When it comes to patio pavers the most common options you will come across are concrete, stone, or porcelain pavers. All of them have the best features for any household. You can choose either of them but not every paving solution is perfect. They do have their pros and cons. When selecting, consider every benefit and drawback of each option so you can make a wise choice. If you are also stuck among concrete, stone, or porcelain then this blog post is what you need. We have compared these stone paving solutions so you can decide what will suit you most. Continue reading the following for more ideas.
Comparing the Concrete, Stone, or Porcelain Patio Pavers
Before we start a detailed assessment, here is a table comparing all three stone paving options. The comparison is based on the major factors including:
| Feature | Concrete Pavers | Natural Stone Pavers | Porcelain Pavers |
| Durability | Good, but prone to cracking | Excellent, very durable | Highly durable, scratch-resistant |
| Maintenance | Requires periodic sealing | Low, depending on the type | Low, easy-to-clean |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Uniform, modern look | Natural and unique variations | Sleek, modern, versatile |
| Cost | Budget-friendly | Higher than concrete | Moderate to high |
| Slip Resistance | Moderate | High | High |
| Weather Resistance | Can crack in extreme temperatures | Resistant to most conditions | Highly resistant |
| Installation Complexity | Moderate | High | Moderate to high |
1- Concrete Pavers
Concrete patio paver is a common stone paving option for most homeowners. They are also made of recycled material. Concrete paver is a durable choice for backyard and patio pavers. Also, they come at a low price so if you are on a low budget consider these pavers.
Pros:
- Concrete pavers for the backyard are a budget-friendly choice.
- They are aesthetically versatile. They can be found in a wide range of designs, colors, textures, and patterns.
- These pavers are easy to install as they are lightweight.
Cons:
- Concrete paving slabs require regular sealing to secure themselves from damage.
- If there is a heavy load or they face harsh weather conditions, they can be cracked.
- Concrete patio pavers may lose their colors under direct exposure to the sun for a long time.
For light to moderate use, concrete pavers are great for patios, gardens, and large patio stones.
2- Natural Stone Pavers
Natural stone paving is another popular choice for patio pavers. They are extracted from the earth so they have a natural beauty. One of the major features of natural stone pavers is their durability. If they are installed properly they can last for decades.
Pros
- They are durable options for patios. Regular maintenance can help them last longer.
- They offer a unique natural beauty that is hard to match. Each pavers is unique so you can enjoy a custom look.
- Natural stone patio pavers are an eco-friendly option as they are directly extracted from the earth. They can also be recycled.
Cons
- Natural stone patio pavers are more on an expansive side. Choose only if you want to create a natural luxurious look.
- Professional precision is required to install these pavers. They are heavy and thick which is why a DIY installation approach is not recommended.
- Regular maintenance is required such as sealing for limestone pavers and travertine.
If you are going to spend significantly more to create an elegant and luxurious look then natural stone pavers are great.
3- Porcelain Pavers
Porcelain pavers are one of the most popular patio paver options. They are made of synthetic material but crafted with high-quality natural residue. These paving stones are the most durable, scratch and weather-resistant. Also, there is practically an infinite range to choose from. So you will never run out of these patio stones and pavers.
Pros
- Outdoor Porcelain patio pavers are the most durable stone paving option for most residential and commercial projects.
- They are the most aesthetically versatile pavers for landscaping. These patio pavers can be crafted to mimic the natural stone look.
- Porcelain offers a smooth, minimalist, and low-maintenance surface. It is weather, crack, scratch, and stain-resistant.
Cons
- It Lacks authenticity as it doesn’t have a unique look that defines porcelain like natural paver stone.
- Requires professional installation as it is thick and heavy.
Which Pavers Is Right For Your Home?
Now you will have an idea about these pavers and where they stand out. However, what would be the best for you depends on several factors such as:
Purpose and Usage:
Think about what would be the purpose and usage of the space. Patios are used for relaxation and leisure time. However, if you are going to use it more often, there will be heavy foot traffic, and will be exposed to the sun then porcelain patio pavers are a great choice. Natural stone pavers can work as well but they may require regular sealing after every season.
Climate
Consider your climate to determine your desired material. If you are living in a harsh weather condition then opt for durability. Porcelain and natural stone are the perfect choice for areas with freezing temperatures.
Aesthetics
If you prefer aesthetics then make sure to check the overall construction of your house. If you prefer a more natural appearance then opt for natural stone. However, you can create a custom look with porcelain pavers as they are aesthetically versatile.
Budget
Budget is another factor to consider in the right material. Concrete pavers are a budget-friendly option for most homeowners looking for patio pavers for sale. Porcelain is comparatively more expensive than concrete but they are much cheaper options than natural stone. Assess your budget and then determine what suits you most.
Maintenance
Each material comes with its own ambiance requirements. You should determine how much time you can spend on maintaining the large patio stones. Concrete is relatively low maintenance while porcelain has even lower maintenance requirements. However, concrete may require sealing depending on its usage and so is the porcelain. Also, sweeping dust every day is crucial for natural stone. As accumulated dust may dull the patio stones and pavers.
Tips for Choosing and Installing Patio Pavers
When you are looking for a stone near me or paving stone for sale then make sure to prefer the stone paver suppliers. They can assure you of timely delivery. Just check their reputation before contacting them.
Plan your layout to get the most out of your patio pavers. Such as a mix of small and large paver stones can create a visual interest.
Always look for the pavers which will be durable. The durability will assure you that you have made a long-term investment in your patio pavers. Even if they are expensive, get them.
Professional installation is a must. As they will be precise, and equipped with the right skills and knowledge. They can handle all types of paver installation. Read also our guide on how to install patio stones.
Bottom Line
When you are choosing paver stones then make sure to consider every option’s pros and cons. Concrete, porcelain, and stone pavers are good choices as paving materials. However, you should choose only those which you believe suit you most. Consider each factor from climate, and budget to aesthetics, and everything. There is not a definite answer regarding which pavers are best but you can choose by doing a balance assessment.
FAQs
What tools do I need to lay pavers?
To lay pavers you need the following tools:
- Shovel
- Rake
- String line
- Tape measure
- Level
- Ruber mullet
- Wheelbarrow
- Stakes
- Trowel
- Broom
Additional materials include sand, gravel, and edging restraints.
Patio paver installation cost estimate
The paver installation cost may range between 10$ to 25$ per square foot. This includes the cost of materials and labor. Prices difference is based on types of pavers, regional labor rates, and the complexity of designs.
What is the best paver to use for a patio?
Concrete, porcelain and natural stone pavers such as travertine, limestone, bluestone, and marble pavers are some of the most preferred choices as patio pavers. However, different factors determine what type of pavers will suit your patio pavers.
How much should a 12×12 paver patio cost?
A 12×12 patio (144 square feet) will generally cost around $1,500 to $3,600. However, the average cost usually depends on the paver types and labor costs in your area.
What is the best size pavers for a patio?
Large-format patio stone spacers are perfect for modern patios. SIzes such as 16×16, 24×24 to 48×48 an ideal choices to create a seamless and unified look. However, you can choose a custom size according to your aesthetic preference.