Alright, folks, time to talk pavers, patios, and the battle for backyard domination. In one corner: Nicolock, the heavyweight of vibrant color and versatility. In the other: Cambridge Pavingstones with ArmorTec®, the champion of strength, staying power, and, apparently, over 3 BILLION pavers sold (yes, with a “B”—that’s enough to pave a road to the moon, give or take a few trillion feet).
But let’s pump the brakes on the drama. This isn’t about picking a winner. It’s about helping YOU, the future outdoor living legend, figure out which brand fits your vibe, vision, and weekend DIY dreams. When comparing Nicolock vs. Cambridge, it’s less about rivalry and more about which style best suits your project.
Let’s dig in (pun definitely intended).
Nicolock vs. Cambridge Vibe Check: Style & Color
Nicolock brings the fireworks when it comes to color. We’re talking seriously vibrant, like-a-box-of-crayons-dumped-onto-your-driveway vibes. Their paver-shield™ technology means the color you fall in love with at the store is the same color you’ll see years down the line. From earthy tones to bold accent hues, Nicolock’s palette is like an HGTV dream board come to life.
Cambridge, on the other hand, is the strong, silent type. Thanks to ArmorTec®, their pavers resist fading, chipping, and weathering. While their colors may lean more natural and subdued compared to Nicolock, they stay smooth, dense, and clean-looking over time, even after years of driveway battles and BBQ spills.
The Verdict:
Want bold, custom color variety? Nicolock.
Want subtle elegance that lasts for decades? Cambridge.
This is often the biggest deciding factor when homeowners research Nicolock vs. Cambridge. Do you want vivid color or timeless subtlety?
Nicolock vs. Cambridge Product Lines: The Heavy Hitters
Both brands offer a deep bench of outdoor building blocks. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect:
Nicolock Products (Available at 9 Brothers):
- Driveways, Walkways, Patios
- Retaining Walls, Caps, Coping, Columns
- Outdoor Kitchens, Fireplaces, Fire Pits, Pizza Ovens
- Slabs, Steps, Stepping Stones
- Pergolas and permeable options too
Their line is cohesive, design-forward, and customizable. Need a matching fire pit for your patio? Done. Want to throw a pizza party? Nicolock’s got the oven. Bonus points for ease of design consistency across all product categories.
Cambridge Products (Also Available at 9 Brothers):
- Everything from ADA pavers to Wall Systems
- Fire Pits, Fireplaces, Outdoor Kitchens
- Driveways, Walkways, Stepping Stones, Patios
- Pizza Ovens, Pergolas, Pavilions, and Tables
- Even stone veneer to complete your castle vibes
Cambridge is a full-service solution with a massive variety of products, and everything is engineered with ArmorTec durability in mind. Plus, their wall systems are color-matched to their pavers, giving you aesthetic continuity across the board.
The Verdict:
When it comes to Nicolock vs. Cambridge, Nicolock leans vibrant and user-friendly. Cambridge brings a broader palette (literally and figuratively) and some bonus architectural features like stone veneer and pavilions.
Nicolock vs. Cambridge Durability & Performance: Can They Take a Punch?
Nicolock prides itself on sustainability and strength. Their pavers are densely packed and precision-made, holding up like champs against snow, heat, and everyday wear. They back this up with a lifetime transferable warranty, providing peace of mind for life or resale.
Cambridge? They went
full armor. Literally. Their ArmorTec® face mix locks in color and surface durability, protecting against erosion and fade over decades. Don’t just take their word for it. Leading authorities like ASTM and ICPI certify their quality. Their pavers are only sold through trained, authorized distributors like 9 Brothers, so you know you’re getting the real deal.
The Verdict:
Both are durable warriors, but Cambridge’s ArmorTec tech gives them a slight edge in long-term performance, especially in high-traffic areas like driveways.
Nicolock vs. Cambridge Budget & Value: Show Me the Money
Nicolock is designed with flexibility in mind. Modular design, a wide pricing spectrum, and financing options help bring big backyard visions to life in phases. Plus, the visual pop you get for the price is hard to beat.
Cambridge, while equally affordable, tends to focus on value over time. The up-front cost might feel similar to Nicolock, but their emphasis is on longevity and structural integrity, especially for homeowners thinking decades ahead or those planning to add property value.
The Verdict:
So if you’re weighing Nicolock vs. Cambridge on cost alone, it comes down to these questions:
For design flexibility? Nicolock.
For long-term investment and property appeal? Cambridge.
Made in the USA With Pride
Both Nicolock and Cambridge manufacture right here in the U.S., keeping quality control tight and jobs local. At 9 Brothers Building Supply, we proudly support both American-made brands because, let’s be honest, imported concrete just doesn’t hit the same.
Nicolock vs. Cambridge Final Word: So… Who Reigns Supreme?
Spoiler alert: They both do.
If you want that wow factor with next-level colors, seamless design choices, and backyard products that all talk to each other like old friends at a BBQ, Nicolock is your brand.
If you want legacy-level performance, subtle sophistication, and a reputation built on over 3 BILLION pavers (and counting), Cambridge is calling your name.
Truth is, you can’t lose. With Nicolock vs. Cambridge, the “battle” is really just about which dream you want to build.
Ready to Start Building?
At 9 Brothers Building Supply, we carry both Nicolock and Cambridge because we believe you deserve the best of both worlds. Whether you’re paving a simple path or crafting a full-blown outdoor retreat, our team is here to help you choose the right materials and design the space you’ll love for years to come.
Stop by our Brentwood, East Setauket, or Riverhead locations to see the products in person.
Not sure which to choose? Let’s talk. Your dream backyard begins with the right foundation (literally).
Nicolock vs. Cambridge? It’s not a competition. It’s a choice, and at 9 Brothers, you can’t go wrong.
Want help designing your project? Call us, visit us, or bring snacks. We’re ready when you are.
