Choosing Pavers or Concrete For a Backyard Patio

There are several situations in the landscaping world where you’ll have multiple robust choices in terms of material for a given project, and a backyard patio area is a great example. Two materials that are often used in these areas, and often compared to one another for this purpose, are pavers and concrete products.

At Wright Landscaping, as the top landscaping company in Salt Lake City, Layton and Kaysville areas, we’re here to help with a huge range of commercial and residential landscaping projects, including patios and numerous other areas. Our landscapers are experts in all the common materials used for landscapes today, including both pavers and concrete. Here’s a primer on how these basic products compare and differ, plus a look at some areas where one or the other holds the advantage for use in your backyard patio design.

Defining Pavers and Concrete

Firstly, because we know that some people don’t even realize that pavers and concrete refer to different things in the landscaping world, let’s take a look at each one. Pavers are a type of precast product often made from materials like stone, brick or clay, which are often used for exterior flooring applications, such as patios and driveways. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, providing great flexibility in design. One key factoid here is that pavers come as individual pieces that fit together, unlike a solid concrete surface.

On the other hand, concrete is a mixture of cement, water, sand, and gravel or crushed stone that hardens over time to form a solid surface. It can be poured into any shape or size desired and can also be colored or stamped for added visual appeal. It is poured into a single durable slab, rather than coming in individual pieces.

Which of these products will be best for your backyard patio? The answer depends on several factors, which we’ll run through in our subsequent sections.

Durability and Maintenance

One of the main differences between pavers and concrete is their durability and maintenance requirements. Concrete tends to crack over time due to changes in temperature and settling of the ground beneath it. This can be avoided by using a thick slab of concrete and adding reinforcement, but even then, some cracking may occur.

Pavers, on the other hand, are more flexible and less likely to crack. They also have the added benefit of being able to shift with the ground if any settling occurs. Additionally, pavers are easy to replace if one or a few become damaged over time. Concrete requires more extensive repairs in these situations.

Maintenance-wise, both pavers and concrete require occasional cleaning and sealing to maintain their appearance. However, due to its individual piece nature, pavers may require more regular maintenance as weeds or grass can grow between them if not properly maintained.

Up-Front Price

When it comes to the up-front price of installation, concrete tends to hold the advantage. It is a more affordable option compared to pavers, which require precise placement and often take longer to install. However, in the long run, pavers may be a more cost-effective option because of their durability and ability to be easily replaced if damaged.

Design Options

As mentioned earlier, pavers come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes, making them an excellent choice for those looking for a unique design. They can be arranged in intricate patterns or used to create different zones within a patio area. Concrete can also be stamped or colored for added visual appeal but may not offer as much flexibility in design options.

Installation Ease

Because pavers must be individually placed and leveled, they can take longer to install compared to concrete. However, this also means that they can be installed in stages, making it easier for those on a budget or with limited time.

Concrete, on the other hand, can be poured in a single day, but the area must remain undisturbed for several days as it cures. This may be an inconvenience for those who need to use their patio right away.

Repairs

Finally, in any situation where repairs are needed, pavers are typically the easier option. As mentioned earlier, individual pavers can be easily replaced if damaged, while concrete may require more extensive repairs.

Both pavers and concrete have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to use in a backyard patio area. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your specific needs and priorities. At Wright Landscaping, we are here to help you make this decision and provide expert installation for whichever material you choose. Contact us today for all your landscaping needs around SLC, Layton, Kaysville or nearby areas!