Is imprinted concrete cheaper than paving?
Driveways and patios are frequently constructed with pattern imprinted concrete or block paving throughout Huddersfield. They’re a nice change from the usual concrete or tarmac. But is imprinted concrete cheaper than paving? Then, how do you choose between imprinted concrete and block paved driveways? Also, how can you be sure which one is right for you?
Installing imprinted concrete and block paving
To begin, each driveway choice has a unique set of methods:
Imprinted concrete
Substrate and concrete are placed down first. Then a pattern is imprinted onto the surface when the concrete is still wet to achieve the desired look.
Block paving
A pattern of individual bricks or blocks is placed down. The brick’s colour and substance, as well as the overall pattern’s design, are all up to you.
How are they both after installation?
They are both terrific choices even if we do think that imprinted concrete is better. But there are advantages and disadvantages to each type of driveway. So we’ll take a closer look at the parallels and differences between the two finishes.
Durability
Compared to pattern imprinted concrete, block paving is more long-lasting. But, if the blocks aren’t put correctly, they can begin to expand or loosen over time. Specific blocks may also experience some sinking if a large car is parked for long periods or if there is a high volume of foot activity. However, because of the firm base generated, pattern imprinted concrete does not spread or loosen, but it has a lower overall shelf life.
Installation
When compared to block paving, pattern imprinted concrete has a speedier installation time, which translates into a lower cost. Pattern imprinted concrete can cover a vast area in a short period, whereas block paving requires more time and effort.
Maintenance
Both types of finishes necessitate some upkeep to maintain their durability and appearance. With block paving, the only thing you need to do is clean it and brush it to maintain it at its best. But with imprinted concrete, the maintenance is similar however the sealer must be sprayed every 2-4 years.
Weeds
These annoyances seem to make their way into every crevice! Block paving has a greater probability of this occurring because of the small gaps between each block or brick. Even though these holes are typical, they allow troublesome weeds to sneak their way in. To keep them at bay, all you have to do is regular upkeep. With pattern imprinted concrete, the possibility of weeds is extremely minimal.
Drainage
Drainage block paving is a permeable alternative because it doesn’t require any additional drainage. It’s important to remember that pattern imprinted concrete is a non-permeable alternative, therefore you’ll need to implement drainage solutions. This is critical if you want to stay within the confines of the garden and patio codes already in place.
Aesthetics
This one is down to personal preference. Some people prefer block paving as their choice so they may say this is why it’s more commonly used. But others love intricate designs of stamped concrete that mimic the look of block paving or Indian stones that can be created in a more time-efficient and cost-effective manner.
Repair/access
This means that if access is required or the bricks need to be repaired, the bricks can simply be lifted and replaced. There is little to no downtime, and once the blocks are restored, it looks like it did before. It’s a little more difficult to access the subsurface using pattern imprinted concrete, and the finished product can look a little fragmented. Pattern imprinted concrete is much easier to identify when it needs to be repaired, which can lead some people to have the entire driveway or patio replaced. But this is going to be an extremely costly endeavour.
Conclusion
The price of individual bricks rather than just concrete and colour make block paving more expensive than pattern imprinted concrete. Block paving, on the other hand, is more long-lasting and less expensive to maintain. However although you don’t have to reseal it every 2-4 years, the backbreaking weeding the cracks chores are enough to put anyone off. Regardless of whether you go with block paving or pattern imprinted concrete, you need to hire a paving firm in Huddersfield with a solid reputation and the expertise to complete the work right. But is it imprinted concrete that you’re looking for? Then a quick search for ‘imprinted concrete installers near me‘ and you should find us. You’ll be delighted with the outcome and we’re here to serve you from the beginning to the end. So please contact us so that we may begin planning your ideal exterior as soon as possible!