At a glance
| Concrete pavers | Porcelain | Natural stone (bluestone, flagstone) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material cost | Lowest (about $3–$17 per sq ft for material) | Higher (about $15–$20 per sq ft for material) | Varies widely; usually the highest |
| Look | Huge range of colors, shapes and textures | Clean, modern, consistent | Natural variation, classic |
| Heat in the sun | Medium; lighter colors stay cooler | Stays relatively cool, good around pools | Dark bluestone gets hot |
| Stains | Can stain; sealing helps | Very stain resistant | Can stain; sealing recommended |
| Repairs | Lift and reset individual pavers | Replace individual tiles | Reset or replace pieces |
Material-only prices are from a Long Island contractor guide; installation adds labor and base work. These are published market ranges from Long Island contractors' cost guides and national cost sites, not CMC prices. Your number depends on your yard, access and finishes. We give a written quote after a free visit.
Around a pool
Choose a textured, slip-resistant finish whatever the material. Porcelain and light-colored pavers stay cooler underfoot than dark stone. Bullnose coping in a matching or contrasting material finishes the edge.
Long Island winters
Freeze-thaw cycles are hard on any patio that sits on a poor base. Concrete pavers and porcelain rated for exterior use handle winters well when installed on a compacted stone base with proper drainage. Go easy on rock salt, especially on natural stone; sand or a stone-safe de-icer is gentler.
Which should you pick?
- Best value: concrete pavers
- Modern look, cool underfoot, low upkeep: porcelain
- Classic, natural, one of a kind: bluestone or flagstone
We bring samples of each to your house so you can see them in your own light.
Updated November 2026.
