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. 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. It is known that concrete is cheaper than pavers. However, if you add color staining and printing, the cost starts to increase rapidly to be comparable to that of cobblestones. Paving stones are considered more difficult to install than concrete because a concrete slab is poured in, while pavers must be placed individually by hand.
Stamped concrete is also easy to maintain and only needs to be rinsed and washed with dish soap and a scrub brush. Similarly, the classic and simple design of a cobblestone driveway can offer more value than a stained and stamped concrete driveway that doesn't blend in with the rest of the house's exterior. Paving stones offer much more design options than concrete and have a more attractive and durable finish. Concrete slabs are more likely to split and crack, especially if the ground beneath them shifts.
As you can see above in the image of the sidewalk, the concrete splinters and someone tried to put it back together. Although current techniques allow concrete to be stamped to look like cobblestone, the added cost of this process means that the final price is very similar to that of installing real pavers. Paving stones have the longest lifespan of up to 100 years, concrete lasts 25 to 30 years, and asphalt lasts 15 to 20 years if properly maintained. One of the most significant disadvantages of stamped concrete is that it can be quite difficult to repair or replace.
Paving stones are usually more visually appealing than concrete slabs 1 because you can manipulate pavers and create designs, and they come in a variety of colors. This makes it a popular choice for garden design, but homeowners do not always prefer the appearance of smooth poured concrete. The resale value of pavers is higher than that of concrete due to their better appearance and the longevity of pavers. Protective sealants can be added to concrete to help block stains, but this sealant must be reapplied regularly to keep working.
Since the concrete design is created on the property, you can have the last word on the color and design you want. Concrete is a solid choice for any home, but pavers will offer the best long-term value if you can afford the initial cost.
