If you’re planning to transform your outdoor living area, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go with a paver patio or a concrete surface. This choice affects not just the look and feel of your space, but also its long-term value, maintenance needs, and even resale appeal. Homeowners across Folsom are constantly weighing the pros and cons between these two popular materials. If you’ve searched “pavers vs concrete patio” or wondered “are pavers cheaper than concrete,” you’re asking the right questions. This guide is here to walk you through every consideration, so you can make the best decision for your yard, lifestyle, and budget.
Understanding the Basics: What Are Pavers and Concrete?
Before diving into comparisons, it’s helpful to understand what these two materials actually are and how they differ at the most basic level.
What Is a Concrete Patio?
A concrete patio is formed by pouring a mixed slurry of cement, sand, gravel, and water into a framed space. Once poured, the surface can be finished in different ways: broom-textured, stained for color, or stamped to mimic patterns like stone or brick.
What Is a Paver Patio?
Pavers are individual pieces made from concrete, brick, or natural stone. They are installed by hand on top of a compacted gravel and sand base. The individual units lock together to create a solid surface, and joint sand or polymeric sand fills the gaps between them to keep them stable.
Appearance and Design Flexibility
Both pavers and concrete offer visual appeal, but the difference lies in customization and long-term aesthetics.
The Look of Concrete
Concrete patios can be made to look sleek and modern or rustic and textured, depending on how they’re finished. Stamped concrete can imitate the appearance of natural stone or tile, while stained concrete allows for custom coloring. However, the design is permanent. Once it’s poured and cured, changes require demolition and replacement.
The Look of Pavers
Pavers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, textures, and colors. You can create intricate patterns or mix styles for borders and accents. Pavers naturally offer a more upscale and custom look that is hard to replicate with poured concrete. Because each piece is separate, paver patios tend to age more gracefully and are less likely to show wear and tear over time.
Installation Process and Timeline
Understanding what goes into installing each surface can help you manage expectations and avoid surprises.
Installing Concrete
Concrete patios typically take less time to install. The area is framed, the concrete is poured, and it is left to cure. While the process can be completed in one or two days, curing takes several days, during which the surface must be left alone. Weather can delay the pour, especially during hot Folsom summers or during unexpected rain.
Installing Pavers
Installing a paver patio is more labor-intensive. It begins with excavation, followed by laying a gravel and sand base. Each paver is placed by hand and then compacted. Sand is swept into the joints to hold everything in place. This process takes longer but offers precision and flexibility.
Cost Comparison: Are Pavers Cheaper Than Concrete?
This is one of the most common questions among Folsom homeowners.
Upfront Cost
Concrete patios are typically more affordable to install. Basic concrete might cost around $7 to $12 per square foot. Stamped or stained designs might raise the price to $12 to $18 per square foot.
Paver patios might start at $12 per square foot and can climb to $20 or more depending on the complexity of the pattern and the materials chosen. The higher labor cost accounts for the detailed, piece-by-piece installation.
Long-Term Value
Although concrete patios are less expensive upfront, they are more prone to cracking and staining. Repairs can be difficult and often noticeable. In contrast, pavers rarely crack and individual units can be replaced if damaged, saving money over time. While pavers may cost more initially, their durability and ease of maintenance can make them more cost-effective in the long run.
Durability in Folsom’s Climate
Folsom experiences hot, dry summers and occasional winter frosts. These climate conditions affect how patio surfaces perform over time.
Concrete Durability
Concrete expands and contracts with temperature changes. Over time, this can lead to cracking, especially if the soil beneath shifts. Even small cracks can spread and create eyesores or tripping hazards. Regular sealing helps protect the surface but requires maintenance every few years.
Paver Durability
Pavers are built to adapt to ground movement. The individual units can shift slightly without cracking, which is ideal for Folsom’s changing weather. Pavers are also better at draining water naturally between their joints, reducing the risk of pooling or erosion.
Maintenance Requirements
Every outdoor surface requires some level of upkeep, but the difference in effort and cost is worth considering.
Concrete Maintenance
Concrete should be swept regularly and resealed every few years to protect against moisture, UV exposure, and stains. If cracks appear, patching is possible but usually visible. Power washing can restore surface appearance, but deep stains may be permanent.
Paver Maintenance
Pavers require occasional brushing and re-sanding of joints. Weed growth can occur in the joints if left unattended, but sealing the surface helps reduce that issue. Unlike concrete, spot repairs are simple and often unnoticeable.
Safety and Slip Resistance
Both surfaces offer good traction when dry, but wet conditions can create differences.
Concrete can become slippery when wet, especially if it is sealed or finished with a smooth texture. Adding a broom finish or non-slip additive during installation helps.
Pavers generally offer better traction, even when wet. Their textured surfaces and natural joints provide grip, making them safer around pools, outdoor kitchens, and high-traffic areas.
Impact on Home Value
Outdoor living features are increasingly desirable in the Folsom real estate market. While both concrete and pavers can improve property value, pavers tend to offer more visual appeal and longevity, making them more attractive to potential buyers.
A well-designed paver patio may be viewed as a luxury upgrade, while concrete is seen as functional but basic. If resale value is important, pavers are the stronger investment.
Which Option Is Right for Your Outdoor Space?
Choosing between pavers and concrete depends on your budget, design vision, and how you plan to use your patio.
Choose concrete if:
- You need a cost-effective option for a large area
- You prefer a modern or minimalist look
- You are okay with occasional patching and sealing
Choose pavers if:
- You want a high-end appearance
- You expect long-term durability with minimal repairs
- You are planning to resell your home and want added value
Whichever option you choose, professional installation makes a big difference. Poor base preparation, improper drainage, or rushed finishing can shorten the lifespan of your patio and reduce your return on investment.
Final Thoughts
Both pavers and concrete can create a beautiful, functional patio space. The best choice for your home depends on your budget, maintenance preferences, and design goals. In Folsom’s climate, where weather extremes and water-conscious landscaping matter, pavers often provide better long-term value and flexibility. Still, concrete remains a solid option for straightforward, cost-effective patios.
Take time to evaluate your needs and talk to professionals who understand the local environment. A thoughtfully designed and properly installed patio will not only enhance your outdoor lifestyle but also boost the overall appeal and value of your home.
Ready to Build the Perfect Patio for Your Outdoor Space?
Whether you’re leaning toward pavers or considering a sleek concrete design, Progressive Landscapes can help you make the right choice for your Folsom home. Our experienced team specializes in designing and installing patios that fit your lifestyle, your property, and your budget. We take care of every detail—from base prep to finishing touches—so you get a patio that looks great and lasts for years.
Let’s bring your outdoor vision to life with craftsmanship you can count on. Contact Progressive Landscapes today to schedule your free consultation.