So, the falling temperatures and the excitement of enjoying chilly evenings with your loved ones have finally convinced you to design an outdoor fireplace area. And after all your research, you know Granite pavers and Concrete are the two top materials to consider. But you are still stuck on one question: What is the best material for my soon-to-be favourite spot?
Yes, choosing the right material can be tricky! That’s why we have come up with this post to comprehensively compare both materials and help you make an informed choice. So, take a deep breath and read further! With each point, you will get closer to making the best decision for your outdoor space.
1. Which is More Durable?
When it comes to durability, both materials are considered the top options. However, due to their natural formation, Granite pavers are known for being highly durable. As a natural stone, Granite is very sturdy and can endure harsh weather conditions. They do not get damaged easily, making them perfect for long-term outdoor use.
On the other hand, Concrete is also durable, but it cannot match the natural strength of Granite. It is prone to cracking and chipping, especially in areas with fluctuating temperatures. Over time, this can lead to expensive repairs or replacements.
So, Granite is the clear winner here in terms of durability.
2. Which Looks More Aesthetic?
Your fireplace is just not the place to get warm in the wintry weather. If designed creatively, it can be the centre of attention for your outdoor area. Granite can enhance the beauty of this space with its natural colours and patterns. Especially the grey and black Granite pavers can make any area look extremely sophisticated. They are perfect to create a natural, elegant and modern look in your outdoor fireplace.
Concrete, which is a human-made building material, also looks very graceful. However, it lacks the natural and premium vibe. It can mimic the colours, shades and style of Granite, but the originality feels missing.
If aesthetics really matters to you, Granite is the right choice for your outdoor fireplace.
3. Which is Easier to Maintain?
Just like other natural stone materials, Granite pavers are also very easy to maintain. They do not get easily affected by stains and scratches. You only need to do routine cleaning and occasional mopping with a pH-neutral cleanser to maintain their beauty for ages.
Concrete, however, can cause you a little pain while cleaning it because this material absorbs stains and spills easily. It can easily get chipped and needs regular sealing.
4. Which Option is Heat-Resistant?
Your outdoor fireplace surrounds will have to deal with very high temperatures. So, make sure you choose the material that can endure the fire without affecting its charm.
Granite pavers have the natural ability to remain unaffected by flames. They absorb less heat and prevent the space from overheating. This character makes them a safe choice for your fireplace area.
Concrete can also resist heat but may get weak in extreme conditions. You can use it in areas where your floor does not have to deal with high degrees.
5. Which Material Saves More Cost?
Granite, being one of the most premium natural stones, comes at an expensive price point. In contrast, Concrete is often chosen for its lower upfront cost. It is affordable and widely available in the Australian market. If you are on a tight budget, Concrete can be the right choice.
However, Granite pavers are a great investment in the long run. They may cost more initially, but their unmatched beauty, high durability, easy maintenance and other natural features make them more cost-effective. Plus, they rarely face any repairs or replacements, which leads you to save money over time.
So, we can say that Granite is value for money, whereas Concrete is a good choice for homeowners who cannot spend much in the beginning. So, Concrete may save you now, but Granite saves you later.
6. Which One is More Environmentally Friendly?
Granite is ethically sourced from quarries and it does not require harsh chemicals to clean. Concrete, on the other hand, is a human-made product. It has a higher carbon footprint due to the energy-intensive process of producing cement. So, comparatively, Granite has less environmental impact.
7. Granite Pavers or Concrete: Which Material is Best for Your Outdoor Fireplace Area?
After considering all the factors, be it durability, aesthetics, maintenance, heat resistance and sustainability, Granite pavers are winning. They are both strong and stylish, making them the perfect choice for your fireplace surrounds.
Nevertheless, Concrete also has its advantages, especially if you are on a tight budget. But, as mentioned before, if you desire to have an elegant, long-lasting and easy-to-maintain material for your outdoor fireplace, Granite is the ideal choice.
Also Read: DIY Guide to Perfectly Laid Granite Pavers
At Last
We have listed all the major questions you need to evaluate the pros and cons of both options. But since the final decision is yours, we will leave it in your hands. So, take your time, understand what matters most to you and choose what best suits your personality and your favourite fireplace area.
