Stamped Concrete vs Pavers

Many customers have asked, “What is the difference between stamped concrete vs pavers?” Stamped Concrete is concrete that has been stamped with a design or pattern of the homeowner’s choice. The stamp is applied after the initial concrete is poured and before it hardens. Stamped concrete is commonly colored (tinted) before it is poured. This gives the look of paving stones without the cost of installing actual pavers. This method is a great way to give character and beauty to a driveway, poolside area, or even a walkway alongside a house without a large initial cost. However, as with any other types of concrete, the stamped concrete has a tendency to crack.

Concrete cracks are inevitable and they happen for several reasons. Heavy loads, settling, and shrinking of concrete over time are among the top reasons why concrete cracks. The downside of cracks in concrete is the repair. Whether it’s standard grey concrete, or stamped concrete, there is no seamless way to patch cracks. It becomes more difficult over time to perfectly match the color and composition of the concrete to perform a perfect fix. Thus, over time, fixing any concrete diminishes its look and appeal. The only alternative to fixing the cracks is to pour new concrete, stamp it, and hope it will not crack too soon.

Paving stones, also known as “Pavers,” are individual units of brick, which come in an expansive variety of surface finishes, shapes and colors. They can be installed with a multitude of patterns and designs. Pavers are installed over gravel and sand. They are designed to expand and contract as needed to eliminate cracking commonly associated with concrete. Each paver is built to interlock with another, creating a strong, durable surface.

Advantages

One of the greatest advantages of pavers is the ease of repair. Pavers are manufactured to be uniform. If a paver were to crack, it could be replaced with an exact match. This allows for any repairs to have a seamless look. If an area were to raise or lower due to shifting, earthquakes, or heavy loads, the gravel and/or sand underneath each stone can be modified to bring the surface back to a level platform.

When deciding between stamped concrete and pavers, make sure to compare the versatility of each when it comes to pattern and repairs. Stamped Concrete can have several designs and colors and is cheaper than pavers to install, but the cost of repairs or repaving can become very substantial. Pavers have a wide array of shapes, patterns, colors, and designs. Although more expensive, pavers create a lasting, maintenance free surface to enjoy for many years.

Stamped Concrete vs Pavers

Advantages

Showroom Address

Contact Information

Office Hours

Portfolio