Concrete vs Pavers for Alfrescos: Perth Homeowner Comparison (2026 Guide)

Alfresco areas in Perth are exposed to:

• Intense summer heat
• UV exposure year-round
• Winter rain and runoff
• Soil movement in sandy and reactive areas
• BBQs, outdoor kitchens and entertaining

The wrong flooring choice can lead to movement, uneven surfaces, weed growth or excessive heat retention.

Concrete remains one of the most popular choices for modern Perth alfresco areas due to its durability and design flexibility.

✅ Key Benefits of Concrete

Seamless appearance

Concrete creates a continuous surface with no gaps or movement joints between individual units.

Low maintenance

Unlike pavers, concrete doesn’t allow weeds to grow between joints.

Stronger structural integrity

Properly reinforced slabs resist movement and settlement in WA soils.

Design versatility

Options include honed concrete, exposed aggregate, coloured finishes and architectural detailing.

Better performance under outdoor kitchens

Concrete handles grease, heat and heavy foot traffic exceptionally well.

Concrete is particularly effective when installed as part of a cohesive outdoor design such as concrete patios in Perth, where durability and seamless flow are important.

Pavers are a traditional option for outdoor flooring and can suit certain projects.

✅ Potential Advantages

• Individual units can be replaced if damaged
  
• Wide variety of styles and colours
  
• No curing time required

⚠ Considerations in Perth

• Weed growth between joints
  
• Movement or sinking over time
  
• Edge creep in sandy soils
  
• Higher long-term maintenance
  
• Heat retention depending on colour

While pavers can work in some settings, they often require more ongoing upkeep compared to professionally installed concrete.

Heat Performance

Lighter concrete tones reflect heat better than many darker pavers. Finishes such as honed concrete for alfresco areas remain comfortable underfoot when sealed correctly.

Drainage

Concrete slabs can be engineered with proper fall to control water flow, reducing pooling and erosion. Pavers rely heavily on base preparation and joint integrity.

Soil Movement

Perth’s sandy and reactive soils can cause pavers to shift over time. Reinforced concrete slabs provide greater long-term stability.

Concrete

• Periodic cleaning
• Resealing every few years
• Minimal structural movement
• Lifespan 25–30+ years

Concrete sealing in Perth is recommended to protect against UV, moisture and stains, particularly in alfresco cooking zones.

Pavers

• Weed control
• Joint sand replacement
• Re-levelling over time
• Potential colour fading

Over a 10–15 year period, concrete often requires less maintenance intervention.

Indicative pricing varies based on size, access and finish.

Concrete alfresco areas generally range from:

• Standard grey concrete: $70–$100 per m²
  
• Exposed aggregate: $100–$150 per m²
  
• Honed concrete: $110–$160 per m²

In Perth (2026), installed paver pricing typically ranges from:

• Standard concrete pavers: $80–$120 per m²
  
• Mid-range decorative pavers: $100–$150 per m²
  
• Premium stone or feature pavers: $150–$220+ per m²

Costs depend on:

• Base preparation requirements
  
• Excavation depth
  
• Edge restraints
  
• Paver type and pattern complexity
  
• Site access

On flat, easily accessible blocks, pavers and standard concrete may appear competitively priced. However, decorative concrete finishes often compete directly with mid-range paver pricing.

For most Perth homeowners seeking:

• Modern design
• Minimal maintenance
• Strong structural performance
• Seamless indoor–outdoor flow
• Concrete is often the superior long-term solution.

Architectural concrete   solutions also allow integration of outdoor kitchens, built-in seating and feature detailing that pavers simply cannot achieve as cleanly.

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