Both concrete and pavers make solid, long-lasting patios — but they behave differently over time, and the right choice usually comes down to budget, look, and how you feel about maintenance.
Cost
A poured concrete patio typically runs $8–$14 per square foot installed, similar to a driveway. Pavers usually cost more, in the $15–$25 per square foot range, because of the additional labor to lay each unit individually over a properly prepared base.
Durability and repair
This is where the two materials really diverge. Concrete is a single continuous slab — durable, but if it cracks from ground movement or freeze-thaw cycles, the crack is visible and typically requires patching or replacing the whole slab for a clean look. Pavers are individual units set in sand or gravel; if one shifts, cracks, or stains, it can simply be popped out and replaced without disturbing the rest of the patio. For a property with any history of ground movement, that repairability is a real advantage.
Look and customization
Poured concrete can be finished plain, broom-textured, stamped to mimic stone, or colored — but it's still one continuous surface. Pavers naturally come in more shapes, colors, and patterns, and can be arranged in ways that are hard to replicate with poured concrete, which is part of why they're popular for more decorative patio designs.
Winter performance
Both materials handle St. Louis winters reasonably well when installed correctly, but pavers have a slight edge here too — their joints allow for a small amount of natural movement during freeze-thaw cycles, which is part of why individual units are less likely to crack outright compared to a solid slab.
Which one to choose
- Choose concrete if budget is the priority and you're comfortable with a clean, simple look.
- Choose pavers if you want more design flexibility and easier long-term repairs, and don't mind paying more upfront.
Not sure which fits your yard and budget? Get a free quote and we'll walk you through both options on-site.