What Are the Downsides of Pavers in Covington?

Written by Big Easy Paver Patios

Key Takeaways

The main downsides of pavers are a higher upfront cost than plain concrete, joints that need upkeep, and settling when the base is built poorly.
Concrete pavers can show a temporary white haze called efflorescence, and their surface color can soften as it weathers.
Permeable pavers cost more to build than standard paving, clog over time without vacuum sweeping, and their open joints are harder on heels, wheels, and walkers.
Under Covington’s pines and oaks, needles and pollen make joint care and cleaning a bigger part of ownership.
Weighing pavers for a Covington project? Call Big Easy Paver Patios at (504) 688-4244.

What Are the Downsides of Using Pavers?

Quick Answer: Pavers usually cost more to install than a plain concrete slab, and the joints between them need occasional care to keep sand in and weeds out. If the base underneath is thin or poorly compacted, pavers can sink and shift, which shows up as dips and uneven edges.

We build pavers for a living, and we’d still rather you hear the drawbacks from us before you sign anything. In Covington, where tall pines and live oaks shade a lot of yards, a few of these downsides matter more than they would on an open lot.

None of them is a dealbreaker for most homeowners. Each one is easier to live with when you know about it up front and plan for it.

Why Do Pavers Cost More Than Concrete Up Front?

A concrete slab is formed, poured, and finished in one go. A paver surface needs the same excavation and stone base, then every unit is set by hand, cut at the edges, and locked with an edge restraint. That extra labor is why a paver patio usually costs more on install day.

The tradeoff shows up later. When soft ground moves under a slab, the slab cracks and patches rarely match. When it moves under pavers, we lift the affected section, fix the base, and re