Nicolock vs Techo Bloc: Comparing Two Leading Brands of Paving Stones

Roger Marx

December 24,2022

Roger Marx, a distinguished BPA Advisor specializing in Landscaping & Outdoor Materials, is dedicated to sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise on the latest trending building and design products. With a keen focus on landscaping and outdoor materials, Roger contributes valuable insights that shape discussions on innovative construction practices and materials in these vibrant and essential areas.

When it comes to being a homeowner, you’re going to want to do all that you can to boost your home’s value and the overall curb appeal, right? Well, one of the best ways to do this would be adding on, such as creating a nice patio, walkway, or driveway. However, it can be a challenge to look at paving stone manufacturer brochures. You’re instantly hit with a lot of challenges, such as what some of the comparisons even mean. Besides, how can you tell if something is such a great product?

Well, a lot of these manufacturers are fairly similar. But each of these manufacturers is going to have its own little differences that can potentially add up to make a large difference. The very same can go for the Nicolock vs. Techo Bloc debate. These two pavers are similar, but all the little details help set each of them apart. So, which one is the best to choose? Keep reading on to learn all about Nicolock and Techo Bloc for your next paving project!

Nicolock vs. Techo Bloc: Overview

So, is Techo Bloc vs. Nicolock the same company or different? Well, both of these are two different companies in the same market. So, let’s dive right into these very popular manufacturers and get a run-down of what each of these is like.

Nicolock

Nicolock is a 100% U.S-based, owned, and operated company specializing in the production of patio pavers as well as other hardscaping products. They have a complete line of interlocking concrete paving stones, precast concrete products, segmental retaining wall systems, and architectural paving slabs,

Techo Bloc

Techo-Bloc, one of the major North American manufacturers, was founded back in 1989. It has the reputation of having some of the most durable paving stones on the market. Techo Bloc works to create durable products that aim to help out in never leaving any homeowner, contractor, or designer feeling stuck in terms of options.

How to Choose the Best Pavers?

When it comes to choosing the best pavers, such as Techo Bloc and Nicolock, you’re going to need to do some research. Not all paver manufacturers are created equally, and those minor differences can truly add up to make a major difference in the purchasing experience, installation, and even the overall end product too. Here are some considerations you’re going to want to keep in mind when it comes to choosing the best pavers.

Color Diversity

The color options are going to be one of the main contributing factors when it comes to selecting the right manufacturer. You’re going to want to bring as much curb appeal to your property as much as you can, right? Even in the Nicolock vs. Techo Bloc, this is something you’ll have to pay close attention to as each manufacturer tends to differ in this department. 

Techo Bloc offers several design options which can be perfect for adding a modern or contemporary flare to your home’s lawn. What about Nicolock? Well, they’ve been praised by customers and contracts for the vibrant colors they provide. Plus, you can count on their colors to stay rich and vibrant for years to come.

Value

Another consideration you’ll need to keep in mind is the paver cost. While your home deserves to have that gorgeous pavement, you shouldn’t have to worry about breaking the bank either. On the one hand, Techo Bloc is known for having a premium products. Therefore, their pricing is going to be higher. On the other hand, Nicolock is considered by many to be far more affordable. While there isn’t a substantial price difference between Nicolock vs. Techo Bloc, you can still count on there being a price difference nonetheless.

Installation Time

Unless this is a DIY project that you’re doing yourself, you’ll need to keep the installation time into account. If it takes longer to install pavers, this means you have to pay for more working hours; therefore, the installation cost will go up. If you’re pressed for time, then Nicolock may be the better option, as the installation time is far faster than Techo Bloc.

Style

Even paved patios, walkways, and driveways are all going to have a certain style. What type of style do you want to achieve? While Techo Bloc is still considered a relative newcomer in the paver industry, this company does receive high praise for the strict quality standards that is has. Plus, their end goal is to always create a high-end style. So if you’re after a more luxurious style, then this could be the perfect option for you.

Nicolock vs Techo Bloc: Pros

Now that we looked into some of the considerations you’ll need to take into account for pavers, we should now look into some of the benefits that each of these manufacturers has to provide for their customers.

Nicolock

  • Nicolock offers a limited lifetime warranty
  • It is considered a more cost-effective option
  • Has patented manufacturing technology known as “Paver-Shield™,” which ensures that the pavers will look great for years to come
  • Eco-friendly meaning that the product can be easily recycled due to the natural materials it’s made from

Techo Bloc

  • Lifetime warranty
  • Salt resistant
  • Has only 5% water absorption, which helps this to stay chip, scuff, and scratch-resistant
  • Offers more design options compared to Nicolock
  • UV and weather resistant

Nicolock vs Techo Bloc: Cons

A lot of paving manufacturers, including Techo Bloc vs. Nicolock, actually have some common problems. But let’s dive into some of the issues that are unique to each manufacturer.

Nicolock

  • Lack of design and color options
  • Not completely weather resistant
  • Prone to problems during the winter season (freezing and thawing cycle), such as cracking or fragmenting.

Techo Bloc

  • Premium price tag
  • Relatively stain-resistant; however, rust is difficult to remove.
  • The manufacturer recommends not getting leaves, food, or beverages on the surface due to potential stains.

Nicolock vs. Techo Bloc: FAQs

What are the Nicolock pavers made from?

Nicolock pavers are made from concrete. These are then molded into a shape such as brick or cobblestone.

How long are Techo Bloc pavers expected to last?

There isn’t a definitive answer regarding the length of time that Techo Bloc pavers last. However, thanks to the structural integrity at Techo Bloc, they do focus on creating a product that is meant to last a lifetime. Plus, Techo Bloc provides a limited lifetime warranty on their paving stones, although this is only for residential projects.

Which is better, Techo Bloc or Nicolock?

Both of these are top brands and can be great choices for adding more curb appeal to your property. So there is no distinct winner here. It’s going to come down to personal preferences, such as your design needs and budget.

Nicolock vs. Techo Bloc: Which is Best for You?

Nicolock vs Techo Bloc Pavers

In general, choosing the right pavers for your hardscape will be far from easy. There are plenty of pavers on the market, and each one of these is going to offer some different features. At the end, it's going to be up to you when it comes to the Nicolock vs. Techo Bloc debate. If money isn’t an issue and you’re after luxurious aesthetics, then maybe Techo Bloc is the right option. But, if you’re on a tight budget, then Nicolock could be the right manufacturer for you. In the end, it’s just about your preference, which will be the best way to decide.

Get Smarter About Building Products

Join 50,000+ subscribers and get our 3 min daily newsletter on what matters in the building materials industry.



    You might like this