Hal Major © 2009
BobVilaContractors.com
You want to add a decorative touch to your driveway or maybe create a patio but you�re not sure what material to use. If paving stones (pavers) and stamped concrete are included in your options, we give you the pros and cons of each.
Paving Stones
Paving stones have become exceeding popular in the past ten years. I venture to say that every home improvement center, garden center, all-purpose hardware store, big box store and an occasional gas station has paving stones. Paving stones, also called pavers, are the second hardest paving material available. Only actual brick rivals them. Pavers are manufactured from a special concrete formula that is poured and pressed into molds at the paver factory.
Pros:
Paving stones are usually cheaper per square foot than stamped concrete. I say usually because a lot depends on the size and decorative amenities of the particular paver you get. The cost quoted by contractors to install stamped concrete varies tremendously.
Easy to replace an individual paving stone if it breaks or cracks.
No long-run cracks or gaps in the surface, as it is made up from individual pavers.
Laying paving stones is definitely a do-it-yourself project.
Cons:
Limited styles and colors are available compared to stamped concrete.
Can�t be customized for a logo, family name or initials.
Replacements in the same color or pattern may not be available in the future. If the pattern you use doesn�t sell well enough, the company stops making it. Some annual maintenance required to refill the space between the pavers with sand.
The weeds can take over rapidly if not kept under control. The weeds germinate in the spaces between the paving stones.
Stamped Concrete
Stamped concrete is regular concrete that is available in your part of the country. The concrete is tinted to achieve the color you want. During the drying stage, a pre-made concrete stamp is applied to form the pattern. The concrete then cures with the pattern permanently stamped into it.
Pros:
Uniform and level surface that is achieved with any poured concrete.
Unlimited colors available. Tints can be mixed to achieve the desired color.
Custom patterns, logos, names are available from most contractors.
The job can be completed quicker than laying individual stones.
Surface is smoother making cleaning and snow removal easier.
Cons:
Poured concrete is slightly higher priced than paving stones. You may also have to pay delivery costs for the concrete truck.
All concrete is subject to cracking and stone popping; (when a piece of gravel at the surface pops through because of freezing and thawing in cold climates).
It is difficult to match a repair to the original color and pattern. Always ask the contractor to leave you some of the concrete tint. However, weathering of the original surface can make repair matching difficult.
If the repairs are frequent and unsightly, complete removal and replacing may become necessary.
Always consult a knowledgeable and reputable contractor before starting a paving project.
