Concrete Vs. Paving Stones

The decision between concrete and pavers can be very difficult, as both have their distinct advantages and disadvantages. Once you evaluate your needs and goals for your patio, poolside, walkway, or driveway project, you will quickly come to a conclusion on which product suits your needs best. Poured concrete in generally installed in large solid blocks, and gives the installer an opportunity to change the stain, stamp style, and texture to a desired state. Pavers on the other hand, are interlocking pieces of concrete that are laid independently. This allows them to be flexible, and easily placed in terms of architectural design.

Poured concrete is a great style for patios, pool sides, walkways, and driveways, as it is relatively inexpensive, and has very low maintenance associated with it. One key aspect to consider when compared to pavers is that there are no gaps or spaces in poured concrete, allowing no space for weeds moss, or grass to grow. On the other hand, the space between pavers allows owners to grow plants, and add a degree of nature to your outdoor space. The spaces between pavers also allow for a more flexible surface, that lets water penetrate, avoiding the creation of runoff.

Another main difference relates to the product’s flexibility, in terms of erosion, earthquakes, and seasonal changes. As you know, concrete is a completely flat surface, which poses little risk in tripping over cracks or edges. With this being said, the risk of cracking is very high during earthquakes or large changes in humidity or temperature.

Pavers on the other hand, are laid individually, which sometimes creates an uneven surface, but allows them to be very durable in earthquakes or changes in humidity and temperature.As you can see, it is a very difficult decision between these two products. Luckily, there is an intermediary between the two materials; Stamped Concrete. This is still a continuous piece of poured concrete, but a per-determined design is pressed into the slab during the drying process. When installed correctly, this material is durable and long lasting.

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