When your patio, walkway or driveway is cracked, crumbled and concave, it’s time to look into replacing the surface before someone gets injured. Now the great debate–to use pavers, or to use pavement? That is a question; a rather serious one too. Concrete slabs are commonly used when paving a surface, and paving stones are individually placed to create pavers. Let’s look into this befuddling mystery so that when you’re on the fence about installing Orlando pavers or solid pavement, you’ll be able to make an educated decision.
Cost Comparison: Concrete is generally less expensive per square foot. On average you may pay 10-15% more for paving stones, unless you upgrade your concrete to stamped concrete–then they’ll likely cost the same. In the long run, repairs and replacement will outweigh concretes initial, affordable cost. On the opposite end of the cost spectrum, Orlando pavers are one of the only hardscaping products that will actually add value to your property.
Installation: Concrete is easy to lay but it takes time to dry. The installation process takes less time than pavers, as each stone needs to be laid individually. Once laid, pavers can be walked, or driven on immediately. They can also be easily readjusted or corrected while concrete readjustments take a lot of time, energy, and money.
Maintenance: Concrete is easy to maintain but if it is damaged or stained it’s a pain to fix. Paving stones also require little care, joint correction may be necessary if a sealer is not used. Plants growing in between joints need to be dealt with, and stones can shift or crack, but stones are easily replaced.
Durability: Concretes longevity is dependent on the Earth’s seismic activity. Changes in temperature can also crack your concrete surfaces, and settling water can weaken its surface. Pavers are 4 times stronger than concrete, as they can handle 4 times as much weight before cracking. Pavers are flexible, capable of distributing weight, and moving harmoniously with the Earths surface. They are also capable of standing strong against harsh weather changes because they expand and contract with the seasons.
Safety: Concrete can be slippery when wet, and landing on concrete does not feel good or affect your body in a positive way. Pavers are much less slick when wet, and since they allow standing water to naturally drain though their cracks, they’re much safer for the environment.
The debate is never ending! When choosing to resurface a walkway or pool deck with Orlando pavers, or concrete, you’ll have to weigh your options, and select the one you feel is best for your construction project. Whether you’re in the market for concrete slabs or pavers, Bedrock Industries has the materials and experience to help you complete your project. Contact us today at (407) 859-1300 for additional information.
407.859.1300
10500 Rocket Court - Orlando, FL 32824
