One of the most frequent questions we get asked here at Archadeck of Akron when it comes to patios is should I use concrete or pavers?
Patios make a great outdoor living space for dining, entertaining, and relaxing in the sun. They also make a great outdoor living accompaniment to a custom deck, porch or outdoor fire feature. If you are considering the addition of a patio or hardscape space to your Akron-area backyard chances are you are doing your homework. One quick Google search for patio materials shows you some very different categories and so many diverse opinions on each. Even before you consider a design, you will first want to decide whether you want to use pavers or concrete for your new patio.
As your premier Akron, OH, patio builder, we recommend pavers, but we install stamped concrete as well. There is a saying about concrete that there are two types, the kind that cracks and the kind that is already cracked. We warranty every paver project and pride ourselves on our quality and craftsmanship. Archadeck wants to ensure you have a beautiful patio that will last for many years. Here are three important factors to consider as you begin researching material for your Akron-area patio design.
#1 Patio maintenance and repair
One of the most important factors to consider before making patio material decisions is how the ground shifts here in Ohio. With the extreme hot and cold temperatures in our region, shifting is inevitable and will eventually affect your patio. The good news is some patio materials are easier to repair than others.
Concrete patios and stamped concrete patios have a high risk of cracking. When installing stamped concrete we install control joints at recommended spacing giving the concrete the ability to crack.. These control joints are the saw cuts you see on every driveway and sidewalk. Reinforcing wire mesh is another things that helps prevent cracking and strengths concrete. Pavers may eventually begin to shift over a long period of time. Fortunately, it is easy to relay the section that is beginning to shift. Unfortunately the only real solution to remove a crack in concrete is to replace it. If you’re looking for high quality and good value, Unilock pavers are a great choice.
#2 The truth about pavers and weeds
One common concern we often hear as we begin looking at design ideas with our clients is that weeds will grow between the pavers, making the patio look unkempt. To prevent this, we sweep polymeric sand between the pavers of every Akron patio we build. This sand becomes hard on top which prevents weeds.
#3 Patio price points
Another consideration in your patio material decision is price point. Ultimately it comes down to price, value, and quality. If cost is a determining factor, then concrete will meet that need. The lowest of these price points is concrete. Stamped concrete pricing varies based on color and stamp pattern. Entry level stamped patterns and colors are more cost effective than most pavers. However, stamped concrete is still concrete and you will run the risk of it cracking where you don’t want it to. For this reason concrete projects do not carry the same warranty as pavers. A paver patio, though pricier than concrete, has the ability to flex without breaking since it is made up of smaller pieces. Pavers will last the longest with the least amount of maintenance. Stamped concrete must be sealed every so often. Pavers do not need sealed unless you like the look or have tress that will stain the pavers.
We use high-quality materials and methods in order to ensure an outdoor living space to be enjoyed for years. If you are considering a new hardscape outdoor living project, either pavers or concrete give us a call at (330) 537-6412. We can go more in depth with you about the pros and cons of paver and concrete. You may also reach us via email to schedule your complimentary outdoor living space design consultation.
Patrick Sluss, owner Archadeck of Akron
