Most homeowners in Fredericton intuitively grasp that concrete and paver walkways differ in appearance. But their distinctions go deeper – from the materials applied to the processes followed and costs incurred to lay them. This article provides a high-level look at the key divergences between poured concrete and paver walkways that transcend mere aesthetics. By comprehending where they vary in elements like messiness of installation, ease of repairs and permeability, you can choose the surface best suiting your lifestyle and landscape.
Poured concrete is mixed on-site and laid down as a viscous liquid into wooden or metal forms delineating the shape and boundaries of the walkway. As it cures and dries and over subsequent days, it hardens into a strong, solid surface.
This process creates a walkway much like a solid slab of pavement without any divisions or lines between individual parts. Since poured concrete results in a continuous, uninterrupted surface, it offers a seamless aesthetic once fully cured. The monolithic appearance can be enhanced with exposed aggregate or a brushed or stamped finish applied while still wet.
By contrast, paver walkways are constructed piece by piece using pre-made walkway blocks known as pavers. These small modular elements come in a variety of materials such as concrete, clay, stone or granite.
Pavers are available in different shapes, thicknesses and colors to allow for customizable designs. Rather than pouring a single layer, individual dry-laid pavers are carefully positioned and laid out one by one to form the walkway. This maintains definition and borders between each paver block. The assembled walkway therefore has a more sectional appearance rather than a seamless look. Homeowners wanting definition or able to accommodate a modular structure typically prefer the aesthetic and design flexibility of a paver walkway.
There are several factors you will want to evaluate when choosing between these two popular walkway materials. Cost, durability, maintenance requirements, and aesthetics are all important considerations. Comparing pavers vs concrete walkways based on installation process, longevity, repair ease, and design flexibility will help you select the best option suited to your budget and desired look and function. Understanding the pros and cons of each material upfront eliminates uncertainty in future.
The installation process for concrete versus pavers is notably different, which impacts the time and labor involved. Knowing what to expect can help determine feasibility and budget for your project.
Poured concrete walkway installation begins by setting forms or edges along the outline of the new walkway area. Gravel and wire mesh reinforcement go down followed by wet concrete which is then screeded or smoothed to the proper depth and grade. contraction control joints are cut, and then the surface gets a final broom or aggregate exposure finish before curing. The curing phase typically takes about a week before the concrete can be walked on.
Laying a paver walkway first requires preparing a compacted gravel base layer. Then edge restraints, such as plastic or concrete, are installed along the perimeter. Pavers are laid out starting at one corner or edge according to the desired pattern, working row by row. Gaps between pavers are filled with polymeric sand which works into the joints through vibration. Edging or latticework may be added for decorative accents.Which
Cost will play a key role in choosing between poured concrete or paver walkways. Consider both initial installation expenses and long-term maintenance costs.
Poured concrete typically has a lower initial cost for large areas compared to pavers. Installation prices for pavers can vary widely depending on the material, with natural stone options usually having a higher square foot cost than other materials.
Both options require periodic upkeep like occasional cleaning, sealing, or re-sealing. Pavers may also need more repairs since individual units can crack or pop out more easily than a continuous concrete slab. Replacing broken or faded pavers further increases long-term costs over repairs to a concrete surface.
While concrete has a lower upfront price, pavers could prove more cost-effective long-term thanks to modular repairs without full replacement. Especially natural stone pavers, which withstand wear well and retain resale value. With proper care, the lifespan of both materials is decades, so initial costs aren’t the only financial factor. Paver longevity may offset their higher installation expenses.
How long poured concrete and paver walkways withstand weathering in Fredericton, wear and tear greatly impacts their lifespan and value. Understanding each material’s durability signatures helps set realistic service expectations.
Poured concrete offers excellent durability when properly mixed and installed. It strongly resists cracking from temperature changes, is not susceptible to insect damage, and stands up against sun exposure without fading. Proper isolation joints and strong subgrade preparation promote a long-wearing concrete surface. Curing plays a role, too – faster-curing formulations last longer than traditional mixtures.
Quality concrete or natural stone pavers also demonstrate durability, standing up to foot traffic, sun, freeze-thaw cycles and more. Heavier pavers like flagstone withstand weight better than lighter options.
