Remodeling an outdoor sitting area can cost a small fortune, especially if you’re careless with your budget. However, if you’re trying to strike a balance between aesthetic beauty and financial responsibility, you can achieve a professional-looking patio by investing in high-quality yet affordable pavers. You just have to know which patio pavers are the cheapest.
Compared to natural stone pavers, concrete patio pavers are one of the cheapest yet most versatile options on the market. You can find concrete pavers in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, which means you can create nearly any patio design you can imagine, and—best of all—they are widely available at most home improvement and outdoor supply stores.
Depending on your overall budget, you may prefer concrete, clay, or even porcelain pavers. If you’re unsure of what to buy, continue reading to learn more and discover how much your patio project could cost. This guide will discuss the pros and cons of the 4 cheapest paver options and help you make a final decision.
#1. Concrete Pavers
As far as building materials go, concrete is one of the most affordable yet durable substances in the world. It’s been used for centuries to create everything from bridges to homes, and nowadays, it’s a popular choice for patio pavers thanks to its low-cost ($4-$6 per square foot) and strength (55 MPa or 8,000 PSI).
These pavers are made from a mix of Portland cement, coarse aggregates, such as crushed stone or gravel, and water. Once the concrete mixture is formed, it’s placed into a mold where it will harden and take on the shape of the mold. After it dries, the mold is removed, and the patio paver is ready for installation.
One of the best things about concrete patio pavers is that they come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. You can find square pavers, rectangular pavers, and even pavers that look like natural stone. This means you can create any type of patio design you want without having to spend a fortune.
Additionally, they’re very easy to install. In most cases, you can simply lay them down on a bed of sand and gravel and then tap them into place with a rubber mallet. The only downside is that they can crack over time if they’re not installed properly. This is usually due to improper drainage or soil erosion beneath the pavers.
Overall, concrete pavers are an excellent choice if you’re looking for cheap patio pavers that are still high quality. They’re versatile, easy to install, and they come in a wide variety of colors and sizes.
Read: How To Lay Pavers On Dirt?
#2. Clay Pavers
If you’re looking for cheap patio pavers that have a more natural look, then clay pavers are a good option. These pavers are made from a type of fired clay, which is then formed into the desired shape and size. Once they’re fired in a kiln, they become extremely strong and durable.
Clay pavers are a popular choice for those who want a rustic or old-world look for their patio. They’re also very easy to install, and they don’t require any special tools or equipment. You can simply lay them down on a bed of sand and gravel and then tap them into place with a rubber mallet before applying a bit of joint sand to the cracks.
The only downside to clay pavers is that they’re not as widely available as concrete pavers. They also tend to be a bit more expensive, with most clay pavers costing between $7 and $10 per square foot. Overall, though, clay pavers are a good choice for those who want to save money on their patio but still want a rustic, old-world aesthetic.
Read: How To Clean A Paver Driveway?
#3. Porcelain Pavers
Porcelain may seem like an odd choice for pavers, considering that it’s often classed as a fine China but it is, in fact, one of the most durable building materials in the world. These pavers are made from a type of porcelain clay that is then fired in a kiln at extremely high temperatures. This process gives porcelain pavers their strength and durability.
In fact, they’re often compared to natural stone in terms of strength and durability, but they’re much lighter and easier to install. Porcelain pavers are also a popular choice for those who want a more modern look for their patio. These pavers come in just about any color, shape, or size, allowing you to customize your patio as you see fit.
For a patio made completely from porcelain pavers, expect to spend between $10 and $20 per square foot. This cost includes the price of the pavers as well as the cost of installation. Overall, though, porcelain pavers are a good choice for those who want a modern look for their patio and don’t mind spending a bit more money.
Read: Pavers Vs Concrete – Which Is Better For A Pool Deck?
#4. Rubber Composite Pavers
Rubber composite pavers are a type of paver that is made from a mix of rubber and plastic. These pavers are designed to mimic the look of natural stone, brick, or concrete, but they’re much lighter and easier to install.
Rubber composite pavers are a popular choice for those who want the look of natural stone or brick but don’t want to deal with the heavy weight or the high cost of real stone. These pavers are also quite comfortable to walk on thanks to their shock absorbency.
The only downside to rubber composite pavers is that they look a little cheaper than other materials, even though they’re slightly more expensive at around $7 to $15 per square foot. They’re also not as widely available, which means you may have to special order them.
Read: How Much Does A Paver Patio Add To Home Value?
The Takeaway
Before you spend your budget on high-priced stone pavers, take a step back and consider your options. There are many beautiful and cheap patio pavers that will give your outdoor space the same high-end look without breaking the bank. Concrete, clay, porcelain, and rubber composite pavers are all excellent choices with their own unique benefits that make them a top pick for any patio project.