As a homeowner, you always want to keep your house presentable. After all, having a well-designed home leaves a great lasting impression on other people and adds to the property’s resale value in the long run. Every part of the house contributes to these factors so you have to make wise decisions when remodelling or renovating and that also includes your pavement outside.
Outdoor pavement may not be at the forefront of the homeowner’s mind when designing their house but it should also be considered since it is the first thing people see when they arrive or pass by. When renovating your outdoor space, there are two commonly used materials you can use. — concrete or pavers. These two materials are ideal for sprucing up your outdoors and it’s completely up to you which you think will fit with your house design and your needs. So how do you choose which one is the better option?
Before we get into their key differences, let’s define what is concrete and what are pavers first.
What is Concrete?
Concrete is the most commonly used material in construction. It is made up of cement, water, and aggregate (sand and gravel) which makes a sturdy mixture that is perfect for supporting a lot of weight and is resistant to wear. Concrete is usually poured into a form when installed and can take up to several days for it to dry completely.
What are Pavers?
Pavers can be made out of stone, brick, tile, or concrete and are commonly used in driveways or walkways outside the house. They can be arranged in different patterns according to your homeowner’s preference, creating a unique appearance for your home. Paver tiles or stones are laid individually by hand so you will need a professional to ensure that they are properly installed.
Now that you know the basics, let’s discuss their differences when it comes to different factors that you need to consider.
Pavers Vs Concrete
Cost
Overall, concrete comes on top when it comes to material, installation/labour costs and maintenance costs. The initial installation costs are cheaper because the actual material cost is cheaper than pavers in addition to the installation cost since the installation process is simpler and much less labour and time-consuming compared to pavers. Short-term and long-term maintenance costs are also in favour of concrete because of is easier to upkeep. You can DIY the installation of pavers to save on costs but unless you’re knowledgeable and know how to properly install the pavers, you’re better off hiring a professional.
Durability & Maintenance
Both concrete and pavers can be durable pavement solutions as long as they’re installed properly and properly maintained.
Concrete is perhaps as low maintenance as it comes. It is also easy to clean even with just a broom to keep it free from dust, dirt, and stains. To lengthen the lifespan of concrete, homeowners are usually advised to seal it every 3-5 years. For a more detailed guide on maintaining concrete surfaces, refer to our post on how to care for concrete.
Over time concrete can crack or split, especially when it is exposed to constant extreme temperatures, subjected to very loads from machinery or heavy vehicles, and through rainwater runoff eroding the ground underneath the slab. However, a well-installed and well-maintained concrete surface can last up to 30+ years.
Pavers on the other hand, if maintained properly, can last up to 100 years which is more than triple of a concrete’s lifespan. They are more durable over the decades compared to concrete slabs which makes them a better option if you are looking for less costs over a longer period.
Pavers generally don’t crack or split but each stone or tile can loosen over time. However, if pavers loosen, you may need to sand which is poured between the paver gaps. Another thing you need to look out for when getting pavers are the weeds. Weeds can grow between the pavers so you have to remove them or spray them with a weed killer regularly to avoid shifting and keep the pavement looking visually appealing.
Appearance
Concrete offers various colours, styles and textures. For example, there’s an option to use stamped concrete which has a decorative surface if you want to add some texture to your driveway or other outdoor surfaces. On the other hand, pavers are the go-to option for homeowners who want to liven up their outdoor appearance because of their endless range of design ideas. Pavers come in different sizes, colours, and shapes which you can match to the aesthetics of your own home. If you want some uniqueness to your property, pavers are the more versatile option.
Resale Value
As mentioned before, having a well-designed home adds to the property’s resale value if you are looking to sell your house in the future. When it comes to this factor, your best bet is to go with pavers because they attract more buyers due to their unique appearance. Concrete (and even stamped concrete) doesn’t add much to the resale value since it is already a common sight in most homes.
So Which is Better for Your Home?
Concrete and pavers have different benefits and drawbacks for homeowners. The decision will ultimately be up to you, depending on your budget and preferences. If you are on a budget and looking to complete the outdoor look in no time, concrete is the better option for you. It’s cheaper and easier to install than pavers. But if you want your house to stand out and money is not an issue, pavers are the best option. Every homeowner’s needs differ. One option may not be for you but is perfect for another. Whichever you choose, you should consider the overall functional and visual effect as well as the maintenance and budgetary demands. If you want more personalised advice and expert services, it’s better to consult with a professional concreter so you can determine what’s best for your circumstances.
