So it's time to revamp your current driveway, walkway, or patio, and you're considering paverstones instead of the traditional concrete. But what's the price difference? or different aesthetic options? or is it even worth the switch to begin with? All valid, these are the questions people have when it comes to their home project. And hopefully, West Hills Masonry can help answer some of those big questions for you.
While concrete and pavers are both durable and strong materials, there are fundamental differences everyone ought to know. Concrete is susceptible to cracks and staining, leaving an eyesore to your home. Concrete slabs will also most likely crack and become damage under the stress of the ground itself, which is definitely relevant for us Southern Californians and our earthquake climate. It is, however, a slightly cheaper option at first; concrete is typically a little cheaper overall when materials and labor are all considered. Maintenance of concrete is a different story though. There is no quick and easy fix for concrete, and it's certainly not cost effective in the long-term.
Pavers on the other hand require very easy maintenance. In fact, it hardly needs any maintenance at all, lasting for many many years to come. If any part of your paver driveway, walkway, or patio shifts or cracks, the individual paverstone simply needs to be replaced, unlike concrete which does not have this convenient economic option. So in the long-term, pavers are more cost-effective.
Moreover, the differences in concrete and paver aesthetics is quite drastic as well. Concrete can come in different color combinations, stamping, and design, varying greatly in cost. Paverstone also comes in different colors, shapes, and design patterns but are largely similar in cost. Unlike concrete, pavers vary greatly in composition, but mostly function in the same way. Lastly, many people tend to find pavers more attractive in appearance, claiming it adds an easy facelift to their home that adds instant value.
Be that as it may, given the growing alternatives in concrete, there are many options that add a certain unique feel to any home as well. But many gravitate to paver options for its long-term cost savings, safety in its non-skid and non-slip surface, aesthetic value, and versatility to any home project compared to traditional concrete.