Answers · Pavers & Hardscape
Pavers vs concrete patio in Arizona — which should you choose?
Poured concrete is cheaper up front. Pavers are more durable, easier to repair, and add more resale value. Both work in AZ soils — the question is what you're optimizing for.
The honest version: Poured concrete patio: $8–$14/sq ft installed. Will hairline crack in AZ expansive soils within 3–7 years, cosmetic only. Paver patio: $18–$28/sq ft on a proper 2–3" ABC + 1" sand + polymeric base. Individual pavers can be lifted and reset if a tree root pushes one; concrete slabs get patched or ground.
01
Where pavers win
- Repairability — pull one, reset it.
- No expansion cracks; individual units move independently.
- More color, pattern, and border options.
- Higher resale — appraisers weight paver hardscape higher than stamped concrete.
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Where concrete can still win
- Lowest up-front cost.
- Simple, modern flat aesthetic (integral color or exposed aggregate).
- Big open areas with no design detail needed.
FAQ
Common questions.
Not when installed on 2–3" of compacted ABC (aggregate base course) plus 1" of sand with polymeric joints. Quarter minus is not a paver base — that's for turf.
25+ years structurally, but expect visible cracking and joint separation by year 5–10. Sealing and control joints help.
Get a paver patio designed for AZ soils
We build to 2–3" ABC / 1" sand / polymeric spec — the base your patio will thank you for in year 10.
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Why this is an investment, not a cost.
An AE backyard is engineered to add daily livability and long-term home value. We publish honest ranges and build to code with a licensed and bonded Arizona crew. AE provides project-specific workmanship and manufacturer-warranty information in the signed agreement. Website summaries are for planning only.
- Licensed, bonded & insured in Arizona. ROC 340966 (R-62) · ROC 341002 (R-3) · ROC 347738 (KA-5) · ROC 211530 (CR-21). Most Arizona contracting work valued at $1,000 or more — or requiring a permit — must be performed by a properly licensed contractor, subject to statutory exemptions. Verify the legal entity, license status, and classification with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.
- Real ranges, itemized scope. You see materials, finishes, equipment models, and a line-item budget before you sign — not a one-line "pool — $90,000."