Spring is here in Jefferson County and outdoor home improvement projects are heating up. If you are planning a new patio or walkway for your yard, you may be wondering which is better for your project, concrete or pavers? The answer, as always, is that it depends on your end goals.
When you plan to build a new patio, walkway, steps, or retaining wall, you probably think of the many benefits that a beautiful outdoor space will have on your home's curb appeal. You'll also be able to spend more time in the beautiful Missouri summers and falls, and add an extra living space that is efficiently designed to maximize both its practical and its aesthetic benefits. However, there's a right way and a wrong way to build every project, and this is especially true when it comes to patios and walkways. Before you choose between concrete or pavers, make sure you understand their differences and the pros and cons of each.
What is Concrete?
Simply put, concrete is made up of cement and aggregate - two substances that, when combined, form a hard, durable substance. The aggregate is material found in soil and is usually made up of crushed rocks, sand and gravel.
Concrete is traditionally used in the construction of foundations, walls, driveways, and other large surfaces. However, because of the strength, durability, and customization options now available, concrete is becoming increasingly popular for smaller home improvements like patios, walkways, and swimming pool decks
What are Pavers?
The term paver generally describes the different materials that are placed side by side to make patios or walkways. Common materials used for paver surfaces include brick, stone, cinderblock, flagstone and asphalt. While paver options are very durable and long-lasting, they can also be quite expensive. In addition, unless the proper sub-base is laid under the pavers, weeds, grass and other landscaping can creep between the brick or stone.
Pavers are typically laid out in a rectangular or square pattern. The sub-base is where the majority of the durability and stability of the walkway or patio comes from, so the most stable and long-lasting paver projects have a concrete sub-base that will not wash away in the rain or crumble beneath your feet.
Concrete or Pavers: Which Is Right For My Patio?
When deciding between concrete or pavers for your project, you will first need to determine the reason why you are building the surface in the first place, and what you plan to do with the surface once complete. Are you looking for a durable, long-lasting surface that will last for many years? Will you have patio furniture on the surface that will rock with uneven surfaces? Asking yourself questions like these will ensure you are installing the right material for your project.
If you want a really durable surface, concrete is a great choice. Concrete is a hardening agent that will stay solid for years without chipping, cracking or fading. Concrete is also ideally suited to withstand the elements, so you won't have to worry about it washing away when it rains, or weeds poking thru the cracks.
On the other hand, if you prefer the design esthetic that comes with pavers, just be sure to take into account the extra installation costs (laying out a surface paver by paver, leveling as you go, is very labor-intensive), and landscaping maintenance to keep weeds and grass from cropping up between the pavers.
Pro Tip: If you want the best of both worlds, explore the options available in stamped concrete.
Read our last blog post here: What is Stamped Concrete?
Concrete or Pavers: The Clear Choice
For many homeowners in Missouri, the choice between concrete or pavers is a no-brainer. Concrete provides stability and affordability that is hard to compete with. If you have questions or would like a free quote for ready-mix concrete delivery, call or visit one of our three Jefferson County locations. We are happy to help homeowners find the best solution for their honey-do list.