As you stare out across your backyard, take a moment to ask yourself—does your boring concrete patio spark joy? If not, you’ve probably wondered at some point whether it’s possible to simply glue some pavers over the top and call it a day. While this is technically one solution, there are a few things you should know ahead of time.
In some cases, it’s not only possible but also better to glue pavers over concrete. If you’re certain that the concrete won’t crack, using it as a sturdy foundation can prevent the shifting you may experience if you just use sand. However, if you’re looking to improve your backyard design and are willing to invest in a new patio, you may want to consider creating a new, fresh space.
As with any major backyard renovation, deciding whether to tear up your concrete slab patio or simply glue pavers over the top takes a bit of planning. This guide should help you better understand the pros and cons of gluing pavers over concrete and hopefully help you make a final decision.
The Challenge of Removing a Concrete Patio Slab
Before we get too far into the nitty-gritty, it’s important to understand that removing a concrete patio is no small feat. It will likely take a few days, a lot of manual labor, and some specialized equipment to get the job done right.
If you decide to go this route, you’ll need to factor in the cost of renting a jackhammer or similar machinery, as well as the disposal fees for the old concrete. Another challenge you may face is that concrete is often poured around existing pipes and other obstacles in your yard. If you’re not careful, you could end up damaging these lines, which could result in costly repairs.
All in all, removing a concrete patio is a big job. If you’re not up for the challenge, you may want to consider an alternative solution, like gluing pavers over the existing concrete.
Read: 8 Types Of Pavers You Should Know About
When is it Better to Glue Pavers Overtop?
If you’re set on upgrading your patio design but want to avoid the hassle (and expense) of removing the old concrete, gluing pavers over the top is definitely an option. In some cases, it may even be the better option. For example, if your concrete patio is in good condition without any cracks or major damage, you can use it as a sturdy foundation for your new pavers.
This will help prevent shifting and other issues that can occur when you just use sand to level the pavers. Another time when it may be better to glue pavers over concrete is when the existing concrete is too thick to remove without damaging any surrounding pipes or obstacles. In this case, it’s usually best to just leave the concrete in place and build on top of it.
If you’re not sure whether your concrete patio is in good enough condition to support pavers, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional before proceeding. They can take a look at your patio and let you know if it’s strong enough to support the weight of the pavers.
Read: Can Pavers Be Stained A Different Color?
The Benefits of Gluing Pavers onto Concrete
There are a few key benefits that come with gluing pavers over concrete. For example, it’s far less labor-intensive and more affordable than removing a concrete patio. Most homeowners are not skilled enough to operate a jackhammer or heavy machinery and, therefore, end up hiring a contractor to do the work for them. This makes the overall project far more expensive.
Gluing pavers, on the other hand, is relatively simple and most homeowners can do it themselves. All you need is a concrete adhesive and a few basic tools. Gluing pavers over concrete is also a quick way to upgrade your backyard design. You can completely transform your landscape in an afternoon, which is certainly faster than removing the old concrete and pouring a new patio.
Finally, gluing pavers over concrete is a great way to add extra drainage to your patio. If your concrete patio doesn’t have any drainage, you can create it by adding a layer of gravel before gluing the pavers in place. This will help prevent pooling and ensure that water drains away from your home.
Read: How To Keep Pavers From Sinking?
The Disadvantages of Gluing Pavers Over Concrete
While there are some definite advantages to gluing pavers over concrete, there are also a few disadvantages that you should be aware of. First, it’s important to note that this is not a permanent solution. Over time, the pavers will shift and settle, which can cause them to become loose and eventually fall off.
Another downside to gluing pavers over concrete is that it’s not always the most aesthetically pleasing option. In some cases, it can look like you’re just trying to cover up an old, cracked patio. If you’re looking for a more polished look, you may want to consider removing the concrete and starting from scratch.
Finally, gluing pavers over concrete does not always provide the best drainage. If your patio is sloped, water may pool in the low areas and eventually seep into your home. This is why it’s always a good idea to add a layer of gravel before gluing the pavers in place.
If you’re unsure of whether your existing patio could support pavers, it’s best to contact a landscaper. They’ll be able to assess your existing concrete slab and offer a solution to the problem. If they find that your patio is in good enough condition, you can then move forward with laying the pavers.
Read: 3 Simple Ways How To Fix Loose Pavers
The Bottom Line
To sum it up, yes—you can glue pavers directly over concrete. In fact, it’s sometimes the better option compared to tearing up an entire concrete slab. However, be aware that the pavers could shift over time and that you may face drainage issues if you don’t include a layer of gravel. For more advice, contact a landscaping professional today.