Brick vs Flagstone Walkways
Should you choose brick or flagstone for your landscaping? Both add timeless, classic beauty to your yard, and both are durable choices. Here are some considerations to help you make the choice.
Comparing Costs
Knowing how much you can expect to pay is important. Which one will fit your budget better?
Flagstone is a more affordable material. Most flagstones cost from $2 to $3 less per square foot than bricks or pavers. However, factors beyond the choice of materials affect the cost of your project.
• Type and quality: High-quality flagstone in your color choices may end up costing more than what’s available locally from your regional flagstone quarries. The type of stone also determines the price. For instance, limestone is the most affordable flagstone, and quartzite is the most expensive.
• Installation: Flagstone may be less expensive to buy, but it costs more to install. Because of their irregular shape, flagstones require special expertise. The stones require more cutting and a carefully planned layout. Installing bricks isn’t cheap, either, but the installation is quicker and more straightforward.
Verdict: Your costs will be roughly equal when using brick or flagstones.
Colors and Styles
What color stones do you prefer? To create a cohesive look with your home, choose colors that complement the colors of your siding or brick. If your house is red brick, consider flagstones or bricks with pink tones. If your home has white siding or stucco, choose a pale stone that complements it or a dark one that provides contrast.
The choice of stone for your walkway depends on your landscaping style.
Keep these tips in mind.
• Brick is available in pink, deep red, and light brown.
• Dark stones will get hot in the sun, so choose light-colored stones for sunny areas.
• Use a sealer to prevent stains and water discolorations.
Verdict: Brick comes in limited color varieties, and it’s hard to match the many color options you get with flagstones.
Durability
All stone materials are durable. Brick and flagstones will last and look good for up to 10 years with minimal maintenance. Both types are excellent for most outdoor structures, including patios, walkways, pool surrounds, fountains, and garden borders. But is one stone better for specific installations?
• Driveways: Driveways need stones that can take constant, heavy pressure. Flagstones are too thin to withstand years of cars, trucks, and other vehicles pressing on them. The brick will stand up better, but it may crack over time. If you’re installing a new driveway, consider concrete or gravel instead of stone.
• Walkways: Stone walkways look beautiful in any garden. You can choose cut flagstones for a polished, elegant look, brick for a classic look, or irregular flagstones for a rustic look. Walkways are completely customizable to your taste when you choose the colors, layout, and accent plants.
• Patios: A patio is a high-traffic area that needs a tough stone. Brick is a durable, elegant choice that gives your patio a classic look. If you prefer flagstones, choose granite or quartzite, which are the toughest flagstones.
Verdict: Choose the right stone for the right job. Concrete is best for high-traffic areas.
Get Expert Help from Capital Masonry
When it’s time to install stone landscaping, Capital Masonry can help. We have installed gorgeous brick and flagstone projects for clients in Maryland, D.C., and Virginia. Please look at our gallery for examples of our work to find your inspiration. We can help you design the stone elements that make your garden come to life.