If you’re using pavers to build a walkway, patio, or driveway, you have two main material options: natural clay brick and concrete. You use them the same way, and both make for a beautiful and durable surface. However, you’ll want to consider cost, style, and other factors before choosing natural clay brick over concrete or vice versa.
Let’s delve into the differences between the two materials and see which might be better for you.
Material Makeup
Brick pavers come from natural clay. Manufacturers mold the clay into different shapes and then fire it in a hot kiln. The result is a uniquely dense material with inherent color throughout its body. Some products marketed as “brick” are concrete formed into brick-like shapes, so verify the material as you shop.
Concrete pavers are a mixture of cement, gravel, crushed stone aggregates, and color pigments. Workers pour the mixture into molds, then compress and cure it for strength and durability. The molding process is very flexible, so you’ll see pavers in various shapes and sizes.
Appearance
Clay brick pavers make for a classy, timeless look that complements traditional homes well. No two pavers will have the same texture—thanks to the material’s natural irregularities—and their grounding tones can harmonize well with natural landscapes. However, your color options will generally be earth tone variations such as reds, browns, and tans.
With concrete pavers, you’ll have more color options to choose from. Some homeowners select stamped or textured concrete that mimics the natural appearance of stone, wood, or brick.
Durability
Both brick and concrete pavers can last for decades with proper maintenance. The difference lies more in how they wear over time.
Brick pavers’ natural colors resist fading and stains. While clay tends to stay relatively smooth, individual pieces can chip or crack under extreme stress.
Concrete pavers tend to erode gradually rather than chip or crack, and you may eventually notice minor pits, pockmarks, and rough spots. These come about because the erosion exposes aggregates within the concrete. You may need to regularly seal the pavers to both fight wear and keep them appearing vibrant.
Ease of Installation
Ease of installation affects your project’s timeline and how much the project will cost.
Brick pavers take more skill and patience to install, and it often takes a professional to get the job done right. Each paver has slight variations in size from the manufacturing process, so installers need a keen eye to adjust each piece for even spacing and alignment. Cutting the pavers can also be challenging and require specialized tools.
Concrete pavers are easier than brick pavers to install on your own. They have a uniform size and precise edges, and they’re generally easier to cut for fitting around obstacles and making curved edges.
Cost
Brick and concrete pavers are very comparable in cost. According to Angi, brick pavers can cost between $10 and $30 per square foot, while concrete can cost between $10 and $25 per square foot.
You may pay slightly more for brick pavers due to the more expensive, intensive manufacturing process. However, with their durability, you may save more on maintenance over time and get a better return on investment if you decide to sell your home.
On the other hand, if you choose concrete, you may save more after installation since the pavers are easy to repair on your own.
Environmental Impact
More homeowners than ever are eco-conscious, so it’s worth considering the environmental impact of these two materials.
The process of manufacturing concrete is resource-intensive, requiring the extraction of sand and gravel from quarries. It also has a higher carbon footprint, though manufacturers have begun adjusting their processes using recycled aggregates and low-carbon alternatives.
While bricks also involve extracting clay, they generally have a smaller carbon footprint since they don’t require cement manufacturing. Manufacturers can often reclaim and repurpose old bricks to reduce waste and the need for new materials. When the pavers age, their natural composition means they can break down without harmful environmental effects.
Brick or Concrete—Which is Better?
There’s no definitive answer to this question. Brick and concrete pavers differ in style, texture, installation technique, and lifespan.
Clay bricks are better if your goal is a traditional and charming look. Their natural colors and durability make for a timeless patio, walkway, or driveway. Just prepare to pay more for materials and professional installation.
Concrete may be the way to go if you want more flexibility, less cost, or both. Concrete pavers come in numerous shapes and colors, and these pavers’ precise sizing makes a concrete patio easy to plan out and build DIY-style.
FAQs About Brick and Concrete Pavers
How long do brick and concrete pavers last?
Both typically last 20 to 30 years or more with proper installation and care. Bricks may outlast concrete by 10 to 20 years. But degradation eventually necessitates replacing both.
Can I install brick or concrete pavers myself?
Yes, you can install both brick and concrete pavers yourself. However, concrete is easier for DIY due to its uniform sizing and easier cutting. Bricks require more skill to properly space and cut.
Do brick or concrete pavers crack easily?
Bricks are more prone to cracking, chipping, or fracturing when stressed. Concrete tends to erode rather than crack. Sealing both minimizes damage.
Are brick or concrete pavers better for driveways?
Concrete pavers are better for driveways or high-traffic areas. Their durability withstands vehicle loads. Brick can crack under heavy loads.
Are permeable pavers made from brick or concrete?
Permeable systems allowing drainage can use brick or concrete. Open-celled paving grids filled with gravel offer permeability.
Further Information
- How to Lay a Paver Patio (video/article)
- Filling Joints in Paver Patios (video)
- How to Lay Brick Pavers on a Concrete Slab Porch (video)
