Cost comparison Concrete has a significantly lower cost compared to pavers. In terms of cost, concrete slabs are generally less expensive up front, but may incur more costs over time, as they must be repaired or replaced. Both stamped concrete and pavers have a higher initial cost than slab concrete. Stamped concrete can have problems similar to plate concrete in terms of stains or cracks, which can lead to higher costs over time.
Paving stones, which are often the same price as stamped concrete, are easier to repair or replace if damaged over time. 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.
It is known that concrete is cheaper than pavers. However, if you add color staining and embossing, the cost starts to increase rapidly to be comparable to that of cobblestones. 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.
There is usually one main driving force in the material that is chosen and that is the cost. As we mentioned, concrete is the least expensive option, pavers are one step ahead of an average price, and natural stone is the most expensive. We've worked with homeowners who were on a limited budget, but who actually preferred pavers or natural stone to poured concrete. Instead of compromising the material, we reduced the square footage of the patio and that has been an adequate solution to keep costs at bay.
Consider using pavers, if not permeable, if you're concerned about water drainage for your project. The resale value of pavers is higher than that of concrete due to their better appearance and the longevity of pavers. 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. A poured concrete patio is a versatile option, as it can be formed into any size or shape to fit your garden.
However, specific designs have some clear benefits when weighing options between stamped concrete and elements such as humidity and temperature often cause concrete to expand and contract, causing cracks. The installation and labor costs of stamped and poured concrete are also quite low compared to other options. Under the same conditions, even if properly maintained, concrete patios can normally begin to crack within 12 hours after the finishing process. A new walkway leading to the front door, a new patio in the backyard or a new driveway must solve a practical and visual need.
Whether you use cement pavers or want to pave stone entrances, pavers and stones are usually stronger than concrete and can support more weight on the surface before a crack appears. Although technically, installing concrete pavers costs more money than pouring concrete slabs, the truth is that poured concrete slabs generally have higher costs when you consider the repairs they require throughout their lifespan. Poured concrete slabs crack when invasive tree roots, freeze-thaw cycles, and other disturbances occur in the ground below. Paving stones come in a wide range of shapes, textures, patterns and colors, making them generally more visually appealing than concrete slabs.
Concrete layers can add cement dye to create the desired look, such as a more natural look of stone or marble. 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. .
