Is Belgard pricier than Techo-Bloc for a Vancouver driveway?
Is Belgard pricier than Techo-Bloc for a Vancouver driveway?
Belgard and Techo-Bloc are both premium paver brands with very similar pricing in Metro Vancouver — typically within $1-3 per square foot of each other for comparable products. The total cost difference for a typical 600 sq ft driveway would be $600-1,800, which is often less significant than other project variables.
Material Pricing Comparison
Both brands position themselves in the premium segment, with 80mm driveway pavers ranging $8-15 per sq ft for materials alone. Belgard tends to be slightly more expensive for their signature lines like Holland Stone and Cambridge Cobble, while Techo-Bloc's Blu series and Eva pavers are competitively priced. However, pricing varies significantly by specific product, colour, and current availability through Metro Vancouver suppliers.
The more important cost factors are often pattern complexity (herringbone costs more to install than running bond), site access (narrow Vancouver driveways requiring hand-bombing materials), and existing surface removal (breaking up old concrete adds $3-6 per sq ft). A contractor's familiarity with a particular brand can also affect labour costs — some installers prefer working with one manufacturer's sizing and edge details.
Performance in Metro Vancouver's Climate
Both manufacturers produce high-quality concrete pavers rated for 8,000+ PSI compressive strength that perform excellently in Vancouver's marine climate. The key performance factors are proper base preparation (10-12 inches of compacted granular base for driveways), adequate drainage design, and quality polymeric sand in the joints. Techo-Bloc's newer textured surfaces like Antika and Rocka tend to hide moss growth better than smooth finishes, while Belgard's tumbled products offer similar benefits.
Local Availability and Support
Techo-Bloc has strong representation in BC through suppliers like Burnaby Block and Mutual Materials, while Belgard products are available through multiple landscape supply yards across Metro Vancouver. Both companies provide technical support and installation guidelines, though local contractor familiarity varies. Some installers have preferred relationships with specific suppliers that can affect material pricing through volume discounts.
Making the Decision
Focus on the specific paver style, colour, and texture you prefer rather than brand loyalty. Request samples of both manufacturers' products in your desired colour to see how they look in your actual lighting conditions — north-facing driveways in Vancouver show colours differently than south-facing installations. Get quotes for the complete installed project including excavation, base preparation, edge restraints, and polymeric sand rather than comparing material costs alone.
Need help finding an interlock contractor who works with both brands? Vancouver Interlock can match you with experienced driveway installers who can provide side-by-side pricing for your specific project requirements.
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