Paving Stones or Concrete Slabs: Which Is the Ideal Paving Solution?
As a homeowner, you need to decide which pavement material you'll use for your pavement, walkways or patios. Some paving materials are cheaper while others are aesthetically appealing, sturdy and durable. Therefore, you need to narrow down to what you prefer to make this hard choice. Paving stones and concrete slabs are the two most preferred paving solutions. Each option comes with different qualities and benefits as compared to the other. For better decision making, below are important features that each of the options brings to the table.
Paving Stones
Also known as brick pavers, these are individual blocks, usually made of brick, concrete or natural stone. The blocks are installed in such a way that they interlock, making them rigid and sturdy. Pavers are appealing due to their flexibility. They can be manipulated to create different designs and come in different colors. However, they are complex to install — hence, advisable to hire a professional to do the installing. Due to their flexible system of installation, they are easy and inexpensive to maintain. They can handle heavy loads and rarely crack — hence, they are perfect for driveways. If one cracks, it can be easily replaced, as repairs are done on small sections due to their small nature.
Paving stones offer a variety of material that you can select from. Ranging from bricks to natural stones, you can select one that matches your theme and will give your yard and driveway a perfect finish. Pavers are perfect for areas with frequent or high rainfall. This is because the spaces in between don't allow water to settle, which helps you avoid any drainage issues.
Concrete Slabs
Concrete slabs are made from a mixture of sand, cement, dyes and pigments. The slabs are usually created on-site and are perfect for a DIY project, or they may be manufactured and delivered for installation. Preferred mostly due to their ease of installation and affordability, they're perfect for outdoor areas such as patios and pavements. Concrete slabs aren't flexible in their color schemes; however, you can choose different decorative designs and stamped schemes to complement your landscape appearance. Options such as colored concrete are costly to maintain, as you'll have to repaint your pavement occasionally.
When installed, concrete slabs are meant to be maintenance-free. Considering their sturdy and hardened appearance, they're not expected to break nor weather out. This makes them perfect for sidewalks. Concrete slabs are usually large in size, so they are easily affected by any earth movement. They may crack or even split if the earth slightly shifts. Therefore, they're not advisable to use in areas with histories of tremors and earthquakes.
These are just some of the notable characteristics of concrete slabs and paving stones that you should consider before making your final decision. The best paving solution is dependent on your needs and taste. Contact your preferred landscape designer for advice on installation, costs and repairs