Paver vs. Flagstone Patio: Which One is Right for You? (Cost & Comparison Guide for Oak Ridge & Knoxville, TN Homeowners)

You Want a Patio, But Which One?

You’ve been dreaming about upgrading your backyard, haven’t you? Maybe it’s a spot where you can sip your morning coffee, host family barbecues, or just relax under the stars after a long day. You know a patio would transform your outdoor space, but the big question is…

What kind of patio should you choose?

If you’re like most homeowners we talk to, you’ve already started researching and hit a wall of information.

Pavers vs. flagstone—what’s the difference?
How much does each one cost?
Which one lasts longer?
Are there maintenance concerns?
What’s the best investment for my home?

We get it—choosing a patio is a big decision. You’re not just thinking about today—you’re considering how this investment will look and hold up years down the road.

At Willow Ridge Garden Center and Landscaping, we’ve been designing and installing patios in Oak Ridge, Knoxville, and surrounding areas for years. We’ve seen what works, what lasts, and what homeowners love most.

By the end of this article, you’ll know:

The cost of a paver vs. flagstone patio in Oak Ridge & Knoxville, TN
The pros and cons of each material
How maintenance and durability compare
How to choose the best option for your home

Let’s dive in.

What’s the Cost of a Paver Patio vs. a Flagstone Patio?

We know cost is one of the biggest concerns when making this decision. So let’s break it down.

Paver Patio Costs

If you’re considering a paver patio, here’s what you can expect to pay:

A small 10′ x 10′ paver patio starts at $5,900.
A medium 10′ x 20′ patio starts at $10,900.
A larger 15′ x 20′ patio starts at $14,500.
A big 20′ x 20′ patio starts at $18,900.

Paver patios are generally more budget-friendly than flagstone, while still offering a variety of patterns, colors, and styles.

Flagstone Patio Costs

If you’re leaning toward flagstone, here’s what to expect:

A small 10′ x 10′ flagstone patio starts at $6,500.
A medium 10′ x 20′ patio starts at $11,900.
A larger 15′ x 20′ patio starts at $15,700.
A big 20′ x 20′ patio starts at $19,000.

Flagstone is a natural stone, which means it costs more than pavers due to the additional labor and material expenses.

Paver vs. Flagstone: What’s the Difference?

Both pavers and flagstone create beautiful patios, but they have major differences in materials, installation, and maintenance.

Paver Patios

Pavers are man-made and come in uniform shapes and sizes, making them easier and faster to install. They’re available in a wide variety of colors, textures, and patterns, so you can achieve nearly any look you want.

Homeowners love pavers because:

They are easy to repair (you can replace individual pavers if needed).
They come in different colors, shapes, and textures.
They offer a structured, clean look.
They are cost-effective compared to flagstone.

Flagstone Patios

Flagstone is a natural stone. Each stone is unique, meaning no two flagstone patios look the same. The installation process is more complex, requiring skilled labor to shape and place the stones correctly.

Flagstone is a great choice if you:

Love a natural, organic look.
Want a higher-end, one-of-a-kind patio.
Are okay with slightly higher installation costs.

Maintenance & Durability: How Do Paver and Flagstone Patios Hold Up Over Time?

A patio isn’t just about how it looks when it’s brand new—you want to know how it will hold up years down the road. The good news? Both paver and flagstone patios can last for decades with proper care.

Longevity

Pavers and flagstone can both last 30+ years when installed correctly and maintained over time.
The key to longevity is proper installation—a solid base, good drainage, and occasional maintenance.

Surface & Usability

One thing to consider is how you plan to use your patio.

Paver patios provide a smooth, level surface, making them great for patio furniture, outdoor dining sets, and fire pits. Because pavers are uniform in size and shape, they create a flat, stable area that works well for seating and entertaining.
Flagstone patios, being made from natural stone, have variations in surface texture. This adds to their rustic charm, but because the stones are irregular in shape and thickness, they may have small ridges and dips. Some homeowners love this natural, organic look, while others prefer the even surface of pavers.

Repairs & Maintenance

Pavers are easier to repair because individual pieces can be replaced if they crack or shift.
Flagstone is more challenging to repair since each stone is unique and hand-placed. If a stone settles over time, releveling it may take more effort.

Weed Growth & Joint Filler

Both patios require some maintenance in the joints between the stones, but the materials used are different:

Paver patios use polymeric sand between the joints, which helps lock the pavers in place and prevent weeds from growing. This creates a tight, stable surface with minimal upkeep.
Flagstone patios at Willow Ridge Garden Center are installed with 1-2” river rock between the stones, rather than sand or mortar. The river rock:
- Enhances the natural aesthetic of the flagstone patio
- Allows for proper drainage, reducing standing water

The river rock joints give flagstone patios a beautiful, finished look while maintaining good drainage and weed control.

Cleaning & General Maintenance

Both patio types are easy to clean with basic care:

A quick sweep or rinse keeps them free of debris.
Pressure washing (on a low setting) once a year can refresh their look.
Occasionally adding more river rock to flagstone joints may be needed over time as the stones naturally settle.

Final Thoughts on Durability & Maintenance

Both paver and flagstone patios are long-lasting and designed to withstand Tennessee’s climate for decades.

If you want a smooth, uniform surface that’s easy to maintain, pavers are a great choice.
If you love a natural, one-of-a-kind look and appreciate the unique texture of flagstone, a flagstone patio with river rock joints is an excellent option.