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Gravel Vs. Paving Slabs: Which Is Better For Your Outdoor Space?
In 2025, outdoor spaces remain a key focus for homeowners, with gravel and paving slabs leading the charge as popular flooring choices. The gravel vs. paving slabs debate shapes how we design patios, driveways, and walkways, each offering distinct perks in the ever-evolving market of outdoor flooring options. Gravel brings a rustic, budget-friendly vibe, while paving slabs deliver sleek durability and style. Picking between them is tricky—gravel’s loose nature contrasts with slabs’ solid permanence, leaving many torn. Gravel suits DIYers or those with sprawling, casual yards, while paving slabs appeal to folks wanting a polished, low-maintenance look. Let’s break down this choice to see which fits your space best.
Comparison Table of Gravel vs. Paving Slabs
Feature | Gravel (2025) | Paving Slabs (2025) |
Material | Stone aggregate – Natural, loose | Concrete/Stone – Solid, molded |
Cost | £0.39-£1.55/ft² – Low upfront | £3.10-£7.73/ft² – Higher initial investment |
Durability | Moderate – Shifts, erodes over time | High – Long-lasting, stable |
Maintenance | High – Raking, topping up | Low – Sweep, occasional wash |
Installation | Easy – Quick, DIY-friendly | Moderate – Prep, leveling needed |
Drainage | Excellent – Permeable, no pooling | Fair – Needs planning for runoff |
Aesthetics | Rustic, natural – Varied colors | Modern, uniform – Styled finishes |
Versatility | Driveways, paths – Flexible use | Patios, walkways – Structured design |
Features
Material Composition
Gravel vs. paving slabs starts with their makeup. Gravel, like the Travis Perkins 20mm Gravel and Shingle, is loose stone aggregate—think quarried pebbles or crushed rock. Paving slabs, such as the Bradstone Peak Riven Buff, are solid, often concrete or natural stone, molded into precise shapes. Gravel’s natural flow adapts to uneven ground, while slabs offer a firm, consistent base. Gravel’s loose nature suits organic layouts; slabs lock in a structured feel.
Cost
Cost is a big factor. Gravel runs £0.39-£1.55 per square foot—cheap thanks to minimal processing and easy sourcing. Paving slabs jump to £3.10-£7.73 per square foot, factoring in manufacturing and labor. Gravel wins for budget builds like gravel driveways vs. paved driveways; slabs pay off in longevity for those with cash to splash.
Durability
Durability splits gravel vs. paving slabs sharply. Gravel lasts years but shifts—think 5-10 years before ma ajor refresh, depending on traffic. Paving slabs endure 20-30 years, resisting wear and weather with their solid form. Gravel’s prone to ruts; slabs hold firm. For lasting strength, the Bradstone Peak Riven Buff Paving Slab 600mm x 600mm x 35mm delivers with its 35mm concrete build, perfect for heavy-use patios.
Maintenance
Maintenance defines gravel vs. paving slabs upkeep. Gravel needs raking every few months and topping up yearly—£16-£39 per bulk bag. Slabs just need a sweep or hose-down, maybe once a season. Gravel’s high-maintenance suits hands-on owners; slabs ease the load for busy folks. The Bradstone Peak Riven Buff Paving Slab 600mm x 600mm x 35mm keeps it simple with its riven finish, resisting dirt buildup effortlessly.
Installation
Installation ease pits gravel vs. paving slabs. Gravel’s a breeze—spread a 4-6 inch layer over a weed barrier in a day, DIY-style. Slabs demand leveling, a sand base, and cutting—think 2-3 days for 100 square feet. Gravel’s quick for big areas; slabs reward precision. For fast setup, the Travis Perkins Gravel and Shingle Bulk Bag 20mm offers 800kg of fuss-free coverage, ideal for instant driveways.
Drainage
Drainage is key in outdoor flooring options. Gravel excels—its permeability lets water soak through at 850 liters per square meter per minute, dodging puddles. Slabs need sloped design or gaps to avoid pooling, though some crack under frost. Gravel drainage favours wet zones; slabs work with the planning. The Travis Perkins Gravel and Shingle Bulk Bag 20mm shine here, backfilling drains or topping patios with ease.
Aesthetics
Looks shape gravel vs. paving slabs appeal. Gravel offers a rustic charm—varied hues like buff or gray blend with nature. Slabs, with finishes like riven buff, bring modern polish or classic stone vibes. Gravel suits cottage yards; slabs fit sleek designs. Best materials for patios lean slab for style, gravel for earthy tones—your vibe decides.
Conclusion
Gravel vs. paving slabs boils down to trade-offs. Gravel, at £0.39-£1.55 per square foot, offers permeable, rustic charm with an 800kg bulk bag lasting years—ideal for quick, affordable driveways or paths, though it shifts and needs raking. Paving slabs, at £3.10-£7.73 per square foot, bring 20-30 years of durability and low upkeep—perfect for polished patios or walkways, despite pricier installs. Best materials for patios favor slabs for longevity; gravel wins for cost and drainage. Need a fast, earthy fix? Go gravel. Want lasting elegance? Pick slabs. You can find both at Travis Perkins—worth checking out when you’re ready to pave your way.
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