Paver Patio or Flagstone Patio?
There are advantages and disadvantages to both
For patios, we recommend either pavers or flagstones. Both materials have tradeoffs to consider as we explain below. With this information, you should be well on your way to knowing whether a paver patio or flagstone patio is best for you.
Pavers
The most popular choice
Pavers are a manufactured stone with a crushed-gravel foundation. The gravel is compacted and a thin layer of sand is applied. The pavers are installed and then polymeric sand is placed between the joints of each stone. This is known as a dry-set patio because there is no concrete in the foundation or between the joints.
The main advantage of a paver patio is that it costs about 40% less than a flagstone patio. Also pavers have more flexibility to absorb the natural fluctuations of the soil beneath the patio. The stones have a uniform color, and it is much easier to replace the joint material if it wears away over time.
The main disadvantage is that pavers sometimes experience a small degree of settling. If this happens, it is easily fixed by removing some pavers to rework the foundation. Also grass and weeds can blow across the surface of a paver patio and take hold between the joints. If so, the root base is shallow and simple to remove.
Flagstones
The second most popular choice
Flagstones are a natural stone with a concrete foundation. The flagstones are installed directly onto this foundation, and then concrete is placed between the joints of each stone. This is known as a wet-set patio because there is concrete below the flagstones and between the joints.
The main advantage of a flagstone patio is that it will not settle. It is also less likely that grass and weeds will take hold between the joints. Another advantage is that flagstones have greater color variation and therefore look more natural.
The main disadvantage is higher cost due to the concrete foundation. Also, the rigidity of the foundation and joint material will resist the natural fluctuations of the soil beneath the patio, which means the joint material will eventually crack. When this occurs, replacing the joint material is more labor-intensive and expensive.
Other Considerations
When recommending a patio material, we account for other factors like your home style and personal design preferences. We also assess whether the ground is level or pitched, and what textures and colors are in the surrounding area. With this information in hand, we are able to guide you to your best solution so you can relax and enjoy your patio with confidence for many years. Check out some photos from our portfolio.