Walkways lead us from one location to the other. It could take us from a building to a street or driveway or vice versa. Therefore, a walkway is an integral pavement for every building construction. There are several types of walkways made from different materials. Each material adds aesthetic value and functionality to the property.
There are several materials that are used to make these walkways. They include brick, stone, flagstone, and concrete. Each of these is an excellent choice, but the two most common types are flagstone and concrete. Whether you are constructing a modern building or you recently bought a historical property, you need to know which of the two types would suit your project better.
The contractor you choose for this architectural pavement design must be meticulous in helping you make a choice. For this reason, you need to make a good choice of a competent contractor. If you need help on how to do this, visit this direct URL for help.
Apart from choosing a good and competent contractor, you also need to know what flagstone and concrete walkways are, certain factors that can help you make a choice, and the benefits of choosing each of them. This article will discuss each of these points.
What are Flagstone and Concrete Walkways?
A flagstone walkway is a uniquely designed pavement made from a 100% natural stone with different color combinations and shapes. It offers flexibility to designers and contractors. It also has a natural, earthy color that easily blends in with the environment.
Concrete pavement also comes in several sizes and shapes. It is designed by interlocking the concrete pavers. This is done after much grading and leveling are done on the floor. It makes the walkway very durable and long-lasting. It also makes it replaceable if or when the pavement gets damaged.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Flagstone and Concrete Walkways
Although both walkways can fit historical properties, there are still certain factors that differentiate them. Here are some of them:
Cost
When it comes to cost, flagstone is more expensive than concrete pavers. This is because it is about 2 inches thicker than concrete or other materials. Because of its thickness, it cost more.
Also, installing the flagstone takes time and requires more labor than other materials. It is quite difficult to draft a layout plan for the paver before buying the stones. This is because you might not know the exact shape or size that will be delivered. When designing it, each stone must be arranged according to their sizes and color. The contractor you hire might end up changing the design layout several times to achieve the right look. If you would like to know how to install flagstone, watch this video.
Weight
Flagstones are heavier when compared with concrete pavers. They can come in different sizes, ranging from gigantic slabs to cobblestone sizes, and they weigh a lot. If you go for these, your contractor would need extra manpower or use machines that can carry the slabs into place.
Quality
Both concrete and flagstone are good quality materials that can last very long. However, if you want a thicker and more durable paver that can last for years without replacement, you can go for the flagstone. The concrete might break, due to unforeseen circumstances, but it is more easily replaceable than its counterpart.
Installation Process
What makes flagstone flexible is that you can mix it with other materials, including concrete. It adds to the aesthetic value and beauty of the walkway.
Benefits of Choosing Flagstone Walkway
So what are some benefits of choosing this material? Here are some of them:
It Has a Natural Look
Unlike other synthetic materials, these rocks have a natural look. No two rocks or slabs look the same. Each is special, having its shape, markings, and color. It matches the aesthetics of any environment. You can grow natural plants in between the slabs to improve the appearance of the walkway. For other ways to improve the appearance of a walkway, check here: https://www.thespruce.com/
It is Easy to Maintain
When compared with other types, the appearance of these stones doesn’t wear or tear. It only requires occasional sweeping and a bi-annual pressure wash to maintain its beautiful appearance.
It is Durable
These work well in different climates, including severe weather like snow or heavy rain. It takes time for the solid rock to fade in color or begin to break. Your walkway would certainly last for several years no matter the amount of pressure that it undergoes.
You Get a Variety of Choice
There are several ways to design flagstone pavement. There are also several colors and patterns to follow for this walkway. You can choose to go for a formal or fun-shaped pattern.
It is More Practical
In terms of pavement safety, flagstone is superior to other materials. It has a non-slippery surface so it is safe for places that have a lot of rainfall. The ridges that are in between each stone slab help water to pass through after serious rain.
Also, the natural and disconnected look of this material makes the walkway appear wider than it is.
Benefits of Choosing Concrete Walkway
Now, let’s discuss some benefits of a concrete walkway:
It is Affordable
A concrete walkway is very cheap when compared with other materials. If you just bought a historical building and do not want to spend money, this material is your best option. It is cost-effective as you get quality at an affordable price. It is also one of the few walkways that will not affect your budget, making it worth getting.
It is Durable
When you hire a contractor for walkway construction, you expect that it would last for many years. If you decide to go for the concrete pavement, rest assured that it will last for a long time. The durability of this material is what endears it to many. Plus, it is also replaceable, unlike other walkways.
It Requires Low Maintenance
Like flagstone, this material requires little maintenance. You can clean it with a leaf pressure blower or soft broom during warmer months. During the winter period, you can use a snowplow or shovel to clean it. When compared with other pavers like gravel, concrete is easier to maintain. Gravel paths sometimes need to be cleaned with hands during autumn seasons and you will find it hard to shovel in the winter period.
It Can Fit Any Size Of Walk Area
The beauty of concrete is that it can be shaped to suit your needs. You can create whatever shape you like with the cement. This makes it the most versatile pavement material at an affordable price.
It Aids Mobility
If you have a lot of older visitors to your historical property, concrete is one of the best walkways for them. It has a non-slippery surface and there are no cracks or gaps in between after installment. This can not be said for other pavement with gravel or wood chips. These are uneven and could cause serious tripping accidents for those with mobility problems. Also, their upkeep is a challenge for many people.
It Will Protect the Property’s Foundation
Concrete pavement can be installed near the foundation of a property to shield it against erosion. What causes structural issues in a house is water leaking into the foundation. This happens after several heavy downpour or snowstorms. By installing this pavement around the property, you allow water to drain easily without seeping into the foundation and causing structural damages.
You Can Change Color at Will
You have the liberty to use a different color of concrete that suits your preference. Even when you already have a walkway with a particular color scheme, you will always find that same color scheme for concrete.
Flagstone Vs Concrete Walkways – Which is Better?
The choice solely depends on you and your budget. If you want something affordable, flexible, and durable, you can choose the concrete walkway. But if you want something thicker, easy to maintain, and a more natural look, go for flagstone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both materials can make a really fine and durable walkway for historical properties. But you will need to make a choice at the end. Keep in mind the factors as well as the benefits of each pavement as you make an informed choice.
