If you're planning a new patio in Rio Rancho or Albuquerque, you've probably considered both stamped concrete and pavers. Both are solid options, but they have real differences in cost, maintenance, durability, and performance in New Mexico's climate. Here's an honest comparison.
Stamped Concrete
Stamped concrete is a single, continuous slab of reinforced concrete with a pattern and color pressed into the surface before it cures.
Pros
- Lower cost — typically $10–$18/sq ft installed vs $20–$40+/sq ft for pavers
- No weeds or shifting — it's one solid slab, so no sand joints for weeds to grow through
- Fast installation — most patios are completed in 2–3 days
- Wide variety of patterns — flagstone, slate, brick, tile, wood plank, and more
- Low maintenance — reseal every 2–3 years and you're done
Cons
- Can crack — all concrete develops control cracks, though proper installation minimizes random cracking
- Harder to repair — patching a section doesn't blend as seamlessly as replacing individual pavers
- Resealing required — the sealer wears over time, especially in New Mexico's UV-intense sun
Pavers
Pavers are individual interlocking stones (concrete, brick, or natural stone) set on a compacted sand and gravel base.
Pros
- Easy individual repair — a damaged paver can be pulled up and replaced
- No cracking concerns — flexible joints absorb ground movement
- Premium look — natural stone pavers have a high-end appearance
Cons
- Higher cost — materials and labor add up quickly
- Weed growth — sand joints allow weeds to sprout, requiring ongoing maintenance
- Shifting and settling — pavers can shift over time, especially on New Mexico's expansive soils
- Ant hills and erosion — sand base can wash out or be disturbed by insects
- Slower installation — each paver is placed individually
Which Works Better in New Mexico?
New Mexico's expansive clay soils are a factor. Pavers on a sand base can shift and settle unevenly over seasons of wetting and drying. Stamped concrete, poured on a properly compacted subbase with reinforcement, tends to perform more consistently on our soils.
The dry climate also means less weed pressure in paver joints than in wetter regions — but it's still a maintenance item.
Our Recommendation
For most Rio Rancho and Albuquerque homeowners, stamped concrete offers the best value — lower upfront cost, less ongoing maintenance, and strong performance in our climate. If you have the budget and want a premium natural stone look, pavers are a great choice — but go in with eyes open about the maintenance commitment.
At Sombrero Construction, we specialize in stamped and decorative concrete and can show you pattern and color options during a free on-site consultation.