John Brown
9/20/24
Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor for Jacksonville homeowners when making improvements to their properties.
Choosing between patio pavers and decking often boils down to cost and value. Both options require an investment, but they differ in terms of initial costs, long-term expenses, and overall value.
If you're torn between these options for your outdoor space, this blog will break down their value and benefits to ensure every penny you spend equates to a lasting and enjoyable outdoor space.
Overview of Patio Pavers
Patio pavers are flat, rectangular pieces of stone, concrete, or brick used to create outdoor surfaces like patios, walkways, and driveways. They are laid in patterns on a prepared base and held together by a jointing material, creating a stable and attractive surface.
Known for their durability and versatility, patio pavers are a popular choice for homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor living spaces.
Benefits
Pavers can handle heavy loads and resist cracking, making them suitable for driveways and high-traffic areas.
Pavers can be customized to match any design aesthetic with its extensive range of colors, shapes, and materials available
If a paver becomes damaged or stained, it can be easily replaced without disturbing the surrounding area.
Pavers are designed to withstand various weather conditions, including intense heat, heavy rain, and freeze-thaw cycles.
Types of Patio Pavers to Choose From
Patio pavers come in a variety of materials, each offering unique aesthetic and functional benefits. Choosing the right type of paver can significantly enhance the look and durability of your outdoor space.
Some of the popular options for a paver patio project include:
Brick: Known for their classic and timeless look, brick pavers add a rustic charm to any outdoor space. They are durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic.
Natural Stone: This category includes materials like granite, limestone, and slate. Natural stone pavers offer a luxurious and sophisticated appearance, with each piece being unique in texture and color.
Concrete: Concrete pavers are versatile and cost-effective and available in a wide range of colors and patterns. They can mimic the look of more expensive materials while being easier to install and maintain.
Travertine: A type of limestone, travertine pavers are known for their elegant, natural appearance and cool surface, making them ideal for poolside patios.
Overview of Decking
Decking is a popular choice for creating outdoor living spaces, offering a warm and inviting platform for relaxation and entertainment. Made from various materials, decking can be customized to fit a range of styles and preferences.
Whether you're looking to build a cozy backyard retreat or a spacious area for hosting gatherings, decking provides a versatile solution for enhancing your home's exterior.
Benefits
Decking provides a warm and inviting surface that enhances the natural beauty of your yard.
Decking can be customized with various finishes, stains, and accessories to match your personal style.
Decks can be built at different levels and in wide variety of shapes to accommodate the layout of your yard. (i.e. built-in seating, pool decks, planters, and lighting)
Decking can often be installed relatively quickly allowing you to enjoy your new space sooner.
Types of Decking Materials
Creating the perfect outdoor deck starts with choosing the right material that complements your home's aesthetic. Let's check out the materials available to help you achieve the perfect look for your outdoor space.
Wood: Traditional wood decking, such as cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine. Wood decks are valued for their warmth and intricate design options, but require regular maintenance to prevent rot, splintering, and insect damage.
Composite: Made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic which is designed to mimic the look of wood while providing greater durability. Composite decks resist fading, staining, and scratching.
PVC: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) decking is a synthetic option that offers exceptional durability and minimal upkeep. PVC decks are resistant to moisture, insects, and mold, and they come in a variety of colors and styles.
Comparing Costs of Patio Pavers and Decking
The initial cost of patio pavers can vary widely based on the material chosen. Natural stone pavers like granite or slate are typically more expensive, while concrete and brick pavers are more budget-friendly.
On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $10 to $30 per square foot for materials and installation. One of the significant advantages of patio pavers is their low maintenance cost.
In contrast, decking costs also vary depending on the material. Wood decking, such as cedar or redwood, generally labor costs between $15 to $25 per square foot.
Composite and PVC decking are usually more expensive, ranging from $20 to $45 per square foot, including the cost of installation. These types of decks have lower maintenance requirements, primarily needing periodic cleaning, but their initial higher cost may offset these savings.
Should You Get Patio Pavers or Decking for Your Outdoor Living Space?
Deciding between patio pavers and decking depends on your personal preferences, budget, and maintenance requirements. Both options offer unique benefits and can enhance the beauty and functionality of your outdoor area. Whichever option you choose, both patio pavers and decking can create an enjoyable outdoor environment that adds value to your home.
Here at Coastal Patio Pavers, we specialize in helping homeowners transform their outdoor spaces with high-quality patio pavers. Our team of experts can guide you through the selection process, ensuring you choose the best materials and designs to suit your style and budget.
Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you create the outdoor living space of your dreams.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between pavers and patio slabs?
Pavers are individual, small pieces of stone, brick, or concrete that are laid out in various patterns. Patio slabs, on the other hand, are larger, single pieces of concrete or stone that are more uniform and seamless. Permeable pavers offer better flexibility and easier repairs, while patio slabs are quicker to install but may crack over time.
What is used under patio pavers?
Under patio pavers, a base layer of compacted gravel or crushed stone is typically used to provide stability and proper drainage. This is followed by a layer of sand, which helps to create a smooth surface for the pavers to rest on. Properly preparing the base is crucial to ensure the longevity and durability of the patio.
How long does a paver patio last?
A well-installed and properly maintained paver patio can last up to 25 to 50 years or more. The longevity depends on the quality of the materials used and the level of maintenance, such as regular cleaning and occasional sealing. Individual pavers can also be replaced easily if they become damaged, which helps extend the overall lifespan of the patio.
Does the paver base need concrete?
Paver base does not necessarily need to be set in concrete. They can be installed on a well-prepared base of sand bed, which provides stability and allows for drainage. However, using a concrete base can enhance durability and is often recommended for driveways and high-traffic areas.
What is the cheapest way to build a patio?
The cheapest way is by using budget-friendly materials like concrete or gravel, which are a less expensive choice for patios than natural stone or brick. Opt for a simple array of patterns and consider hiring a skilled paver installer to prevent costly errors. You can reach out to Coastal Patio Pavers to minimize the cost of time needed to build your patio pavers.
What size pavers to use for a patio?
Consider the overall design and scale of your outdoor space. Larger pavers (12x12 inches or bigger) can create a sleek, modern look and are great for expansive areas, while smaller pavers (such as 4x8 inches) can add intricate detail to your outdoor space. Consider looking for design inspiration if you think you only have a limited choice of design scheme.
