When choosing materials for your outdoor hardscaping for your driveway, pool deck or patio, there are two main choices: poured concrete and concrete pavers. In today’s blog post, we’ll help you analyze the differences between these two options, their pros and cons, and help you identify which choice is right for you. Stay tuned to our blog on our website for more information on customizing your outdoor space.
Pavers vs. Poured Concrete…What’s the Difference? – While both options are made of concrete, they do have their differences. Poured concrete patios, for example, are poured as wet concrete at the site as a single slab. Stamped designs can be added while the concrete is still wet. Pavers are created offsite and brought to the home in pieces. Interlocking pavers are more heavy-duty and can be used for driveways, while architectural pavers are ideal for landscaping, patios, and even indoor use.
The Customizable Option – Homeowners are offered a wide variety of customization with both these choices. Both can be colored. If you’re looking to add stamped designs, poured concrete is the better bet. Concrete pavers, on the other hand, can come in a wide variety of shapes to decorate your pathways.
What about Price? – If you’re looking at installation and upfront costs, poured concrete is the better option. However, you could make the argument that concrete pavers might pay off as a better long-term investment. The reason why is because a solid poured concrete slab offers little flexibility as far as ground changes and disruption goes. If there’s a shift, it can cause a crack that could be hard to repair. Pavers are more resistant to freeze/thaw changes and can easily shift with a changing soil. They’re also easier to purchase one at a time without having to replace the whole slab. For more information on residential concrete, view some of our residential work on our website.
Whether you choose to go with concrete pavers or poured concrete for your outdoor oasis, Tolley Concrete can help you make both options shine. Visit our website to get a free quote here.