In terms of installation costs and concrete costs, poured concrete is technically the most affordable per square foot. However, although the initial cost of pavers is higher, concrete pavers offer greater value and durability than cast concrete and stamped concrete. Concrete is less expensive than pavers, both in terms of materials and the price of labor. The cost of a ticket varies considerably depending on the size, the gradient, the amount of excavation required, whether a new inlet is installed or an existing one is replaced, and more.
The same goes for the cost of installing patios and walkways. A basic concrete installation with a smooth finish will always be cheaper than that of pavers because the installation is quick and does not require much labor. However, stamped concrete stained to look like natural stone can match or exceed the cost of pavers. In these cases, pavers may be cheaper than concrete.
Paving stones have a higher resale value because of their beauty and versatility. Concrete slabs are generally more common, but over time, pavers will generate more value because it is expensive to replace concrete. In terms of initial cost, cast and stamped concrete tends to be the most economical option. Concrete is quite inexpensive and can cover a large plot of land quite quickly.
While concrete isn't as abundant when it comes to designs and colors, you can choose patterned or decorative concrete, which gives it a beautiful appearance. Stamped concrete cannot withstand too much pressure, so pressure washing must be handled with extreme care around it. One of the biggest concerns of concrete and pavers is weeds, as they tend to grow between cracks and pavers. As a result, it's common to find concrete as one of the main building materials on a construction site.
Occasionally, a concrete slab is stamped while still wet with a pattern similar to a tile and is called stamped concrete. However, pavers are even stronger than concrete and can support more weight on their surface before a crack occurs. Make sure the concrete is cleaned regularly with a broom to ensure that dirt, grime, or stains do not become permanent. Poured concrete slabs are often used for outdoor residential spaces because of their cost and ease of installation.
Stamped concrete can be designed to obtain a smoother and more uniform pattern, which is good for accessibility for the disabled. Similarly, the initial cost of a concrete patio may be lower than that of a cobblestone patio, but the material could show more wear and tear if you're always entertained by it. Concrete slabs for patios, driveways, or other spaces are not as durable as pavers and can crack, stain, and move over time. Over time, UV rays and other elements can attenuate the appearance of concrete and pavers, so sealants help protect them from fading.
Most builders recommend stamped and cast concrete for wheelchair-accessible spaces, as it creates a more even surface. Paving stones come in a wide range of shapes, textures, patterns and colors, making them generally more visually appealing than concrete slabs.
