This article will give you a side by side comparison of stamped concrete vs Pavers landscaping. We’ll let you decide which is better for your patio, pool patio or walkway.
Comparison of Stamped Concrete vs Pavers Landscaping
Stamped Concrete
comparison of stamped concrete vs Pavers Landscaping
Advantages:
- A wide variety of patterns and colors are available.
- Can imitate natural stone or segmented paving.
- Colors can be hand blended on site in addition to the color that’s added to the concrete mix.
- A sealer is usually added to protect the concrete from the elements and pool chemicals.
- Colored and Stamped Concrete are more economical to install.
Disadvantages:
- Initial cost is somewhat high. Cost of repairs and ongoing maintenance can get very expensive.
- Difficult for a DIYer to install, and it may require a professional installer.
- Control joints and saw cuts are necessary to help control where the concrete cracks. They are sometimes made across the stamped pattern lines.
- There is the possibility for deterioration from de-icing salts.
- Repairs require patching – color matching of the new concrete to the old is almost impossible.
- The sealer needs to be reapplied every 2-3 years.
- Colors may fade over time.
Interlocking Concrete Pavers
Interlocking Concrete Pavers
Advantages:
- They won’t crack – when installed correctly.
- Pavers cost about the same as stamped concrete – depending on the application.
- The cost efficiency over time is very low. They do not need to be replaced.
- Repairs are easy and seamless.
- Paver patterns and colors can be mixed and matched to create striking designs with accent borders and bindings.
Disadvantages:
- Joint sand needs to be “topped off” every couple of years unless a polymer sand is used. Polymer sand is a sand that has a polymeric additive in it that binds and hardens the sand grains to each other and the pavers too.
- Weeds can grow between the pavers unless a polymer sand is used. When the polymer hardens, weeds cannot grow in it.
- Dye lots can vary from pallet to pallet – so if care is not taken when installing, a large area can appear blotchy. A skilled installer will know how to blend the pavers to eliminate this issue.
- Pavers can settle and move over time if they are not installed properly. Here in Nebraska, we have to ensure that everything – the existing soil, the base material we bring in, the pavers after they’re installed… – is compacted properly or the pavers will heave unevenly with the frost.
As you can see, there are pros and cons to both stamped concrete and interlocking concrete pavers. If you are interested in either and are looking for a FREE Estimate give us a call by clicking here: Arbor Hills Trees & Landscaping Omaha