Concrete, Bricks, or Pavers? What is Best for Patios and Driveways

By PacificoutdoorlivingOwn work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Although they are different when it comes to utility, patios and driveways do have something in common, explaining why they’re essentially part of the “face” of the house. In other words, they’re part of the first things people see when they look at your home.

Therefore, a well-maintained driveway and patio can leave a positive impression upon those who visit your home. Choosing the materials for your new driveway or patio is vital not only to the enhanced appearance of your home but also to its overall structural integrity.

The ones preferred by most homeowners among the available materials are concrete, bricks, and pavers. However, which one can be considered the best for your home?

Concrete

Concrete is the most commonly used material for patios and driveways due to its more affordable nature and fairly easy installation and maintenance. They’re also quite durable and can last a long time. Moreover, with the option of stamped concrete being available nowadays, you can have more options when it comes to its appearance. If you’re in need of installation, it is important to work with a reputable company. We suggest a quality concrete contractor Austin, TX to help you with your needs.

The only downside to concrete patios and driveways is that they’re prone to cracking, especially driveways which are constantly subjected to the weight of a car. Moreover, repairs may also end up being costly as well.

Nevertheless, concrete is a good option for your new patio or driveway, especially if you’re on a budget.

Brick

Brick is another preferred material, sometimes even more than concrete, due to its more aesthetic appearance. When maintained properly, patios and driveways made of brick can last for a very long time.

However, brick as a material is more suited to patios than driveways because being constantly subjected to the weight of a car can greatly decrease its longevity and durability. Moreover, unlike concrete, they are more expensive, though not as much as pavers.

Despite this, bricks can greatly enhance the appearance of your home should you go with this option. It can make your patio or driveway more visually pleasing without too much of an increase in your budget.

Pavers

A newer type of paving material, pavers can be made of various different materials including concrete and clay (something which bricks is also made of). Like bricks, they offer a more enhanced appearance for your patio or driveway as they come in various colors, textures, and sizes.

They also have the added benefit of being incredibly durable; both for use on patios and driveways. They can also be easily repaired, and unlike bricks, they only require little maintenance. There are even options available for eco-friendly pavers made by Ecoraster if you want a rustic feel. Also, compared to both concrete and bricks, they have a longer lifespan and require very little maintenance.

They can also withstand the weight of a car and heavy foot traffic, making them perfect for use on both a patio and a driveway. However, compared to concrete and brick, pavers can be more expensive, especially in terms of installation.

Nonetheless, the increased longevity and durability, coupled with its vast selection for aesthetic purposes, make the price worth it.

Which is the Best Option?

While it seems like pavers win this round, not everyone has the same preference. Therefore, when it comes to which material is the best, it’s ultimately up to you and your needs. Nevertheless, whichever material you choose, you will need a concrete contractor to help with all your concrete needs.