Porous pavers vs non-porous pavers: a comparison

For anyone that’s either building a house or renovating their yard, paver choice is an important decision to make. In one way, you’ve got a choice in two: porous and non-porous.

Porous pavers are rigid pieces of mesh that cover outdoor surfaces, and allow the natural material, be it grass, gravel or otherwise, to show through. Non-porous pavers could be considered more ‘standard’ – the concrete slabs or bricks that are laid onto the surface in a pattern.

So which is the best option for your yard? Let’s compare the two and see what each one offers.

Installation of non-porous pavers is difficult. While DIY is a possibility, it’s advised that you employ a professional if you want the job done right. Porous pavers, on the other hand, are able to be set in place easily without the need for outside help, making them far quicker and cheaper to install.

Both porous and non-porous pavers are built with longevity in mind, and, if good quality, should last for decades. But there are a few performance factors that should be taken into consideration. Non-porous pavers, particularly brick, can tend to sink into the ground over time due to their smaller surface area. Porous allow water to penetrate the surface of your yard, helping to replenish your property’s water table and feed your garden.

Non-porous pavers will need to be swept and hosed down every now and again to keep them looking their best. Porous pavers, by comparison, are essentially maintenance free. Because they’ll just self-clean when it rains, you can just install and forget them.

This is perhaps the most important factor in choosing a paver. Non-porous pavers come in a variety of colours and styles, and can be matched beautifully to the exterior of your home. Non-porous, meanwhile, don’t really have an aesthetic at all. They simply look like whatever you put them over – grass, gravel or soil. If you’re after a soft landscape, they’re a terrific choice.

So, while porous pavers are cheaper and easier, your final decision will probably come down to your preferred look anyway. Are you after the classic, solid look of concrete pavers, or the light, natural look of porous?

The choice is entirely yours.