time, which might lead to extra repair costs.

Winner: Both. If you’re on a tight budget initially, concrete is the way to go. However, if you’re looking long-term, pavers may end up being the more cost-effective option due to their durability and low maintenance costs.

Return on Investment

Patios and paver walkways not only boost your home’s curb appeal but can also significantly increase its value. A Fall 2021 HomeLight survey found that pavers can deliver an impressive return on investment (ROI) of around 109%, translating to an average $3,563 increase in property value.

Concrete driveways, on the other hand, can also add significant value, with an estimated 5–10% increase in property value. For upscale properties, this could mean tens of thousands of dollars in added value. However, the actual impact depends on factors such as the quality of the concrete, the driveway’s size, and the overall aesthetics of the installation.

Winner: Pavers. While both options can add value to your home, pavers have a higher ROI due to their premium look and durability.

Usage Scenarios

  • Driveways: Pavers offer a premium, high-end finish, while concrete is a cost-effective choice for large areas.
  • Patios: Pavers excel with flexible designs and customisation. Concrete works but lacks versatility.
  • Walkways: Pavers suit intricate, winding paths; concrete is better for simple, straight layouts.
  • Pool Areas: Pavers are safer with slip-resistant finishes and a stylish look. Concrete is functional but less customisable.

When choosing between pavers and concrete for specific projects, it’s essential to consider factors like aesthetics, budget, and practicality. While concrete may be the affordable option for large, simple spaces, pavers’ superior design and safety features often make them the better choice for smaller, detailed, or high-traffic areas.

Winner: Pavers. Their versatility, style, and functionality make them the standout option across most applications.

Environmentally Conscious Choice

Pavers are a more environmentally friendly option compared to concrete. Concrete production is energy-intensive and generates significant carbon emissions, primarily due to cement manufacturing. In contrast, pavers are often made with less energy and can include recycled materials, reducing their environmental impact.

Pavers also promote better water drainage, especially when installed with gaps or as permeable pavers. This helps to reduce runoff, minimise flooding, and prevent erosion in outdoor spaces. Additionally, pavers can be reused or recycled, making them a sustainable choice for future projects.

Winner: Pavers. Their production process and design features make them the more eco-friendly option.

Conclusion

While concrete may seem like a more practical and affordable choice at first, pavers offer numerous benefits that outweigh the initial cost difference. From their versatility and design options to their safety features and environmental impact, pavers prove to be the superior option for various projects.

No matter what type of project you have in mind, consider all the factors discussed above before making your final decision between pavers and concrete. Ultimately, choosing pavers will provide a long-lasting, functional, and visually appealing addition to any outdoor space. So why settle for plain old concrete when you can elevate your space with beautiful pavers?  Keep these points in mind next time you’re planning an outdoor project!

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