Gravel vs Pavers: Pros and Cons
Two of the most popular options for driveways, walkways, and patios are gravel and concrete pavers. Although they are incredibly different, they both offer solutions to the same problems. If you are debating gravel vs pavers, we’ve gathered a list of pros and cons to help you out.
Gravel
Gravel, simply put, is loose rocks and stones laid out as a surface material. Gravel comes in many different sizes and compositions. From crushed stone to recycled concrete aggregate, there’s more to gravel than most people might think.
Pros
- Because it is a raw material, gravel is incredibly cost efficient compared to other options.
- Gravel doesn’t require repairs, making it low maintenance. Simply rake your gravel to smooth out any divots that have formed.
- Water can easily travel between the crushed stone or concrete that makes up your gravel. This is great if you live in an area prone to storms or flooding.
Cons
- To keep gravel looking its best, it requires more maintenance than other options. You’ll have to rake it often to keep it looking smooth and to make sure it is covering the ground evenly.
- If you are using gravel for a driveway or walkway, that excessive traffic can kick up dirt, dust, and even mud.
- For patios and walkways, gravel can be extremely difficult to navigate with anything with wheels such as strollers, wheelchairs, wheelbarrows, and portable grills.
- Depending on the size of the gravel, it can become trapped in shoes or tires, tracking it where you don’t want it.
- Loose gravel can damage your patio or even your floors inside if tracked around.
- If gravel makes it into your yard and someone is mowing and hits a stone, it can become a high speed projectile, bringing harm to you or your property.
- If you have pets or young children around, you may also have to worry about gravel becoming a choking hazard for them.
Pavers
Pavers, often made of concrete, can come in a variety of colors and sizes to fit the needs of their space. From indoor use to outdoor use- from driveways to patios- pavers are extremely versatile.
Pros
- Concrete is one of the most durable building materials on the planet. When installed properly, concrete pavers can last a lifetime.
- Once they are installed, pavers require very little maintenance.
- If one paver becomes damaged, it is easy to replace without disturbing the surrounding area.
- With today’s techniques, concrete pavers can replicate the look of real stone.
- You can choose any color and style you want to compliment your home.
- They are perfect for backyards and around pools because concrete pavers are slip and skid resistant.
- When installed properly, they allow for good drainage.
- Because they are both beautiful and functional, adding concrete pavers to your hardscaping can increase your property value.
Cons
- When compared to gravel, concrete pavers have a high upfront cost.
- Concrete can be prone to chips and cracks.
- Unlike gravel, concrete pavers are not something homeowners should install themselves.
If you’re ready to add beauty and function to your outdoor spaces, request a quote today!
