For anyone that has decided to redo or install a new patio, walkway or driveway, selecting the best material to use can be a difficult decision to make, especially if you are choosing between concrete pavers or bricks. When it comes to making this decision, it’s important to understand the difference between pavers and bricks. Concrete pavers offer more diversity than bricks and can be found in many different shapes, textures, colors and sizes. Let’s take a look at some of the other advantages that concrete pavers provide.
Versatility
Although brick pavers are available in a few different colors and sizes, the options are nothing compared to the combinations of color, pattern, size and shapes available with concrete pavers. In fact, one of the biggest disparities between brick pavers and concrete pavers is the shapes that are available.
Because each patio, walkway or driveway project will vary in design, it’s a luxury to have access to a wide array of shapes available to reflect your own personal style and taste. To meet the needs of discerning homeowners, manufacturers create concrete pavers in a wide array of shapes including Octagon, square, cobble-stone, etc.. Concrete pavers can even be made to look like a brick if that works for your landscape design needs.
Durability
When it comes to durability, concrete pavers last longer than bricks. Since pavers are designed to be stronger than a brick, they are less likely to break or crack over time. For example, if brick pavers are used for a driveway, the ongoing use will, more than likely, cause the brick to shear or chip. Concrete bricks are also less likely to be able to withstand extreme weather changes as their smaller size and fragile state makes them more susceptible to cold weather damage.
Cost
Since concrete bricks are more difficult to manufacture than concrete pavers, they can typically cost as much as 20% more than concrete pavers. By selecting concrete pavers for your driveway, patio or walkways, you get the best of both worlds, design freedom to represent your unique style at a very competitive price point.
As you design your next landscape project, think about the investment you’re making to increase the value and curb appeal of your home, and the benefits that come with the implementation of concrete pavers. The comparison to brick pavers makes the decision an easy one.