Key Takeaways
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost Per Square Foot Installed (Concrete) | $4 – $15 |
| Cost Per Square Foot Installed (Pavers) | $10 – $30 |
| Average 1-Car Driveway Cost (Concrete) | $800 – $2,300 |
| Average 1-Car Driveway Cost (Pavers) | $2,900 – $8,600 |
| Average 2-Car Driveway Cost (Concrete) | $1,600 – $4,600 |
| Average 2-Car Driveway Cost (Pavers) | $5,700 – $17,200 |
| Average Patio Cost (20’x20′) (Concrete) | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Average Patio Cost (20’x20′) (Pavers) | $3,800 – $6,800 |
Pavers and concrete are popular options for patios and driveways. Understanding the costs, benefits, and potential drawbacks of each can help you make an informed decision for your project.
Cost Pavers vs Concrete & Comparison
Comparing Pavers vs Concrete for Patios and Driveways
| Factor | Pavers | Concrete |
|---|---|---|
| Average Cost per Square Foot Installed | $10 – $30 | $4 – $15 |
| Average 1-Car Driveway Cost | $2,900 – $8,600 | $800 – $2,300 |
| Average 2-Car Driveway Cost | $5,700 – $17,200 | $1,600 – $4,600 |
| Average Patio Cost (20’x20′) | $3,800 – $6,800 | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Appearance | High-end aesthetic with limitless color, shape, & design flexibility | Less visually appealing, limited color, shape, & design options |
| Durability | Durable & flexible, may loosen over time | Durable, may crack from ground shifts |
| Climate Concerns | Stable in most climates | May split in extreme temperatures |
| Safety Concerns | Not as smooth to walk on | May become slippery when wet |
| Installation | Labor-intensive installation | Easier to install |
| Maintenance | Easier to repair but more difficult to clean | More challenging to repair but easier to clean |
| Property Value | Increases home value | May increase home value |
| Lifespan | 25 – 75+ years | 30 – 50+ years |
Appearance
Pavers offer a high-end aesthetic with limitless color, shape, and design flexibility, while concrete provides a less visually appealing option with limited color, shape, and design options.
Durability
Pavers are durable and flexible but may loosen over time, whereas concrete is also durable but can crack from ground shifts.
Climate Concerns
Pavers are stable in most climates, while concrete may split in extreme temperatures.
Safety Concerns
Pavers are not as smooth to walk on, whereas concrete may become slippery when wet.
Installation
Pavers require labor-intensive installation, while concrete is easier to install.
Maintenance
Pavers are easier to repair but more difficult to clean, whereas concrete is more challenging to repair but easier to clean.
Property Value
Both pavers and concrete can increase home value, with pavers typically providing a higher increase.
Lifespan
Pavers can last 25 to 75+ years, while concrete can last 30 to 50+ years.
Paver Prices vs Concrete Material Costs
Paver Prices vs Concrete Material Costs
| Material | Average Material Price per Square Foot* |
|---|---|
| Concrete Slab | $3.00 – $7.00 |
| Bluestone Pavers | $6.00 – $14.00 |
| Clay Brick Pavers | $1.40 – $15.00 |
| Cobblestone Pavers | $10.00 – $25.00 |
| Concrete Pavers | $1.25 – $18.00 |
| Granite Pavers | $10.00 – $15.00 |
| Limestone Pavers | $7.00 – $15.00 |
| Permeable Pavers | $4.00 – $12.00 |
| Plastic Pavers | $1.90 – $8.00 |
| Porcelain Pavers | $1.10 – $18.00 |
| Rubber Pavers | $1.70 – $10.00 |
| Slate Pavers | $3.60 – $20.00 |
| Stone Pavers | $0.50 – $14.00 |
| Travertine Pavers | $0.50 – $11.50 |
Installation
Pavers require a more labor-intensive installation process compared to concrete, which is generally easier and quicker to install.
Maintenance & Repairs
Pavers are easier to repair since individual pavers can be replaced, but they are more difficult to clean. Concrete is more challenging to repair, as cracks need to be filled or resurfaced, but it is easier to clean.
Property Value
Pavers typically increase home value more than concrete due to their aesthetic appeal and durability.
Concrete Patio Cost vs.Patio Pavers
Concrete Patio vs Patio Pavers Cost Comparison
| Patio Type | Average Cost per Square Foot Installed | Average Total Cost (20’x20′ Patio) |
|---|---|---|
| Average Paver Patio | $10 – $17 | $4,000 – $6,800 |
| High-End Paver Patio | $25 – $40 | $10,000 – $16,000 |
| Basic Concrete Patio | $5 – $15 | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Exposed Aggregate Concrete Patio | $7 – $18 | $2,800 – $7,200 |
| Epoxy-Coated or Painted Concrete Patio | $7 – $22 | $2,800 – $8,800 |
| Stained Concrete Patio | $8 – $25 | $3,200 – $10,000 |
| Stamped Concrete Patio | $8 – $19 | $3,200 – $7,600 |
Paver Driveway Cost vs Concrete
Concrete Driveway vs Driveway Pavers Cost Comparison
| Driveway Material Type | Average Installed Cost per Square Foot | Total Cost Installed* |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Poured Concrete Driveway | $4 – $8 | $1,600 – $4,600 |
| Stained Concrete | $8 – $12 | $4,600 – $6,900 |
| Stamped Concrete | $12 – $18 | $6,900 – $10,400 |
| Brick Pavers | $10 – $25 | $5,500 – $14,500 |
| Cobblestone Pavers | $20 – $50 | $12,000 – $30,000 |
| Concrete Pavers | $10 – $20 | $5,500 – $11,500 |
| Stone Pavers | $10 – $30 | $5,500 – $18,000 |
| Porcelain Pavers | $15 – $30 | $8,500 – $18,000 |
| Rubber Pavers | $8 – $15 | $4,500 – $8,500 |
| Permeable Pavers | $8 – $30 | $4,000 – $17,000 |
Getting Estimates from Paver Installers and Concrete Contractors
When seeking estimates for your paver or concrete project, consider the following tips:
- Get Multiple Quotes: Compare prices and services from different contractors.
- Check References: Look for reviews and testimonials from previous clients.
- Verify Credentials: Ensure the contractor is licensed, insured, and experienced in installing pavers or concrete.
- Ask About Customization: See if they offer custom solutions to meet your specific needs.
Questions to Ask Your Paver or Concrete Contractor
- How long have you been in business?
- Can you provide references from similar projects?
- What services are included in your standard package?
- Do you offer any specialized designs?
- What are your rates for additional services?
- How do you handle unexpected issues or additional requests?
Cost of Pavers vs Concrete Summary
Choosing between pavers and concrete for your patio or driveway depends on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and maintenance considerations. Pavers offer a high-end look and increased property value, while concrete provides a more affordable and low-maintenance option.
For more information on pavers and concrete and to explore other cost-related guides, visit our detailed articles on paver patio installation cost and concrete driveway cost.
