Concrete pavers are an old friend of many homeowners. Their versatility and durability are famous and staple from the most simple to the most intricate projects. However, a growing trend in hardscape design is the use of porcelain pavers, and the possibilities of its use are growing more and more each day. So how can you compare porcelain pavers vs concrete pavers and make the best possible choice for your design?

They are both excellent choices with very similar characteristics, especially when it comes to durability. But they do have their share of similarities between them. Understanding those similarities is important before reaching a final decision.

Let’s talk about porcelain pavers vs concrete pavers, starting with the advantages and disadvantages of each material.

Concrete Pavers – Advantages

There’s a good reason why concrete pavers are the favorites when it comes to hardscape design. They have proven time and time again that they can be durable and versatile. Bet they have several other advantages worthy of noticing.

Sturdiness

Concrete is one of the most resistant materials there are. Concrete pavers take that resistance and take it to the next level due to their fabrication process. A well-maintained and well-installed concrete paver can last for years, and that is for sure one of its strongest characteristics.

Versatility

Not only are concrete pavers extremely resistant, but they are also extremely versatile due to their interlocking nature. They can work with several different styles and come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes.

Cost

The low cost of concrete is also a big feature. Most importantly, the low cost does not mean you’re paying for a lesser material, on the contrary, concrete pavers are one of the most reliable types of pavers you can get. The low cost is due to the cheap material and the simple manufacturing process.

Installation and Maitenance

The installation of concrete pavers is super simple. Also, in the off chance that you end up damaging your concrete pavers, they are easy to replace. Being such a weather-resistant material, the maintenance of concrete pavers is also extremely simple to do.

Concrete Pavers – Disadvantages

However, not everything is perfect when it comes to concrete pavers. They do in fact have a few limitations and long-term problems.

Longevity

First, the pigments used to give different colors to concrete pavers will fade over time. Also, as resistant as they are, they are not unaffected by erosion. In time they will start to get chipped away and lose their smooth finish. They do last for years, that’s true, but there are some options (like porcelain) that can last even longer.

Sealing

To work properly and last a long time, concrete pavers need to be sealed. They are porous and will absorb humidity, which can cause real damage, especially in the coldest climates. It is imperative that you seal your concrete pavers and re-seal them every year.

Porcelain Pavers – Advantages

Porcelain pavers are growing in popularity for a reason. They are incredibly resistant and easy to maintain, all the while simulating almost perfectly the look of natural stone.

Aesthetic

Porcelain pavers are exquisite in appearance. They bring sophistication to any ambient that they are brought to, both interior and exterior. They are the best option to simulate natural stone without sacrificing the resistance and versatility of man-made material.

Versatility

Porcelain pavers offer a variety of designs, colors, and prints. Even more than concrete pavers. They are made from clay, which is easier to color and shape, so there are a vast array of options in the market.

Resistance

Maybe the most important characteristic of porcelain pavers is their resistance. And not only their physical resistance. Porcelain pavers can withstand the harshest weather conditions, fire, stains, moisture of any kind. They are virtually indestructible, being used even in traffic and industrial sites.

Porcelain Pavers – Disadvantages

Installation

Porcelain is hard to install. It is a very dense material, so cutting it may prove to be a tough challenge. Also, the bedding required for the installation of porcelain pavers must be nothing sure of perfect.

Weight

Porcelain is very very heavy. Moving it around can sometimes be a problem and they will not work for every area of your house. If installed on an elevated surface, a lot of measures must be taken to ensure its stability. If not, there is a risk that they can fall and cause accidents.

Price

All the quality, durability, and elegance of porcelain pavers are reflected in their price. They require a higher upfront investment compared to concrete pavers and other most popular choices. The investment is well worth it, as porcelain pavers can last a lot longer without further investments in maintenance. Even so, the initial price can be a little too much for some homeowners.

How to Make the Best Possible Choice?

When comparing porcelain pavers vs concrete pavers, you’re comparing two very resistant materials with similar applications, but slight differences that can interfere with your choice, especially from a long-term investment perspective.

You won’t have to worry about any of them when it comes to physical damage, but time is a big factor here. In time, concrete pavers will erode and lose their color while porcelain can last for decades without even the slightest discoloration.

Also, in order to compete against porcelain pavers in the resistance category, concrete pavers need to be sealed, as they are porous and will absorb moisture as time goes by.

However, concrete pavers get ahead on the installation aspect, since they are way easier to handle and cut. Porcelain can be tricky, especially on elevated areas where, if not properly secured, they cause accidents.

Once we analyze all the aspects, is clear that porcelain pavers are the winner in almost every aspect aside from the installation process, which is easier with concrete pavers.

For that reason, porcelain pavers are more expensive than concrete ones. That can also be considered a win for concrete pavers, but only in part, since the investment in porcelain pavers has been proving to be worthwhile.

Professionals Can Help You Make the Right Choice

Even though porcelain pavers win the battle from a long-term investment perspective, concrete pavers are cheapest and just as strong, only they don’t last as much and need further investments. Porcelain will also not always be the right choice depending on your installation.

Professionals can help you make the best choice for your project, and here at Eagle Pavers we have the best professionals in the field. We are ready to help you with all the pavers and natural stone needs you might have for your hardscape design.

Contact us through Facebook Chat, our number at +1 941 210 4192 or our email at sales@eaglepaver.us. We’ll be happy to hear from you.