One of the most difficult decisions you’ll make when designing your dream backyard patio is what materials to use. The floor will set the vibe for your entire patio, shaping its tone, energy, and flow.
Two of the most common materials used are concrete pavers and stone, and we’ll break down the benefits of each to help you make the best decision for you. For many, it will ultimately come down to budget, but the choice can have far-reaching consequences outside of what it will cost you in the short term.
Benefits of Using Concrete Pavers
Concrete pavers are outdoor flooring materials made of cement, sand, and gravel. They come in different sizes and colors and often mimic other materials at a fraction of the cost. The benefits of using concrete pavers include the following.
1. Affordable
Concrete pavers are often more affordable than other materials. They’re less expensive to manufacture, and those savings are passed along to the consumer. While it varies, you can typically expect to pay between $4 and $6 per square foot for materials alone. That does not include the cost to install them.
2. Uniform Design
Because concrete pavers are mass-manufactured, you will get a more uniform design. They will all be a similar size and shape, fitting perfectly together. Additionally, they will have a similar color and pattern. They can be designed to look like other materials, so you can get the same look and feel for a more affordable price tag.
3. Durability
Concrete pavers are durable. They can withstand up to 8,000 pounds per square inch, though the extract weight can depend on the pavers’ thickness. They will stand up against heavy foot traffic. If there’s a crack in a paver, you can simply replace the single paver instead of a complete section.
4. Low-maintenance
Concrete pavers are low maintenance. You should clean them each season to prevent staining and any weeds from growing. Use a power washer or brush to keep the surface clean. Additionally, you should reseal the pavers to help prolong their lifespan. Water-based sealers can be used every three to five years, while acrylic-based sealers can be used every two to five years. Do not alternate between sealant types for best results.
Benefits of Using Stone
Stone pavers are made of natural materials like granite, limestone, travertine, and sandstone. They’re often square or rectangular in size and can be used for outdoor hardscaping. There are many benefits of using stone pavers in your backyard.
1. Aesthetics
Stone pavers bring an organic look to any patio. Each paver is unique, and because they are naturally occurring, they have slight variations in color, texture, and size. Stone pavers often add a rustic feel to your patio despite being more expensive than concrete pavers.
2. Durable
The durability of your stone patio depends on the type of stones you use. Granite is extremely hard and can last decades, while sandstone tends to be more susceptible to wear and tear because they are softer. Most stone pavers are weather-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about them cracking under extreme weather conditions.
3. Sustainable
Because stone is naturally occurring, it’s often a more sustainable choice. Locally sourced stones reduce emissions because it takes fewer resources to transport them to your home. When you no longer need them, stone pavers are fully recyclable. They can be transformed into new materials, making them a more sustainable choice.
4. Safety
Stone pavers often have textured surfaces, making them naturally more slip-resistant than other surfaces. This texture provides added traction on wet and icy surfaces to prevent accidental falls. Stone pavers can add enhanced safety to your outdoor spaces.
Which are Better – Concrete or Stone Pavers?
There’s no definitive way to say which is better for your outdoor patio. It’s a personal choice that you and your contractor will make based on various factors, including:
- Budget: Concrete pavers are often more affordable to buy and install. Look up hardscaping materials for sale to get a sense of their cost and avoid sticker shock.
- Look: Stone pavers can be more unique due to the natural variations in the bricks, while concrete pavers can look more polished due to their uniform nature.
- Value: Stone pavers are more eco-friendly and can increase your property value if you plan on selling your home soon.
Both concrete and stone pavers will be durable and attractive additions to any backyard space.
Conclusion
Your pavers will set the tone for your outdoor spaces, and they are just the beginning of your outdoor decorating journey. You’ll need to pick furniture, outdoor appliances, and additional decorations to help finish the job. Whether you’re looking to transform your backyard into a rustic oasis or a polished extension of your home, you can’t go wrong with pavers as your foundation.
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