Pavers Vs Concrete: Cost Comparison Chart

Cost Criteria

Pavers

Concrete

Installation cost 

$10-$15 per sq ft on average 

$5-$8 per sq ft

Labor cost 

Higher

Lower

Repairing cost 

low

High 

Resale value 

High 

Low

Lifespan 

30-50 years

20 years 

Prone to cracking

No

Yes

Cost Analysis Of Paver Vs Concrete

The overall cost comparison between pavers and concrete includes material cost, installation cost, maintenance cost, repairing cost, and finally, the add-on or decoration cost.

Material cost 

Paver has a wide variety of designs and textures, which increases the price. Each square foot of pavers costs $8-$50, depending on quality and design.  On the other hand, concrete doesn’t need design variation and is a simple material—a plain slab of concrete costs $6 to $9 per sq ft.

Installation cost 

Generally, paver installation cost is higher. It needs to be placed one by one, so the labor charge is higher. Depending on the design, the price can vary. For example, herringbone-style or spiral-style pavers need complex labor work and critical thinking, which increases the installation cost.

In contrast, concrete only needs to be poured, smoothed, and cured. So concrete patio, driveway, and walkway are much simpler to install, consequently lowering the installation price. 

Maintenance cost 

Pavers need less maintenance, as they are more durable than concrete. Paver is made in a way to survive the strong, unstable climate, so it doesn’t need frequent maintenance. However, concrete is more prone to cracking. So it needs maintenance more often, increasing the overall cost. 

Repairing cost 

As pavers come in blocks, if one paver gets damaged, that particular paver can be repaired individually. So in this case, the whole patio doesn’t need to be repaired. This is very handy and time-efficient, as well as cost-efficient. On the other hand, cracking the concrete needs to uproot the whole lot, then rapport the concrete mixture. 

Decoration cost 

Pavers come with a wide variety of designs and textures. The customer selects the design as per their wish before the installation. So you only need to pay for the material and installation charge. In the case of concrete, stamping, etching, or engraving, and other decorative processes are done to mimic stone or bricks, after pouring the concrete. This decoration cost exceeds the patio installation cost due to extended labor and design costs.

What are the cost variation factors in pavers and concrete?

  • Durability 

Pavers are more durable than concrete in the long run. On average, pavers can withstand 30-50 years in adverse climatic conditions, whereas concrete’s lifespan is 20 years. 

  • Aesthetics & design 

There are multiple aesthetics and designs to choose from pavers, such as herringbone, zigzag, spiral, etc. Complex designs require more time and effort, hence increasing the price.

  • Customizability 

In the case of concrete, there is not much scope for customization. Etching or engraving, stamping processes are lengthy and tiresome, and costly.  thats why people switch to pavers for moderate customization cost.

  • Site preparation

Before installing pavers or concrete in your patio, walkway, or driveway, landscapers need to excavate, sand-base the site. If your soil site is too sturdy to work with, it will increase the cost. 

  • Location

The cost of pavers and concrete also depends on the location you’re in. Consult with your local landscapers or GLscapers if you’re in the San Francisco Bay Area, to get a cost estimation in total. 

When To Choose Pavers Or Concrete: Expert Advice From GLscape

Choose pavers when

Choose Concrete when 

  • No budget issue 
  • Durable 
  • Unstable or freeze-thaw climate 
  • Custom design 
  • Premium curb appeal 
  • Less maintenance required 
  • Lower repairing cost
  • Limited budget 
  • The initial cost is cheaper 
  • Stable climate 
  • No ground movement 
  • Aesthetics isn’t main concern 
  • A simple look is preferred 
  • Frequent maintenance is okay

Why Choose GLscape For Your Patio Installation?

GLscape, based in the San Francisco Bay Area, is an experienced landscaper company. We provide premium quality pavers and patio materials that are tailored to the coastal climate of Daly City, SF. Why choose us? Because we have-

  • Experienced worker 
  • Aesthetic and customizable design 
  • Local climate experts & guidance  
  • Comprehensive service 
  • High-quality materials 
  • Expert Consultation and 3D render

Conclusion

On the initial stage, pavers are more costly than concrete. However, pavers are more durable and need less maintenance and repair costs in the long run. Concrete is simple and moderately durable. So if you’re looking for design and aesthetics for your home, then opting for pavers is a great decision. You can book a consultation at GLandscape, located at 455 Eastmoor Ave, Daly City, CA 94015, USA, for premium paver installation and expert advice.

FAQ

What is the difference between concrete and pavers?

Concrete is bland-looking, prone to cracking in a freeze-thaw environment. Paver is installed block-by-block, so it’s easy to repair and offers a premium curb appeal.

 

Can you put a hot tub on the pavers?

You can put a hot tub on pavers; however, the base must be stable enough to avoid accidents. 

 

Are pavers high maintenance?

No, pavers are not high maintenance. But it required occasional cleaning of weeds, moss to look neat.