When you are choosing materials for your new outdoor living space, you will probably have questions about natural stone vs. concrete paving stones. Both have their pros and cons and ideal applications. Here’s when to use concrete paving vs. natural stones in Bergen County, NJ.
Related: CHOOSING THE RIGHT COLOR AND STYLE FOR YOUR PATIO PAVERS IN ORANGE COUNTY NY
1. Unique Character
Natural stone is the clear winner when it comes to character because no two stones are ever alike. An outdoor space paved with natural stone will turn heads! Today’s concrete pavers can mimic the look of natural stone but upon close inspection you can see the differences. There are two ways to achieve an authentic stone look if you want the convenience of concrete. One is to purchase higher-end concrete pavers. The other is to mix 2-3 different colors within a particular product onsite for a more random natural look that’s filled with character.
While character is important, natural stone is best used for patios and walkways. It may not be durable enough in large formats for driveway use, and it may become slippery when wet, which makes it less than ideal for pool decks or hot tub surrounds. Concrete pavers can be used anywhere.
2. Underfoot Comfort
When it comes to barefoot comfort on hot days and a secure non-slip surface, concrete pavers win. Installing lighter-colored natural stone such as sandstone is an easy fix on sunny areas. However, quality concrete pavers tend to have better slip-proof finishes and concrete won’t spall.
Always do the “dog paw test” if you are drawn to darker-colored pavers for use in places where people and pets will be barefoot. Hold your hand (or your bare foot) on the surface for 10 seconds on a hot, sunny day. If it is too hot for you to keep your hand or foot on it for 10 seconds, then it is not a great material to use.
3. Easy Maintenance
Neither concrete pavers or natural paving stones require much maintenance. Regular sweeping, occasional power washing, replacing eroded jointing sand, and cleaning up spills will keep the surface looking great. Natural stone must be sealed, especially if you’re using sandstone which is prone to spalling. Some concrete pavers don’t require sealing, but it’s a good idea anyway to maintain the color and protect the surface.
For higher maintenance areas like pools (where chemicals can cause etching or staining) or driveways (with oil spills), both stone and concrete will need regular cleaning and sealing.
4. Durability
Natural stone is of course the original building material. 2,000 year old Roman roads and walls are still in use today. Natural stone develops a patina and grows more beautiful with time. However, certain types, like sandstone, can spall if not sealed, which allows moisture penetration and eventual degradation. Concrete pavers won’t last as long as natural stone but will last long enough for you to enjoy a lifetime on your patio.
The disadvantages of concrete pavers is that if something drops on them and the surface is chipped, the aggregate beneath the surface will show; it’s unattractive and the paver will need to be replaced. They are also prone to fading. Regular sealing and choosing high-quality concrete pavers can mitigate this to some extent.
Both natural paving stones and concrete pavers are suitable for driveways, but only in smaller formats that can support vehicular loads.
5. Design Choices
Natural stones have amazing character, but there are limitations when it comes to sizes, colors, and finishes. There’s also the challenge of matching stones for future additions. Concrete pavers offer significantly greater design choices overall, including colors and patterns not found in nature which is a great option for modernist or industrial-inspired homes.
Related: WHY CHOOSE A STONE SUPPLY THAT OFFERS UNLIMITED VARIATION NEAR SUSSEX COUNTY, NJ
