When planning a new patio, one of the biggest considerations is whether to opt for concrete patio slabs or block paving. The surface you select will shape the look, feel, and functionality of your outdoor space for years to come. It’s not just a design choice, it’s also about drainage, durability, maintenance, and long-term value.
Both options can create a stunning, practical patio. The key is understanding their differences so you can make the right decision for your home, climate, and lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll compare the two in depth and provide practical advice, so you’re well informed.
Concrete Patio Slabs: Sleek, Simple, and Speedy to Install
Concrete patio slabs are a classic choice for a reason. Their large format creates a smooth, clean-lined surface with minimal joints, making them perfect for both modern designs and traditional gardens. You can choose from a wide range of colours and finishes, such as smooth, textured, or even stone-effect, to suit your home’s architecture.
One of their main advantages is efficiency. Laying slabs is usually faster and less labour-intensive than installing block paving, which can help reduce installation costs. For many homeowners, this means more budget left for other features, like outdoor furniture or landscaping.
Maintenance for concrete patio slabs is straightforward. With occasional sweeping, the odd hose down, and periodic sealing (if recommended), slabs stay looking fresh. They also resist most staining when sealed properly, making them ideal for dining areas where spills may occur.
However, slabs have limitations. Being a solid surface, they can crack if the sub-base shifts, especially in clay-heavy soils common in Surrey. Repairing concrete patio slabs can be challenging because colour-matched replacements may be hard to source, and patches can be noticeable.
Drainage is another consideration. Standard concrete is impermeable, meaning water needs to be directed away via falls, channels, or soakaways. According to the Planning Portal, impermeable surfaces over 5 m² in domestic gardens should manage runoff within the property to avoid adding pressure to public drains.
Block Paving: Customisable, Durable, and Repair-Friendly
Block paving is a popular choice in Surrey due to its aesthetic flexibility and practical resilience. Individual blocks can be laid in endless patterns (herringbone, basketweave, or linear), and combined with borders or contrasting colours for a truly bespoke design.
Because block paving is made of many small units, it can flex slightly with ground movement without cracking. This makes it more forgiving on sites where soil shifts with weather conditions. It’s also easy to repair so if a block becomes damaged or stained, you can lift and replace it without disturbing the rest of the patio.
Drainage is a strong point. Many block paving options are permeable, meaning rainwater naturally drains through the joints into the ground. This helps reduce runoff and comply with Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) principles which is a key consideration in areas prone to heavy rain or water pooling.
The trade-off is cost and labour. Laying block paving takes longer, and the precision required for patterns and edging means installation costs can be higher. Maintenance is slightly more involved than slabs, as joints may need occasional re-sanding, and weeds can appear if sweeping is neglected. That said, the ability to carry out small, discreet repairs often outweighs these extra steps.
Concrete Patio Slabs vs Block Paving in Surrey
- Appearance: Slabs offer a sleek and uniform surface. Blocks allow decorative patterns and colour combinations.
- Durability: Both can last decades with correct installation. Slabs are prone to cracking while blocks can flex and be repaired in sections.
- Maintenance: Slabs are easy to clean but harder to repair invisibly while blocks need joint upkeep but allow quick replacements.
- Drainage: Slabs require built-in drainage while permeable block paving manages water at the surface.
- Cost: While slabs are generally quicker and cheaper to install, block paving has a higher initial cost but offers long-term flexibility.
How to Decide Between Concrete Patio Slabs and Block Paving
Start by thinking about your priorities. If you want clean lines, a faster build, and a more affordable starting price, slabs may be ideal. If you value pattern, customisation, and repairability, block paving is worth considering.
Drainage should be central to your choice. In Surrey’s mixed climate, heavy downpours can quickly test outdoor surfaces. Slabs will need channels, slopes, or soakaways to keep water moving. Permeable block paving can handle rainfall on the spot, which is particularly useful if your garden is on clay soil or you’re concerned about standing water.
Style preferences also play a big role. Slabs offer a minimal, contemporary look, while block paving can bring character and visual interest. Your patio’s surroundings, such as brickwork, planting, and boundary walls, can guide you toward the material that will complement your home best.
Sustainability and Year-Round Comfort
Permeable block paving is generally more eco-friendly, helping water soak into the ground rather than running off into drains. Slabs can still be sustainable if paired with features like gravel borders, planted edges, or rain gardens to manage water naturally.
Comfort is another factor. In shaded areas, opt for a textured surface to reduce slipperiness. In sunny spots, lighter colours will reflect heat and stay cooler underfoot. Consider how furniture will sit, for example larger slabs provide stable footing for tables and chairs, while block paving patterns can add grip on slopes or steps.
Concrete Patio Slabs and Block Paving FAQ
Do concrete patio slabs or block paving last longer?
Both can last 20+ years. Slabs may crack if the ground moves while blocks can usually be repaired more easily.
What’s easier to maintain?
Slabs need minimal cleaning but are harder to patch invisibly. Blocks need occasional joint care but make spot repairs simple.
Which is better for drainage?
Permeable block paving allows rain to soak in while slabs need built-in drainage systems.
Can I mix the two?
Yes! Concrete patio slabs used for main areas and block paving used for borders or paths is a popular combination.
How are patio quotes generated?
Patio quotes should be based on a number of factors, such as your budget and style preferences. For example, at Evolve Construction, all patio quotes are transparent with no hidden extras and provide a clear breakdown of every stage of the project.
Ready to Upgrade Your Patio?
Both concrete patio slabs and block paving offer strong benefits. Slabs bring simplicity, speed, and cost efficiency, while blocks deliver design versatility, repairability, and often better drainage.
If you’re considering installing a new patio with concrete slabs or block paving in Surrey, make sure you speak to trusted local patio installation experts. At Evolve Construction, we provide fully transparent, no-obligation patio quotes which take into account your budget, style, maintenance preferences, and site conditions.
Learn more about upgrading your patio, or contact us now for your free, no-pressure quote.
