Designing a beautiful backyard in Pennsylvania starts with choosing the right hardscape materials. One of the most common questions homeowners ask is paver vs. natural stone — what’s better? The answer depends on your style, budget, and how you plan to use your outdoor space.
At Greenstone Gardens, a family-owned landscaping company based in Newtown Square, PA, we’ve spent over 44 years helping homeowners create outdoor spaces that balance beauty, durability, and function. Let’s break down the key differences to help you make a confident decision.
Understanding the Basics
Pavers are manufactured stones made from concrete or clay, designed to be uniform in size and shape. They’re engineered for strength and consistency.
Natural stone, as the name suggests, is quarried directly from the earth. Materials like bluestone, flagstone, and limestone offer organic textures and one-of-a-kind color variation. You can learn more about what qualifies as natural stone here.
Durability in Pennsylvania’s Climate
Pennsylvania’s freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rain, and seasonal temperature swings demand materials that can handle expansion and contraction.
- Pavers perform exceptionally well in PA climates because they’re installed as individual units. If one shifts or cracks, it can be replaced without disturbing the rest of the surface.
- Natural stone is extremely strong but varies by type. Some stones handle freezing temperatures better than others and require expert installation to avoid cracking.
For high-traffic patios, walkways, and driveways, professionally installed pavers often offer greater long-term flexibility.
Maintenance & Longevity
- Pavers are relatively low maintenance. Occasional cleaning and joint sand replacement keep them looking sharp. Properly installed, they can last decades.
- Natural stone may require sealing and more attentive care, especially in shaded or damp areas where moss or staining can develop.
Both options are long-lasting, but pavers tend to offer easier upkeep for busy homeowners.
Appearance & Design Style
If you love clean lines and consistency, pavers provide a polished, modern look with a wide range of colors and patterns. Natural stone, on the other hand, delivers unmatched character—no two pieces are alike, creating a timeless, organic feel.
Our team often helps homeowners blend these materials into custom designs through professional hardscape installation, like those featured here.
Cost Considerations
- Pavers generally have a lower upfront cost and predictable pricing.
- Natural stone is typically more expensive due to quarrying, transport, and specialized installation—but many homeowners feel the unique aesthetic is worth it.
Your budget, long-term goals, and desired look all play a role in determining value.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose pavers if you want durability, lower maintenance, and design flexibility. Choose natural stone if you value organic beauty, uniqueness, and a classic, upscale appearance. In many cases, a combination of both can deliver the best of both worlds.
Let Greenstone Gardens Bring Your Vision to Life
Whether you’re planning a new patio, walkway, outdoor kitchen, or full landscape redesign, Greenstone Gardens brings expert craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and personalized service to every project throughout Newtown Square and the surrounding Pennsylvania communities.
Ready to explore your options? Contact our team today to start planning your perfect outdoor space!