Gravel vs. Pavers — What’s Best for Your Vermont Driveway or Patio?

A Local Guide to Making the Right Choice for Your Property

If you’re planning a new driveway, patio, firepit area, or walkway in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is gravel vs. pavers. Each option has its own pros and cons depending on your budget, design goals, and maintenance preferences.

At NEK Landscaping, we’ve installed both materials on all kinds of properties across Newport, Derby, Coventry, and the surrounding region. Here’s what you need to know.

Gravel – Affordable, Flexible, and Low-Maintenance

Gravel is one of the most popular and cost-effective hardscaping materials. It’s great for driveways, parking pads, and even rustic-style patios or paths.

Pros of Gravel:

  • Lower upfront cost than pavers or concrete

  • Fast installation – ideal for large areas

  • Great drainage – perfect for Vermont’s freeze-thaw cycles

  • Easy repairs – simply rake or add more gravel as needed

Considerations:

  • Requires periodic regrading

  • May scatter into nearby lawn or garden areas

  • Can shift under heavy loads or foot traffic

  • Snow removal can be more challenging without disturbing the surface

Pavers – Durable, Stylish, and Long-Lasting

Pavers are interlocking blocks (concrete, brick, or stone) that create smooth, level surfaces. They’re often used for patios, walkways, and high-end driveway installations.

Pros of Pavers:

  • Highly customizable in color, shape, and pattern

  • Strong & long-lasting under heavy use

  • Minimal shifting when installed with a proper base

  • Professional appearance adds curb appeal and home value

Considerations:

  • Higher upfront cost

  • Installation requires expertise for proper leveling and compaction

  • Weed growth between joints if not sealed or maintained

Which Is Better for Your Property?

Feature Gravel Pavers
Cost Lower Higher
Maintenance Easy, but more frequent Minimal with sealing
Drainage Excellent Good with proper base
Aesthetic Options Limited Wide range
Snow Removal Difficult Easier
Installation Time Faster Slower, more involved

What NEK Landscaping Recommends

  • Gravel is ideal for rural driveways, large properties, or cost-conscious projects where function matters more than form.

  • Pavers are best for patios, walkways, and front entrances where visual appeal and long-term investment are key.

Not sure? We’ll help you assess your terrain, budget, and goals to make the right call for your outdoor space.

Start Your Hardscape Project with Confidence

Whether you choose gravel, pavers, or a combination of both, NEK Landscaping delivers professional design and expert installation across the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont.

📞 Call 802-673-2491 to schedule a free consultation
📍 Serving Newport Center, Derby, Jay, and surrounding NEK towns

Services

Lawn Care

Landscaping

Hardscaping

Excavation

Forestry Mulching

Snow Removal

Contact Us For A FREE Quote

(802) 673-2491
neklandscaping@gmail.com

"We arrived home from FL and were stunned by the beautiful gardens that Hunter and his team had edged and mulched! Great job! Highly recommend him!"

Nancy P.

Derby, Vermont

"Super fast service, great pricing, and did an awesome job on our difficult lawn."

Jennifer P.

Newport, Vermont

"NEK Landscaping does a great job for a great price. I am above pleased with the service of NEK Landscaping and will continue to use them for the foreseeable future."

Andrew M.

Troy, Vermont