Correct installation with a sturdy base and edging prevents heaving or misalignment from frost. Like concrete, the hardiness of individual pavers relies on cure time, materials used and fabrication process employed.
Both paved walkway types can easily withstand 15-25+ years of use with care. But pavers may edge out concrete slightly in longevity thanks to their modular build. While a cracked concrete slab means replacement, pavers allow for spot repairs by swapping in a new unit. This prolongs the usability of the overall surface and makes complete replacement unnecessary for much longer than a joint poured slab.
Any exterior surface demands periodic upkeep. Knowing what’s involved helps budget time and money for maintenance over the long haul.
Concrete must be resealed every few years, more frequently in harsh climates, to prevent cracks and stains from weathering. Factors like rain, snow, salt and sun can degrade the concrete’s surface over time if unprotected.
Resealing is also needed when mildew or effects of de-icing salt become visible, as these can damage the concrete pores. For areas exhibiting wear through cracks or holes, repairs with patching or overlay materials are required before resealing. Regular sealing helps preserve the concrete and shield it from environmental elements that can cause premature deterioration.
Routine paver maintenance is important. Basic grooming like regular sweeping keeps joints filled. Periodically weeding cracks and topping off joints with polymeric sand prevents shifting or sinking. Single paver replacement occurs as needed to maintain an intact, flat walking surface over the long term. Regular upkeep preserves the pavement’s appearance and functionality.
Paver repair convenience gives them an edge long-term. Loose or broken concrete requires jack hammering out whole sections for patching. But lifting a single failed paver exposes the base for extraction and replacement with a new unit. This targeted healing means less work disruption and fuller walkway lifespan over recurrent small fixes versus a complete concrete redo.
The look of the walkway matters for an area you’ll use every day. Customizing its appearance for your landscaping project adds creative possibilities.
While simple concrete works, stamped or stained options emulate other materials like flagstone or wood through texture and pigment. Patterns add artistic expression, and colors range from solid to blended hues.
pavers offer maximum adaptability with varied shapes, sizes and textures. Mixing types builds visual interest. Crafting geometric or free form designs also easily personalizes the space.
Though concrete expands its appearance through color and texture, pavers provide ultimate personalization from extensive mix-and-matching options. Uniquely cut or colored stones create unique one-of-a-kind designs, favoring pavers for those seeking stand-out flair. Their placements opens creative design choices limited only by the imagination.
The five most important factors when considering poured concrete or paver for your hardscape project to weigh are:
Installation process – concrete is quicker but pavers allow piece-by-piece customization.
Upfront costs – concrete tends to be more affordable initially than premium paver options.
Durability – both last decades when installed correctly, but pavers enable independent repairs.
Maintenance requirements – pavers need periodic cleaning; concrete requires resealing.
Design flexibility – pavers provide ultimate personalization through mixing shapes and hues.
Thoroughly considering your priorities for budget, aesthetics and long-term care will lead you toward the optimal paved walking surface for your home and lifestyle. With poured concrete’s affordability and pavers’ superior custom work, both remain popular choices in Fredericton.
Whether you’re considering poured concrete or paver walkways for your home, Atlantic Hardscape and Concrete is an excellent local resource to speak with. As one of the top rated landscaping companies in Fredericton, we have extensive experience installing both concrete and paver walkways to suit different needs. We can evaluate the space for your walkway and recommend the most suitable material based on your requirements, preferences, budget and site characteristics.
Atlantic Hardscape encourages homeowners to discuss their project details in order to provide a customized design and get project estimate. Our team can visit your property to understand your vision and needs, then develop a plan for installing a high quality, durable walkway done right. Speak to the professionals at Atlantic Hardscape and Concrete to take the next step towards enhancing your outdoor space.
Natural stone pavers are typically a better choice than concrete for areas surrounding a pool. Pavers provide safer and more slip-resistant drainage around wet areas compared to smooth concrete. They are also easier to repair or replace individual stones as needed rather than replacing entire sections of concrete.
It depends on their installation and a few factors. Properly installed with an adequate subbase and joints, concrete pavers flex sufficiently to avoid cracking. Skimping on subbase preparation or leaving small cut pavers can increase stress and risk of cracks.
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