Thinking about adding a patio to your backyard? Great move. But now you’re stuck between two popular options: pavers or concrete.
They both get the job done — a solid surface where you can grill, hang out, or relax with your morning coffee. But they’re definitely not created equal.
If you’re in Babylon, New York, and trying to figure out which is right for your home, we’ve got you covered. Let’s break it down.
The Basics: What’s the Difference?
Concrete patios are poured in place. It’s one solid slab, usually gray (unless you upgrade to stamped or stained).
Paver patios are made from individual interlocking stones. You can choose from different shapes, colors, and patterns to create a custom look.
Both are great — but the best one for you depends on your priorities.
Appearance: Do You Want Custom or Simple?
Concrete can look clean and modern, especially if it’s smooth or stamped. But pavers give you far more options when it comes to style.
With pavers, you can:
- Mix colors for a more natural stone look
- Choose custom layouts like herringbone or basketweave
- Add borders and accents for extra detail
If curb appeal is important to you, paver patio installation in Babylon wins in the design department.
Durability: Which One Holds Up Better?
Babylon winters aren’t exactly gentle. Between snow, freezing temps, and summer heat, your patio needs to be tough.
Concrete can crack over time, especially when the ground freezes and thaws. And once it cracks, repairs are noticeable — and not always cheap.
Pavers, on the other hand, are built to flex with the ground. If one stone shifts or cracks, you can replace just that piece. No one will even notice.
Long-term, pavers are the lower-maintenance and longer-lasting choice.
Cost: Which One Is More Affordable?
Concrete is cheaper upfront. A basic concrete patio may run you about $10 to $15 per square foot, while a standard paver patio might cost $18 to $35 per square foot.
But here’s the thing — with pavers, you’re getting a more durable surface that’s easier (and cheaper) to repair later. So while the initial price is higher, the long-term value often balances out.
Want to see how the numbers add up? Check out our full guide to paver patio cost in Babylon, NY.
Installation: Which One’s Faster?
Concrete is faster to install — just pour and wait for it to cure.
Pavers take more time. There’s excavation, base prep, and careful laying of each stone. But that extra time is what gives pavers their strength and custom look.
If you’re curious about how paver installation works, we’ve got a full breakdown of what to expect during the paver patio process.
Repairs: Which One’s Easier to Fix?
This one’s a no-brainer.
- Concrete: Cracks, stains, or shifts? You’re looking at patching or full replacement.
- Pavers: Just pop out the problem stone and replace it. Done.
Plus, since pavers don’t crack the way concrete does, you’ll likely need fewer repairs in the first place.
Extras: What Else Can You Add?
Both types of patios can be paired with nice extras, but pavers are a lot more flexible when it comes to adding:
All of these hardscape features blend seamlessly with a paver patio, giving your outdoor space a cohesive look.
So… Which One’s Better?
If budget is your #1 concern and you need something fast, concrete might work. But if you want a custom, long-lasting patio that adds real value to your home, pavers are hard to beat.
Let’s Build Something That Lasts
At Soft Wind Landscape & Masonry, we specialize in building paver patios that are both beautiful and built to last. We work with homeowners all across Babylon, New York to create custom outdoor spaces that are made for living.
Thinking about more than just a patio? We also offer outdoor kitchens, pergola installations, and full landscape design services to pull it all together.
Let’s bring your backyard ideas to life — one stone at a time.
