Comparing Stamped Concrete And Concrete Pavers

Stamped concrete and concrete pavers are two popular paving options for driveways, walkways, and backyard patios. Though they are made out of concrete, stamped concrete and concrete pavers possess two very distinct set of advantages and disadvantages due to their unique fabrication and installation methods. Understanding the differences between stamped concrete and concrete pavers can help you choose the one that best suits your paving needs.

Stamped Concrete

Stamped concrete is concrete that is actually poured into place by paving contractors, and represents the traditional method of paving a flat surface. The main draw of stamped concrete is that it can easily imitate other types of materials, like natural stone, through the use of stamped patterns and colors. Colors can be mixed into the concrete right on site, allowing you to customize the appearance of your paved surface easily and exactly to your specifications. Additionally, stamped concrete is sealed after it's installed to preserve the color and pattern, which increases the already high durability of the material and making it ideal for areas where it may be exposed to chemicals, such as pool walkways.

However, stamped concrete is an expensive paving option, partly because it requires professional installation. This makes it less than ideal than other paving options for homeowners who have a tight budget. Furthermore, stamped concrete is susceptible to cracking in freezing temperatures, which means that it is not the best choice for colder climates. Also, repairs tend to be quite expensive, as the entire surface will need to be replaced.

Concrete Pavers

Unlike traditional paving options, concrete pavers are precut concrete "stones" or pieces that can be put together to create a flat hard surface in your yard. They don't crack as easily as stamped concrete, making them better suited for colder climates, and representing lower maintenance and repair costs over the long run. Furthermore, concrete pavers tend to be less expensive than stamped concrete, as they do not require professional installation and come in a variety of price points, making them easier to match to limited budgets. Furthermore, damage can be easily fixed by simply replacing the paver in question, instead of the entire surface.

However, concrete pavers cannot be customized as stamped concrete can be, as they are premade. Furthermore, depending on the ground that they are installed on, they can settle into an uneven surface, which is something that stamped concrete does not suffer from. Finally, unlike stamped concrete, plants can grow up between the spaces in the pavers, ruining the aesthetic of your paved surface.