So, you have decided to add a paver in your driveway. And you might be thinking about what could complement the design of your house the best. A paver is a flat, thin stone used for paving driveways, walkways, patios, or any outdoor space in your home. Choosing which type of paver is a struggle. Both brick pavers and concrete pavers share almost all similarities; there would still be differences.

If you still can’t decide, this blog is for you! This has everything you need to know to help you weigh your decision between brick and concrete.

What are Brick Pavers?

They are made from clay, which is shaped and baked in a kiln. Brick paving is designed for the ground; thus, it’s different from the ones installed for walls and chimneys. When shopping for this, make sure to clear out things with the salesperson; some people mistake “concrete bricks” as “brick pavers.” So, it would be best to look for clay brick pavers specifically.


Photo from Des Home Renovations

Pros and Cons of Brick Pavers

Here are some pros and cons of installing brick pavers on your driveway, patios, or any outdoor space! And if any of these suit your taste, maybe you should go for it!

Pros

  • Durability: Chips and cracks between bricks are inevitable; however, this does not fade away the fact that brick is a highly durable material. Generations can continue, but brick can retain its beauty. While it has proven durable quality, still make sure to keep it away from moisture, traffic, or ice to prevent chips.
  • Color retention: Bricks can maintain their color since they are made of mixing different types of clay. Color retains even when exposed to sunlight.
  • Classic design: Bricks age like a fine wine; they would still look outstanding even with cracks and chips. Even a 10-year-old brick paver driveway won’t still appear worn out. You may also use a sealer to retain the appearance of the brick; a siloxane-based sealer would be enough.
  • Environmentally friendly: Bricks are made from natural resources; therefore, they can be reused and recycled. There is also a market for recycled brick pavers if ever replacing the surface enters your mind!
  • Low maintenance: Paver Brick is your most durable option since clay bricks are highly resistant to stains, so you can spend less time and money maintaining brick pavers.

Cons

  • Cost: If you are happy with bricks, you should know that they would be 15% to 20% more expensive than concrete pavers.
  • Limited selection: There are limited design options for bricks since they’re made with natural clays.
  • Tricky installation: Brick paver installation is a real struggle since the laborer finds bricks hard to cut due to a variation in size and dimensions. 

What are Concrete Pavers?

Often referred to as paving stones. Cement and air-cured. That’s how concrete pavers are made. They offer a wide variety of shapes and a variety of hues, making them a convenient option. 


Photo from Techo Blog

Pros and Cons of Concrete Pavers

This list of pros and cons will make you think if concrete pavers are the most suitable choice for you.

Pros

  • Variety of options: It has a never-ending number of styles. You would be able to choose from different colors and designs, allowing you to explore different patterns for your patio, walkway, or driveway.
  • Affordable: It’s a less expensive choice for your patio or walkway due to the lower cost of raw materials used. Repairs also do not cost much, since you’ll just replace damaged parts with new ones.
  • Weather resistance: Concrete pavers have a naturally slip-resistant surface due to their rough surface. Which means even an earthquake won’t leave an impact.

Cons

  • Requires sealing: Concrete pavers need more maintenance than bricks because you may have to use a sealant to retain the colors.
  • Color quickly fades: Unlike bricks that are naturally colored, the color of concrete can easily fade. Avoid exposing them to too much sunlight so the color would last longer.
  • Surface erosion: Bricks give off a timeless look, even after many years. However, concrete pavers tend to erode, making them look worn out years later after being installed.

Ask a professional for advice.

It’s tough to decide, especially if it’s a home improvement project; that’s why experts will be there to guide you throughout the process. You can ask a professional masonry contractor which paver would complement the design of your home perfectly. Further, they have enough job knowledge and expertise, guaranteeing a high-quality outcome.

They would also be able to give you recommendations and tips on how you can maintain your beautiful patio, walkway, or driveway. Call an expert and ask for a quote now!

Read More: How to Repair Cracked Brick Pavers