Concrete vs Pavers: What’s the Difference?

Driveway pavers vs concrete slabs are a simple do-it-yourself (DIY) home improvement project that boosts your home’s curb appeal, and value. You may wonder which material is best so, a comparison of driveway pavers vs concrete may help. Remember that your driveway takes up a large space in the front outdoor area, but there are other places where you can use pavers, or concrete to enhance your home. 

Does your old driveway need a facelift? Are you creating a completely new driveway or pathway? What is cheaper – poured concrete or pavers? If you have these questions about the differences between a paver driveway, and a concrete patio, take a look at this simple guide for today’s most popular DIY driveway materials. No matter what you choose, a new pathway can refresh the look of your home in any way you like. 

Here are just a few of the most popular options for DIY driveway materials to choose from (for pathways of driveway pavers vs concrete patio).

  • Asphalt 

This material is used to make a range of surfaces for paving. You can use any type of asphalt, or macadam surface to create a solid driveway foundation that is strong enough to last over time in a similar way to concrete. 

  • Concrete 

This ultra-durable material is ideal for upgrading your driveway or giving an old carport a facelift. Other additional spaces are also ideal for using concrete in design. However, it may not be the most cost-effective choice due to the installation process. Over time, many homeowners rely on concrete to strengthen parking spaces, driveways, and other outdoor areas. 

  • Pavers

You can create all types of patterns, designs, and custom driveway with pavers that require proper installation. If you are a novice DIY home improvement driveway installer, call the offices of Cricket Pavers for support in the process. 

Generally, the process requires pre-cut pavers that offer a standard size, and shape for a relatively smooth finished surface. Over time you will find that laying a solid foundation below the pavers is also essential to minimizing uneven spots and limiting maintenance.

  • Gravel & Aggregate Materials

 Loose materials like gravel and other aggregates are ideal for specific areas of your front driveway.

  • Tar & Chip

A less expensive alternative to asphalt, this attractive option is ideal for resurfacing your driveway. In tar, and chip paving, small stones are embedded in a surface layer of tar to create a variable surface. This option is ideal for people who desire a unique texture. 

The Differences Between Driveway Pavers vs Concrete

Here is a simple breakdown of the main differences between pavers vs concrete:

Driveway Pavers

This type of pathway paver is visually appealing, and offers so many creative design patterns to customize your driveway – any way you like! 

Pros of Paver Driveways:

  • Unlimited designs
  • Less maintenance
  • Easy-to-do repairs
  • Visually appealing
  • Higher resale value
  • Resistance to cracking 

Cons of Paver Driveways: 

  • May deteriorate over time
  • More difficult installation
  • Harder to clean and maintain
  • More expensive option
  • May loosen or crack

COST:  $1,310 – $1,770 (per 120 square feet)driveway pavers vs concrete

Driveway Concrete 

If you decide to use concrete as a driveway paver, you can keep your front pathway looking fresh. However, there are still many creative options for a unique appearance that is all your own. 

Pro’s of Concrete Driveways:

  • Affordable
  • Durable and strong
  • Simple installation process

Con’s of Concrete Driveways:

  • Limited options for customization
  • Lower overall cost
  • Lower maintenance costs
  • Discoloration over time
  • May split or crack
  • Can be affected by extreme temperatures 
  • Slippery when wet or icy 

A DIY home driveway is easier to make when you have the support of professionals. Call the offices of Cricket Pavers to talk to a specialist that can walk you through the planning, materials, and building phases of this simple home improvement job.

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