why natural stone and clay brick pavers make more sense than concrete pavers
if you're planning a new patio installation in naperville, plainfield, batavia, geneva, wheaton, downers grove, or lisle, there's a good chance you're weighing your options between natural stone, clay brick, and concrete pavers. while concrete pavers might seem like a convenient choice, they often don't age well—especially in our midwestern climate. over time, they fade, wear unevenly, and start to show their gritty, exposed aggregate. that charming “new patio” look you loved at first? it can disappear in just a few seasons.
on the other hand, natural stone and clay brick pavers hold up beautifully. they’re made by nature—or shaped from earth’s elements—and that kind of authenticity just lasts. clay pavers keep their rich, earthy color for decades, and natural stone weathers like it belongs in your yard (because, well, it kind of does). both options offer a timeless, organic look that pairs perfectly with the vibe of our western suburbs. and the truth is—the labor cost to install them is the same as concrete. so why not start with the best materials?
what happens when concrete pavers start to crumble, stain, or lose their color, is that most of them end up in a landfill. they’re tough to reuse, and even harder to recycle. that means more waste and more environmental impact—just for the sake of short-term savings. it doesn’t make much sense, especially when the alternative is built to last a lifetime.
sustainability is something i care about deeply, both in my personal life and in my landscape designs. using natural stone or clay pavers is one simple but powerful way to keep your project aligned with those values. these materials are either directly from the earth or made in a way that reduces the need for replacement. fewer materials in the landfill, less waste over time, and more beauty in your space—that’s a win all around.
so if you're in the western suburbs of chicago and want to build a patio that's both beautiful and built to last, let’s choose the material that respects your investment and the planet. please reach out if you want more information.