Which Is Cheaper Concrete Or Backyard Pavers?

What Are Backyard Pavers?

Backyard pavers are paving stones that are used to create patios, walkways, and other outdoor living spaces. Pavers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and can be used to create patterns or designs. Like concrete slabs, pavers are strong and durable but can also crack if not properly maintained.

What Are Concrete Slabs?

A concrete slab is a flat, horizontal surface made of poured concrete. Concrete slabs are used to support everything from patios and driveways to roads and bridges. They are strong and durable, but they can crack if not properly maintained.

Which Is Cheaper?

When it comes to making decisions about your home’s landscaping, there are a lot of factors to consider. But one of the most important is always going to cost. After all, you want to make sure that you’re getting the most bang for your buck – and that usually means finding ways to save money.

So, when it comes to choosing between concrete and pavers for your patio or walkway, which is cheaper? Let’s take a look at the costs associated with each option so you can make an informed decision.

• Concrete Costs

The cost of concrete will vary depending on the amount you need, as well as the quality of the concrete itself. In general, though, you can expect to pay between $6 and $10 per square foot for concrete.

The cost to repair concrete slabs can vary greatly, depending on the severity of the damage. 

Surface cracks are typically one of the less expensive types of repairs that need to be made. Repair costs are often very expensive, sometimes reaching over $1000. The main reason for this is that you have to replace the entire concrete flooring, which requires buying new cement and other materials.

• Pavers Costs

Pavers are typically more expensive than concrete, with most homeowners paying between $10 and $20 per square foot.  One of the key benefits of pavers is that if a paver becomes damaged, you can replace it without issue. Furthermore, pavers are much more durable than concrete and most contractors will offer guarantees for any damage that might occur.

So, Which Is Cheaper?

In general, concrete is going to be the cheaper option upfront. However, pavers may be a better investment in the long run since they’re more durable and have a longer lifespan. Pavers add value to your property both aesthetically and economically. When installed properly, pavers can give you an ROI of up to 75%.

If you’re still not sure which is right for you, talk to a landscaping professional. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option so you can make the best decision for your home.

Which Is Better?

There is no clear answer as to which option is better. It depends on the specific needs of the homeowner. Concrete slabs are a great choice for those who want a durable surface that is easy to maintain. Backyard pavers are a good choice for those who want a more decorative surface that can be customized to their liking.

Are Pavers a Worthwhile Investment?

There's no denying that pavers can be a bit of an investment. They typically cost significantly more than concrete, and the installation process can be fairly involved. However, many homeowners feel that pavers are worth the extra expense for several reasons.

• Pavers offer a much more attractive finished product than concrete does.

Pavers come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, so you can get creative with your design. And because they're individual pieces, pavers can be laid in patterns or even used to create mosaics.

Concrete, on the other hand, is generally relegated to one color and one finish. Sure, you could add a stamped pattern or some staining, but you're still limited in terms of design. If you want something truly unique and eye-catching, pavers are the way to go.

• Pavers are much more durable than concrete.

Pavers are made from hardened clay or stone, so they're able to withstand a lot of wear and tear. They're also less likely to crack or chip than concrete is. If one paver does become damaged, it's easy to replace just that one piece without having to redo the entire patio or walkway. With concrete, on the other hand, even a small crack can mean big problems down the road.

• Pavers are also very low-maintenance.

Once they're installed, all you need to do is sweep them off and hose them down occasionally. Concrete, on the other hand, can be very difficult to keep clean. Stains are notoriously difficult to remove, and concrete is also susceptible to mold and mildew growth.

So, if you're looking for a patio or walkway surface that's easy to care for, pavers are the way to go. Of course, pavers aren't perfect. One downside is that they can be a bit slippery when wet. If you live in an area with a lot of rain or snowfall, you might want to consider using concrete instead. Another thing to keep in mind is that pavers need to be installed correctly the first time around. If they're not, you'll end up with an uneven surface that can be very difficult to fix.

So, if you decide to go with pavers, be sure to hire a reputable contractor who has experience installing them.

The Bottom Line

Pavers are a great choice for many homeowners. They offer a beautiful, unique finished product that's also very durable and low-maintenance. Just keep in mind that they can be a bit of an investment, and be sure to hire a qualified professional for the installation.