Hey everyone! My husband and I are thinking about upgrading our backyard, and we've received a great quote for pouring concrete over the whole space (about 600 sq ft). But as I've been researching, I'm starting to wonder if we should consider a paver patio instead. One of my main concerns is that there are gas and possible sewage lines running underneath. I'm worried that if we pour concrete, it might complicate access to those later. Is this a valid concern? Can anyone share some compelling reasons to choose between concrete and pavers? What about issues like flooding, weeds, and maintenance?
Also, I'm bummed about the idea of concrete cracking over time, especially considering the investment. We live in Colorado, which means we deal with a lot of freeze-thaw cycles and bentonite soil. While I know the upkeep might be lower with concrete, I'm not planning to lay it myself. We're pretty handy with DIY projects, so I think we could handle laying pavers. Let me know your thoughts!
1 Answer
When it comes to your utilities, definitely check the local regulations. If it’s just the laterals for gas and sewer, you might have a little more wiggle room, but building on top of lines is usually a no-go.
As for your choice between pavers and concrete, think about the freeze-thaw cycles in CO. Pavers are easier to fix if they settle or crack—just sprinkle some paver sand in there! Concrete, on the other hand, is tougher to repair; you could end up with big issues if it cracks in the future. You could even consider a flagstone option with permeable infill—it’s eco-friendly and gives you that natural look while still being functional.
That’s a great point about the pavers! I’ve seen them hold up well where I live, especially since they can be fixed easily. Plus, flagstone looks beautiful and allows for drainage! Just something to consider for the aesthetics.