Concrete Pavers vs. Natural Stone Pavers: Which is Better?

Pavers are popular materials often used for pathways, driveways, and even patios due to their versatile design options and strong durability. Concrete pavers and natural stone pavers are two of the most popular types of pavers nowadays. 

Concrete Pavers vs. Natural Stone Pavers: Key Differences

Concrete and natural stone pavers are both favored by homeowners for very similar reasons. They are both durable. They come in pieces, making them easy to install. They both provide an eye-catching aesthetic. They can also increase your property’s value. Nonetheless, concrete and stone pavers still differ in the following key areas:

• Pricing: Natural stone pavers tend to be a lot more expensive than concrete pavers.

• Appearance: Each natural stone paver has a unique pattern, whereas concrete pavers provide a more consistent look.

• Surface: Natural stone pavers create a textured surface, whereas concrete pavers usually ensure a smooth, flat surface.

• Shape: Natural stone pavers can come in irregular shapes, whereas concrete pavers are usually rectangular or square-shaped.

Because of these key differences, concrete and stone pavers may be suitable for different purposes and projects in your home. It’s important to understand the pros and cons of each so you know which one is the best choice for your project.

What Are Concrete Pavers?

Concrete pavers are a versatile material suitable for various outdoor projects, including driveways, patios, walkways, and decks. Generally, they are more functional than decorative and should be used in high foot-traffic areas. Concrete pavers cost $10 to $30 per square foot with labor included.

Best for: driveways

Pros of Concrete Pavers

In addition to its modern, industrial look, homeowners favor concrete pavers for many other reasons as well. The biggest advantages of concrete pavers include:

• Smooth and even surface: Concrete pavers create a smooth surface.

• Various design options: Concrete pavers come in different sizes and finishes and, when fully installed, can create a sophisticated interlocking or grid visual.

• Extremely durable: Concrete is extremely durable against impact and pressure. They can also be sealed to stand against chemical and oil spills.

• Easily replaceable: Unlike stamped concrete, concrete pavers can be individually replaced, minimizing the cost of repair.

• More affordable: Concrete pavers are generally more affordable than natural stone pavers.

Cons of Concrete Pavers

However, concrete pavers do come with certain drawbacks:

• Water damage: Concrete is vulnerable to water damage and can crack or bulge due to pooling water. They can also crack from erosion.

• Maintenance needs: Concrete pavers need to be sealed seasonally to retain their color.

• Shorter lifespan: Concrete pavers tend to have a shorter lifespan than natural stone pavers

• Pollution in production: The concrete manufacturing process is less eco-friendly.

What Are Natural Stone Pavers?

Natural stone pavers are the classic choice for those wanting a timeless look. Common natural paver options include flagstones and bluestones. Flagstones are a sedimentary rock bound together by thousands of years of pressure, such as sandstone, limestone, and slate. Bluestones are a special type of flagstone formed by fusing waterbody deposits. Bluestones got their name due to their rich, blue-gray color. Natural stone pavers cost between $6 and $20 per square foot in terms of material. Installation cost varies from $30 to $40 per square foot.

Best for: Walkways, patios, pool decks.

Pros of Natural Stone Pavers

Natural stone pavers stand out in competition for many reasons:

• Classic look: Nothing can beat the timeless look natural stone pavers bring.

• Design versatility: Natural stone pavers come in various shapes, sizes, and finishes. Some flagstone pieces may even be irregularly shaped.

• Low maintenance: Other than basic cleaning, natural stone pavers require barely any maintenance

• Extremely durable: Natural stone pavers last longer than concrete pavers

• Eco-friendly: Natural stone pavers are more sustainable and recyclable.

Cons of Natural Stone Pavers

• Uneven surface: Natural stone pavers may create an uneven surface, which can be challenging for those bound by wheelchairs.

• Higher cost: Natural stone pavers tend to be more expensive than concrete pavers.

• Labor-intensive installation: Installing natural stone pavers is a heavy-duty job that should only be done by experienced pros. The project can also take longer to complete.

Concrete Pavers vs. Natural Stone Pavers

Concrete pavers and natural stone pavers each stand out for certain reasons. Knowing what you need and your project limitations, like budget and timeframe, can help you make the right choice between concrete and natural stone pavers.

Appearance: Natural Stone Pavers

Natural stone pavers provide your home with a classic, sophisticated appearance. They also come in many different shapes and sizes, including irregular shapes. This design versatility makes natural stone pavers the perfect option for those looking to enhance their curb appeal.

Durability: Natural Stone Pavers

Natural stone pavers are far more durable than concrete pavers, as proven by the many historic stone buildings that still stand tall today. Natural stone pavers are also highly resistant to erosion and water damage. It’s very rare that a natural stone paver chips or breaks.

Cost: Concrete Pavers

Concrete pavers are more affordable than natural stone pavers. Therefore, they may be a better choice if you have a modest budget or need to cover a large surface. A concrete paver driveway costs $10 to $25 per square foot, whereas stone pavers would cost $15 to $60 per square foot.

Easy to Install: Concrete Pavers

Concrete pavers are easier to install than natural stone pavers. A handy homeowner with a helpful friend may DIY concrete paver installation. Meanwhile, natural stone installation is extremely labor-intensive and time-consuming. However, we recommend you hire a professional paver company for the project, regardless of your choice of material.

Eco-Friendliness: Natural Stone Pavers

The name says it all. Natural stone pavers are more eco-friendly than concrete pavers. A massive amount of energy is consumed to manufacture concrete. Concrete pavers also have a higher carbon footprint because many ingredients used in the manufacturing process are shipped from other areas.

Accessibility: Concrete Pavers

The textured surface of natural stone pavers can sometimes be challenging for those relying on wheelchairs. Natura stone pavers are also frequently placed with gaps in between, where grass can grow and wheelchairs may get caught. The smooth concrete pavers provide more accessibility. However, concrete pavers should be properly sealed to prevent slip and fall risks under wetter conditions.