When you’re dreaming of that perfect patio, the kind that will make your friends and family say, “Wow I need one of these!”—you’re likely imagining something that is beautiful, durable, and long-lasting. But if you’re like many homeowners we work with, there’s probably one major question you keep coming back to: What materials should I use for my patio? Should you go with the classic look of natural stone (more commonly called flagstone), or are the practical benefits of pavers the way to go? We totally understand. Making the right choice can feel like a big decision—and it’s one that you want to get right the first time. You don’t want to end up with a patio that just doesn’t match the look you had in mind. After all, a patio is an investment in your home—and it’s something you’ll be looking at (and using) for years to come.

Here at Brookside Landscape and Design, we specialize in creating patios that stand the test of time. We understand that every homeowner has their own vision, budget, and concerns. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate this important decision by breaking down the differences between natural stone and pavers, two of the most popular options for patios. Both have their own benefits, and the right choice depends on a few things—like your personal style, how much maintenance you’re willing to do, and how long you want your patio to last.

So, let’s take a look at both options side by side, so you can feel confident that you’re making the right choice for your dream patio.

Natural Stone: Timeless Beauty with a Touch of Nature

What is it?

Natural stone is exactly what it sounds like: stone that’s quarried from the earth and used as-is for landscaping projects. Examples include flagstone, slate, granite, limestone, and bluestone. Each piece of stone is unique, with its own textures, colors, and shapes. If you’re going for a more organic, “natural” look for your patio, this is a great option to consider.

The Benefits:

Unique Look

  1. One of the biggest selling points of natural stone is that no two pieces are the same. Each stone slab has its own color patterns, textures, and shapes, which means your patio will have a one-of-a-kind design. If you’re someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, then you’ll love how each stone’s natural imperfections add character to your outdoor space.

Durability and Longevity

  1. Natural stone patios are built to last. The stone is incredibly strong and able to withstand heavy foot traffic, the elements, and even the occasional spill or dropped item. You won’t have to worry about your patio cracking or fading quickly. In fact, natural stone can last for decades (or even centuries) if properly maintained. It’s a great choice if you want something that will add long-term value to your home.

Low Maintenance

  1. While it’s not completely maintenance-free, natural stone requires relatively little upkeep compared to other materials. The stone itself is resistant to fading, staining, and weathering, which means it’ll maintain its beauty over time with just basic cleaning. Depending on the type of stone you choose, you might need to clean it occasionally to deter moss and weeds, but that’s about it.

Eco-Friendly

  1. Because it’s a natural material, stone is an eco-friendly choice for your patio. You’re using a product that doesn’t require heavy processing or chemicals, making it a more sustainable option compared to synthetic alternatives.

The Drawbacks:

Cost

  1. Let’s face it—natural stone can be expensive. High-quality stone can come with a hefty price tag, which can be a major concern for homeowners who are working within a budget. The labor costs for installing natural stone can also be higher, especially if you’re opting for irregular-shaped stones that need to be custom-fit to the space.

Uneven Surfaces

  1. Because natural stone comes in irregular shapes, which is great for a unique look— it can make installation more complicated. Some stones may have rough edges, or they may be slightly uneven, which can make the surface less smooth than pavers. This means that your patio might not be as comfortable for walking barefoot or placing furniture on, depending on the design.

Installation Time

  1. Because of the complexity of working with natural stone, the installation process may take longer than it would with pavers. While you’re getting a one-of-a-kind look, you’re also getting a potentially longer installation timeline.

Pavers: Versatile, Durable, and Easy to Install

What are they?

Pavers are man-made stones, typically made from concrete that are designed to fit together like a puzzle. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, which gives you a lot of flexibility when it comes to designing your patio. Whether you’re aiming for a more modern, geometric style, or a classic, traditional look, pavers can be customized to suit your needs.

The Benefits:

Affordable

  1. If budget is a concern, pavers tend to be more affordable than natural stone. While they can vary in price depending on the paver you choose, they generally offer a more cost-effective solution without sacrificing too much in terms of aesthetics.

Wide Variety of Options

  1. Pavers come in so many different shapes, sizes, and colors, so you have complete control over the design. Whether you want a sleek, modern look or something more rustic and traditional, pavers can be arranged in a lot of different patterns. This versatility means you can create the exact patio design you’ve been imagining.

Easy to Install and Repair

  1. Compared to natural stone, pavers are much easier to install. Their uniform shapes make it simpler for installers to fit them together, and they don’t require as much customization. Plus, if a paver gets damaged, it’s easy to replace just that one piece.

Durability and Flexibility

  1. Pavers are incredibly durable and resistant to cracking, especially since they are typically installed with polymeric sand between them, allowing them to shift slightly without breaking. This makes them ideal for areas with freeze-thaw cycles or a lot of movement in the ground. Additionally, the gaps between the pavers allow water to drain through, preventing water buildup that could damage your patio.

The Drawbacks:

Susceptible to Weeds

  1. One of the main downsides of pavers is that the gaps between them can allow weeds to grow through. While this is a relatively minor issue, it’s something to keep in mind, especially if you’re not keen on dealing with weeding every now and then. The good news is that there are ways to prevent this, such as using weed-blocking fabric or applying an eco-friendly weed killer.

Color Fading

  1. Over time, some pavers (especially concrete ones) may begin to fade, particularly if they are exposed to a lot of sunlight. The color may not stay as vibrant as it was when the patio was first installed, which could affect the overall appearance of your space. Regular sealing and maintenance can help prevent this from happening too quickly.

Requires Maintenance

  1. While pavers are generally low-maintenance, they do require periodic care. Over time, the polymeric sand between the pavers may erode, and some of the pavers may shift out of place. You’ll need to top off the sand and occasionally realign the pavers to keep your patio looking its best.

So, Which Is Best for Your Patio?

Ultimately, the choice between natural stone and pavers comes down to your personal style, budget, and maintenance preferences.

  • If you’re looking for a unique, elegant, and timeless look, and you don’t mind a higher upfront cost, natural stone could be the perfect fit for you. It’s durable, long-lasting, and adds a natural, beautiful feel to your outdoor space.
  • On the other hand, if you’re working with a budget, want a wider variety of design options, and prefer an easier installation process, pavers could be the way to go. They’re also more adaptable to different ground conditions and can be repaired more easily if needed.

At Brookside Landscape and Design, we’ve seen both options work wonders for homeowners throughout the Kitsap Peninsula. We know that choosing the right material for your patio can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming, but we’re here to help you every step of the way. Whether you go with natural stone or pavers, we’ll work closely with you to design a patio that fits your vision, budget, and lifestyle.

Ready to create the patio of your dreams? Reach out to us today for a consultation! We’ll make sure your outdoor space is everything you’ve been hoping for—and more.