As for installation and concrete costs, poured concrete is technically the most affordable per square foot. However, even though the initial cost of pavers is higher, concrete pavers offer greater value and durability than poured concrete and stamped concrete. In terms of cost, concrete slabs are generally less expensive up front, but may incur more costs over time, as they need to be repaired or replaced. Both stamped concrete and pavers have a higher initial cost than slab concrete.
Patterned concrete can have problems similar to slab concrete in terms of stains or cracks, which can lead to higher costs over time. Cobblestones, which are usually in the same price range as stamped concrete, are easier to repair or replace if damage occurs over time. Concrete is less expensive than pavers, both in terms of materials and labor price. The cost of a driveway varies considerably depending on the size, slope, amount of excavation required, whether a new driveway is installed or an existing one is replaced, and more.
The same applies to the cost of installing patios and walkways. Cobblestones are available at very affordable prices. No matter what style you choose, there is a cost-effective option within that range. The pavement is cheaper compared to concrete and is a higher quality product.
Cost-effectiveness also applies in terms of installation. The only time the costs are almost similar is the preparation time, because the space must be excavated, leveled and filled with the bedding material that forms the base. In order for your pavers to be positioned correctly and last, it is advisable to use suitable bed sand under the pavers. The main problem with concrete material is that the slabs are greatly affected by soil movement and significant temperature changes.
In the case of concrete slabs, for example, it is quite common for such damage to be related to surface cracks. Cutting the concrete to access any underground utility can be a challenge, and then trying to repair the concrete can be difficult and it will not match the existing concrete and appear “patched”. If you can get a tradie to do your paving, it may be easier and more profitable to use pavers on poured concrete. If you don't plan to sell your property for many years, the resale value of concrete decreases and it may even be completely nullified, because you will likely have to pay for a full replacement every 25 to 30 years.
Both are made of similar materials, however, while concrete consists of sand, water, cement and aggregates, asphalt is made of gravel, sand, crushed rock or tar. Stamped concrete is the same as poured concrete, but has a stamped or textured finish that provides traction and a more pleasing aesthetic. Both materials are reasonably durable, but pavers can withstand approximately four times the weight that concrete can tolerate. Cobblestones are also less likely to fade or wear out in high-traffic areas compared to concrete due to the fact that color is embedded throughout the stone.
In addition, one or more pavers can be removed and replaced while maintaining the visual integrity of the installation, while concrete repairs are generally evident. Concrete generally requires less maintenance, since weeds do not grow between concrete slabs as they can between pavers. The only exception to this is the installation of concrete poured on a steep slope, since it can be difficult to do well because concrete is a viscous and liquid mixture that wants to run downhill if given the opportunity. .