Cambridge vs Nicolock: The Two Biggest Paver Brands on Long Island
If you are planning a paver project on Long Island, chances are you have heard of Cambridge Pavingstones and Nicolock Paving Stones. These two manufacturers dominate the local market, and for good reason. Both are headquartered right here in the region, both produce high-quality interlocking pavers, and both offer wide product lines. But they are not identical, and the differences matter depending on your project goals. We install both brands regularly across Nassau and Suffolk County, so here is an honest comparison to help you decide.
Product Quality and Durability
Both Cambridge and Nicolock manufacture their pavers to meet or exceed ASTM standards for compressive strength and freeze-thaw resistance, which is essential for Long Island's climate. Cambridge pavers typically test at 8,000+ PSI compressive strength, while Nicolock pavers are comparable at similar strength ratings. In practical terms, both brands will hold up for decades on Long Island when installed correctly with a proper base. The real durability difference comes down to their surface technologies rather than the base material.
Surface Technology: ArmorTec vs Paver Shield
- Cambridge ArmorTec: Cambridge developed their proprietary ArmorTec surface technology, which integrates color throughout the top layer of the paver. This helps resist fading, staining, and wear from UV exposure and foot traffic. ArmorTec pavers maintain their color better over time compared to standard pavers without surface treatment.
- Nicolock Paver Shield: Nicolock uses their Paver Shield technology, which also provides enhanced color protection and stain resistance. Paver Shield creates a denser surface that resists oil, grease, and common household stains. Both technologies serve the same purpose, and both deliver noticeable improvements over unprotected pavers.
- Bottom line: Both surface treatments are effective. In our experience installing thousands of square feet of each brand on Long Island, we see comparable long-term color retention and stain resistance from both.
Color Selection and Aesthetic Options
This is where personal preference plays the biggest role. Cambridge offers a broader range of color blends and tends to lean toward richer, warmer tones. Their Ledgestone and RoundTable collections are especially popular in upscale neighborhoods like Garden City, Great Neck, and Syosset. Nicolock is known for clean, consistent color blends and offers excellent options in both contemporary and traditional styles. Their Colonial and Firma collections are favorites across Huntington and Smithtown. We recommend visiting a local supply yard to see both brands in person, since colors look different in outdoor light than they do in photos or small samples.
Pattern and Shape Variety
- Cambridge offers a wide range of paver shapes including their popular Ledgestone XL, Sherwood Collection, and Renaissance Collection. Their large-format pavers are particularly trendy for modern patio designs.
- Nicolock counters with versatile options like their Firma, Colonial, and Granite City collections. Nicolock also offers some unique textured finishes that work well for pool decks and walkways.
- Both brands offer standard patterns like herringbone, running bond, and basketweave, as well as random layouts for a more natural stone appearance.
- For driveways specifically, both Cambridge and Nicolock offer paver shapes rated for vehicular traffic with proper thickness (typically 80mm or 3.15 inches).
Warranty Comparison
Cambridge offers a lifetime limited warranty on their pavers, covering structural integrity and significant color degradation. Nicolock also provides a lifetime warranty with similar terms. Both warranties are transferable if you sell your home, which adds value for Long Island homeowners looking at resale. The key with any paver warranty is that it covers manufacturing defects, not installation issues. That is why choosing a qualified contractor matters as much as choosing the right paver brand. A poorly installed Cambridge or Nicolock driveway will fail regardless of the product warranty.
Pricing: How Do They Compare?
Cambridge and Nicolock pavers are priced competitively with each other on Long Island. Material costs for both brands typically range from $4 to $10 per square foot depending on the specific product line, with premium collections costing more. The installed cost difference between the two brands for the same style of project is usually minimal, often less than 5%. Your total project cost will be driven more by the design complexity, site preparation, and labor than by which brand you choose. We encourage homeowners to pick the brand with the color and style they prefer rather than shopping strictly on price.
Our Recommendation for Long Island Homeowners
Honestly, you cannot go wrong with either Cambridge or Nicolock. Both are premium products built for Long Island conditions. Choose Cambridge if you prefer their specific color blends and shape options, particularly their large-format modern styles. Choose Nicolock if their color palette and textures match your vision better. The most important decision is not which brand to pick but rather which contractor installs it. A properly compacted base, correct joint sand, and appropriate edge restraints matter far more than the name on the paver. At Brothers Paving & Masonry, we are experienced installers of both brands and can help you choose during a free consultation at your home in Garden City, Syosset, Huntington, or anywhere on Long Island.